Shido-Kan Karate of Mahwah Information

Shido-kan Karate of Mahwah offers traditional martial arts instruction in the Shido-kan style of Okinawan Shorin-ryu Karate-do ("empty hand way") which originated from the islands of Okinawa, Japan more than 600 years ago. Head Instructor, Sensei Mitch Cooperman, 5th Dan, is a two-time National AAU kobudo (weapons) champion who has studied for over 15 years with Sensei Dave Senak, 7th Dan and Sensei Mike Senak, 6th Dan. He has been privileged to receive instruction and promotions from Hanshi Katsuya Miyahira, 10th Dan and President of the Okinawan Shorin-ryu Karate-do Association, and his most senior student, Hanshi Seikichi Iha, 10th Dan, the highest ranking Okinawan master residing in the United States. A distinguished high school athlete in track and field, setting high school records in pole vaulting, Sensei Mitch also coached high school track and field for many years after his 4 year commitment to the United States Navy and prior to his karate study. Sensei Mitch's wife, Judy, has also studied Japanese and Okinawan karate for over 20 years. Sensei Mitch and Judy Cooperman live in Mahwah, NJ, have three children (Samantha (26), Daniel (21) and Jackie (12) and one grandson (2yrs). Sensei Mitch and Judy each have established banking careers as a residential mortgage specialist and wealth advisor to successful individuals and families respectively. Judy now devotes all of her time to Shido-kan Karate of Mahwah.