About Us

Mission Statement:

We at Ichiban Karate firmly believe that learning and living karate-do can help each student attain their maximum potential in mind, body and spirit. We are dedicated to upholding the standards established by the Saito-ha Traditional Karate Federation International and are committed to the instruction of karate-do with the utmost integrity and understanding for all students.

We strive to teach our students all aspects of one type of Budo, karate-do, or "Empty Hand Way". In its broad sense, Budo means "martial way". This includes not only the more commonly recognized techniques of blocks, punches and kicks, but also falling, tumbling, and jumping. Central to all the techniques is Self Defense. We also teach releases from grabs, breaking techniques and pressure points. Our system teaches all students, no matter their age or skill level, to be able to defend themselves.

The "do" or "way" part of karate-do also plays a critical role in all aspects of our teaching. The "do" refers to the character building features of the Martial Arts: self confidence, empathy, commitment and humility. We seek to inspire every student to learn and grow in their own way so they may reach their maximum potential in mind, body and spirit.

Instructors

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Dwight Grover Sensei

Dwight Grover Kyoshi

Dwight Kyoshi is owner and Chief Instructor of Ichiban Karate. He has been teaching karate for over 35 years. He has won numerous National Championship titles and several World Cup Championship titles. Dwight Kyoshi currently holds a sixth degree black belt from the Shito-Ryu Traditional Karate Federation International.

He started his karate teaching career in Northern Virginia. He taught in Reston and in Ashburn Virginia from 1995-2009 before starting Ichiban Karate.

He has taught martial arts classes at The Auburn School in Herndon, Virginia as part of their physical fitness program.

Dwight Kyoshi is a member of the Traditional Karate-Do Federation International Saito-ha Shito-Ryu Shihan Kai and is currently the Chief Instructor for Saito-ha Shito-Ryu Karate-do in the State of Virginia.

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Marita Grover Sensei

Marita Sensei has been teaching for over 10 years. She holds multiple National, International and World Cup Championship titles. Marita Sensei currently holds a third degree black belt from the Shito-Ryu Traditional Karate Federation International. She holds certifications as an Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Coach, Member of the Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) and a USA-NKF Coach. She served as Head Coach for our Competition Team.

Marita Sensei is currently residing in Illinois and works as Registered Behavior Technician. She is also obtaining her teaching degree with specialization in Special Education.