Mac Dojo History

In the 40 years the McMaster dojo has been in existence, it has seen four instructors. Sensei Ray Greenway founded the dojo in 1969 and was followed by Sensei Pat Ammendolio. Next came Sensei Frank DeLorenzes and finally our Sensei, Sensei Philip McColl, who has been head of the dojo for 25 years. From day one, the McMaster dojo has been an accomplished club, winning the Higashi Cup (Canadian University and College Karate Championship) in four of its first five years in existence and once again in 1991.

The last decade has seen a tremendous increase in the club's size and Sensei McColl has consistently produced high caliber karate ka. In the fall of 1994, a first for the McMaster dojo occurred; it was represented internationally at the World Karate Championship in Argentina. McMaster contributed four members to the Canadian team. Thanks to the efforts of the Women's Team Kata, the club can boast a gold medal.

In April 1996, Hamilton hosted the second World Karate Championship and this time McMaster cheered on seven members as part of the Canadian Team.

Read more about the head of the McMaster Goju Ryu Karate dojo, Sensei Philip McColl.