Business Details
30 Years
experience
Traditional Okinawan Karate Training in St. Albert
Founded in 1996, Desakarate is a dedicated traditional Okinawan karate dojo located in St. Albert, Alberta. Our facility, designed and built by Sensei Manuel deSa, offers 9,000 square feet of space, including a 3,000 square foot matted workout area and specialized classrooms. We provide comprehensive martial arts training for all ages, from our Kickstart program for 4-5 year olds to advanced kobudo (traditional Okinawan weapons) instruction. Our curriculum emphasizes not only physical skill but also character development, instilling confidence and discipline through structured goal achievement.With a strong focus on community engagement, we host annual charity events and offer outreach programs in Sturgeon County. Our instructors, including internationally recognized Black Belts, bring decades of experience and direct lineage to Okinawan karate masters. We maintain rigorous standards through bi-annual Black Belt testing and a leadership training program that empowers students to become instructors and community leaders. Our facility's year-round operation allows flexible scheduling and personalized attention to each student's progress.
Services
Traditional Karate
Kobudo Training
Ladies Self-Defense
Kickstart Program
Bully Defense
Black Belt Preparation
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer 28+ years of experience in traditional Okinawan karate instruction
- Our 9,000 sq ft facility is specifically designed for martial arts training
- We provide specialized programs for children starting at age 4
- Our instructors include 8th degree Black Belt Sensei Manuel deSa
- We maintain direct lineage connections to Okinawan karate masters
Services
Traditional Karate
Our core karate program teaches Uechi-Ryu techniques through structured curriculum. Students develop physical fitness, self-discipline, and defensive skills while progressing through belt ranks. Classes emphasize traditional forms, sparring, and character development for ages 4 and up.
Kobudo Training
Traditional Okinawan weapons instruction covers bo staff, nunchaku, and sai. Certified instructors teach safe handling and historical techniques while maintaining martial arts discipline. Classes available for advanced students seeking to expand their martial arts knowledge.
Kickstart Program
Specialized classes for 4-5 year olds introduce basic karate techniques and discipline. Our curriculum builds motor skills, focus, and confidence through age-appropriate activities. Sessions run seasonally with small class sizes for personalized attention.
Ladies Self-Defense
Practical self-defense workshops teach situational awareness and protective techniques. Participants learn confidence-building strategies and physical defense methods in supportive environment. Courses available for both members and non-members with flexible pricing options.
Bully Defense
Targeted program for children aged 6-12 teaching conflict resolution and self-protection. Curriculum focuses on verbal de-escalation, assertiveness techniques, and safe physical responses. Seasonal classes emphasize building confidence and personal boundaries.
People
Manuel A. deSa
Owner, 8th Degree Black Belt
Sensei Manuel deSa has taught traditional Okinawan karate since 1996. A student of Grand Master Kiyohide Shinjo, he combines martial arts expertise with child development experience as former childcare counselor.
Janet Vranas
7th Degree Black Belt
Sensei Janet Vranas brings decades of martial arts experience to our Cardiff and Camilla programs. As Nanadan Black Belt, she specializes in advanced techniques and student mentorship through St. Albert's karate community.
Noah deSa
4th Degree Black Belt
Instructor Noah deSa coordinates youth programs and camps. With Yondan certification, he focuses on developing young martial artists through structured training and leadership opportunities in St. Albert's dojo.
Drake Ward
4th Degree Black Belt
Sensei Drake Ward teaches children, teen, and adult karate classes. His Yondan certification reflects extensive training in traditional techniques and modern instructional methods at Alberta's premier martial arts school.
Jeff Bazinet
6th Degree Black Belt
Shihan Jeff Bazinet provides advanced instruction for teen and adult students. With Rokudan ranking, he emphasizes technical precision and traditional karate philosophy in St. Albert's training programs.
Questions
What age can children start karate training?
Our Kickstart program accepts children as young as 4 years old. We offer specialized classes for different age groups to ensure appropriate skill development.
Do you offer self-defense training for adults?
Yes, we provide Ladies Self-Defense workshops and regular adult karate classes that include practical self-defense techniques for real-world situations.
Are there opportunities for competition?
We host annual Kata/Kumite tournaments and participate in regional events. Competition training is available for students interested in competitive martial arts.
What should I wear for my first class?
Beginners can wear comfortable workout clothing. We provide traditional karate uniforms for purchase and have rental options available for initial classes.
How often are Black Belt testing sessions held?
Black Belt examinations occur twice yearly. Students must receive instructor invitation and complete required training before participating in formal testing.
Do you offer community programs?
Yes, we operate outreach programs in Sturgeon County including after-school classes at Camilla School and evening sessions in Cardiff for local residents.
Reviews (6)
Julie Davidson
Dec 28, 2021
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I'm shocked there aren't more reviews. This program and the people who run it, have been absolutely wonderful to my family. All three of my boys, including my husband, joined karate and we are so glad they did!!
Stacey Abdella
Oct 16, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
I have been a part of this Dojo for over 20 years and I have never been disappointed! The best Martial Arts training around with an incredible Sensei, many great Instructors and a wonderful family atmosphere!
I have been a part of this Dojo for over 20 years and I have never been disappointed! The best Martial Arts training around with an incredible Sensei, many great Instructors and a wonderful family atmosphere!
Donovan Blake
Aug 24, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
All the dojo staff are truly wonderful, and they care. They have excellent programs and have been a great influence to my kids with learning, discipline, confidence, and fitness. (and its not just kids, there are lots of adult classes as well).
All the dojo staff are truly wonderful, and they care. They have excellent programs and have been a great influence to my kids with learning, discipline, confidence, and fitness. (and its not just kids, there are lots of adult classes as well).
Michael Tang
Mar 19, 2021
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Great school!! Patience with kids! My child has been at this school for 5 yrs! Great program and staff. Also have weapons programs to keep children engaged and learning new material!
Josh Henry
Oct 28, 2020
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I can't say enough great things about this place. We have done 2 summer camps, 2 birthdays and my daughter has now joined. The teachers are excellent and so calm and presented with all of the kids. I highly recommend this place.
Benjamin Muir
Jul 28, 2020
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
I have been a student here for nearly 7 years. I can not say enough good things about this place. I highly recommend it for anyone who is even remotely interested in learning karate.
I have been a student here for nearly 7 years. I can not say enough good things about this place. I highly recommend it for anyone who is even remotely interested in learning karate.
