We grow better together...
The Budokai Team
Who We Are
Jeff Hutchings
Founder & Cheif Instructor
Sensei Jeff has been training in traditional Shotokan Karate for nearly 40 years. He holds an Instructor and Examiner certification through the World Japan Karate Association (WJKA) and is an affiliate instructor with the World Combat Association. He also sits on the Board of directors for the WJKA, and serves as the official representative for Canada and the United States. Sensei Jeff holds Dan ranks from the NKA (NL Karate Association), WJKA Canada, and WJKA HQ.
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Ron Thompson
Senpai, Assistant Instructor
Senpai Ron comes to us with has 25+ years of Karate experience, and is eager to assist all Karateka on their journey. He started Shotokan training under NKA Sensei Joe Gillies, at age 15. He practiced Kenpo Karate under Sensei Dave Jackman, and practiced Shotokan Karate in Corner Brook NL under Sensei Felix and Ivan Baker. Over the past 15 years combined he has been training in Shotokan with Sensei Dr. David Bell, Paul Bell of MUN and Ern Howell of MUN and Phoenix Dojos. Ron has also trained with Sensei Bruce Lee (St. John's), Sensei Wayne Lee (Goulds) and Sensei Brian Power of Power Karate Academy.
Gilbert Walsh
Senpai, Assistant Instructor
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Renée Robichaud
Assistant Instructor
Renée started her Karate journey in 2019 with Power Karate Academy (PKA). She is a member of PKA, BudokaiNL and WJKA. Renée has a background in Biology and Adaptive Fitness, and her focus is on teaching students who have diverse abilities, including students from the neurodiverse population, students with injuries, or late starters. Her interests include applied kata, predictive reaction, and inclusive approaches to martial arts training.
Peter Psathas
Assistant Instructor
Peter is a 1st kyu working towards Shodan. He has been training for over 7 years and has competed in local and national tournaments, including winning several medals at the highest level. Peter has a natural ability to teach Karate and share his already vast amount of knowledge.