Info

The Academy of Karate is a multifaceted martial arts and fitness center, which offers you and your family a very special place to have fun, achieve your goals and learn about the wonderful world of Shotokan Karate and traditional martial arts. We welcome you to take the first step in starting a challenging and rewarding journey that will fascinate and enlighten you for many years. The history of the Academy of Karate begins with Shihan Mehrdad Sadri. Shihan Sadri was the first person to open his school in Glendora, under the name of the Academy of Karate. This location served adults and children, from 1991 until 2000. Both Sensei Hojati and Sensei Claycomb were ardent admirers and students of Shihan Sadri, and both had an affinity toward continuing the name of Academy of Karate, and the traditions that it held dear. They both trained together under Shihan Sadri on many occasions, and became good friends and confidants of one another. For a short time, Sensei Claycomb assisted Sensei Hojati in teaching and managing of his academy, thereby gaining valuable knowledge, and experience in what Sensei Hojati had in mind for a proper karate academy. Both Senseis are known for their excellence in teaching, and for their love of karate and their students. The friendship and camaraderie of the two is a testament to their dedication to each other, and to the goal of helping each other in pursuit of their dream. Sensei Hojati started the World Karate Academy in 1993, and in 1998 relocated his school to his current location in West Hills, California. At about the same time, Sensei Claycomb trained with Shihan Sadri. Due to his ability and knowledge, Shihan Sadri promoted Sensei Claycomb to the rank of first assistant, a position that he served faithfully until the closure of the academy. After the closure of Shihan Sadri's school, and in order to continue the name and tradition of Shihan Sadri, Sensei Hojati changed his school's name to Academy of Karate. The new name brought with it a new style (Shotokan), a new attitude toward progress (quality over quantity), and new style of management (what is best for the student, is best for the school). Now in two locations, the Academy of Karate - West Hills and the Academy of Karate - Duarte, will stand to provide great training in Shotokan karate, Kobudo (Weaponry), and Aerobic (Cardio) Kickboxing. As well as variety of extra-curricular activities, such as Beach Training, Mountain Training, Summer Camps, visits from world-renowned martial artist and coaches. The camaraderie of the two schools will help bring about a higher level of proficiency and will challenge each student and teacher to become better and more effective. Join us and see how wonderful the world of karate can really be.