Why Choose Dragon Arts Karate?

At Dragon Arts Karate we are committed to working with our students in the spirit of service to promote individual growth and development. All of our instructors are highly trained in both traditional and modern teaching methods. Students have fun and are challenged each class. The environment is positive and friendly. We focus on leadership as one of our primary values, and all students will work towards becoming leaders and eventually teachers,.

Dragon Arts Karate is one of the only Traditional schools in the area, meaning that students learn an ancient art, and the values that accompany it. If students ever move or leave the area, they can often find another Uechi Ryu dojo to continue their training at without interruption.

Unlike many other schools, we are up front about prices, having few extra expenses aside from monthly dues and many free extra events for students and families. We do not use a contract system.

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About Andrea Jackson, Owner and Head Instructor

Sensei Andrea Jackson is a 5th Dan and Master Instructor. She began studying Uechi Ryu Karate at the age of 10 and fell in love with the art immediately.  She has been practicing karate for 27 years, and teaching karate classes for most of that time. Andrea holds several national championship titles including gold medals from the Junior Olympics. She has also competed internationally. She is certified through Okinawa as black belt and Karate Instructor. She has also taught children in a variety of settings, including public schools, summer camps, recreation programs, and various athletic programs. 

Sensei Andrea Jackson's formal education includes an undergraduate degree from Stanford University in East Asian Studies, graduate coursework at the Stanford School of Education in Youth Development, and a professional degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.  She is committed to helping all of her students find success in karate and life.

Benefits of Studying Traditional Karate

Our Style: Uechi Ryu Karate

There are many martial arts styles.  Uechi Ryu Karate is unique.

Uechi Ryu Karate originated in China in the 19th and 20th centuries.  Kanbun Uechi, an Okinawan, studied the style and brought it back to Okinawa, where he taught only a handful of students in secret.  Later, when it became acceptable to openly teach karate, one of his students, Seiyu Shinjo, began teaching to the public, which included military servicemen and women.  My sensei, Alan Dollar, studied with Seiyu Shinjo and continued to train and teach in America.  Seiyu Shinjo's son, Kiyohide Shinjo, who is known as a karate legend throughout Japan, is currently the head of our karate organization. The original Karate Kid movie is based on Uechi Ryu karate.

Uechi Ryu karate is a combination of soft influences from Chinese arts similar to Kung Fu and harder martial arts style, like those seen in mainland Japan.  This styles of martial arts incorporates the best parts of Chinese martial arts and Japanese martial arts.  It is known for the incredible self-defense skills and physical toughness that it develops in those who study it.

Reviews from Parents and Students

"I have seen my son's ability and confidence grow so much since he started 5 years ago. Sensei Andrea is fantastic with the kids! While learning she makes the environment fun and non-threatening."

"My kids love it here."

"My son has become so much more confident now. He has no trouble being in front of a group."

"I've learned to keep going. If you fail you can try again."

"My kids are more active now and are getting better at paying attention."

"My daughter went from a C average to a B average in less than 6 months. She has learned to be much more focused"