Welcome to the Columbia Goju-Ryu Karate Club

Founded in 1985, we're one of the oldest clubs on campus!

• • No prior experience needed!
• • Welcoming undergraduate and graduate students!
• • Prior experience martial artists are welcome and encouraged to compete with us!

Columbia University Goju Karate Club is one of the oldest martial arts clubs on campus. Over the years, we have produced many black belts and even Senseis. Today, we continue to welcome students, faculty, and alumni to join us in our dojo.

Founded by Sensei Bonnie Baker, who successfully ran the club for over 30 years, and later by Sensei Tito Valentine, the club is currently run by their successor Sensei Laki (Latinka Laki Djokovic) - a black belt in ShotoKan and 4th degree black belt in Goju Ryu Karate.

Each week, we train in karate forms, self-defense, and sparring. We actively compete in katas and sparring every year, with many students winning 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in competitions. We often host guest seminars to expand our knowledge and martial arts skills. In our class setting, every individual receives personal attention from the instructor, and dojo brothers and sisters always support each other's improvement.

Our members range from beginners to experienced martial artists, offering everyone the opportunity to find challenges and progress at their own level. Whether you're a beginner wanting to learn self-defense or an experienced karate-ka seeking further training, our dojo welcomes you. Here is how you can join.

We look forward to meeting you in class!

Membership

For Newcomers

• • Come any time and try our one free class
• • Come dressed in comfortable workout clothes

To Become a Club Member

• • Membership dues and registrations – click here
• • We practice in white traditional karate gi. More details when you join the club!