Michael O’Brien

Nidan (2nd degree black belt)

Michael began training in Shotokan Karate in 1990 in Washington State and joined SKA in 2000 at the Saratoga California Dojo led by Craig Hamman.  He started training at the Sacramento Dojo in 2003, earned his black belt in 2017 and promoted to Nidan rank in 2019.  In 2021 Michael accepted the Lead instructor role at the Sacramento Dojo from an exceptional Yodan (4th degree black belt), Walt Branam, who began instructing at the Sacramento SKA dojo in 1979.  Walt was instrumental in the education for promotion of many SKA black belts including Michael.

Tom Tseng

Nidan (2nd degree black belt)

Tom began training at the SKA Sacramento Dojo in 2002 under the dojo founder, Walt Branam. Tom was promoted to Shodan in 2010 and Nidan in 2016. Tom was born in Taiwan and lived in Los Angeles when his family first immigrated here.  Tom is an alumnus of Cal Berkeley.”

Matt Curtis

Nidan (2nd degree black belt)

Matt began training at the Sacramento Dojo in 2003.  With the hard training and expert instruction provided by Walt Branam, the dojo’s founder, Matt promoted to Shodan in 2010 and to Nidan in 2013.

Craig Stephens

Yodan (4th degree black belt)

Craig started training Shotokan Karate in 1979 with France Borka in Auburn California.  He earned his black belt in 1982.  In 1998 Craig joined the Sacramento Dojo led by Walt Branam.  With Mr. Branam’s guidance Craig promoted to Sandan (third degree black belt) in 1999 and ultimately Yodan (fourth degree black belt) in 2006.  Craig leads black and brown belt practice Saturday mornings at the El Dorado Hills location.