Michael O’Brien

Sandan (3rd degree black belt)

Michael began training in Shotokan Karate in 1990 in Washington State and joined SKA in 2000 at the Saratoga California Dojo.  He earned his black belt in 2017, promoted to Nidan rank in 2019 and to Sandan rank in 2025. 

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.

Cindy Mosher

Nidan (2nd degree black belt)

Cindy began training at the Sacramento Dojo in 2005.  Another exceptional black belt student of Walt Branam, the dojo’s founder, Cindy promoted to Shodan in 2008 and to Nidan in 2013. Cindy previously trained in Taekwondo where she earned her 3rd degree blackbelt.

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.