Kristyn & Lauren - Young Achievers 2007

It is immediately obvious to everyone at our dojo that each of the kids at West Island Karate is exceptional in his or her own way.  As a prime example of this, two of them were recently recognized at The Chronicle's annual "Young Achievers Gala", an event that highlights the outstanding accomplishments of our youth.  Consequently both students were featured in the corresponding insert of The Chronicle (Nov. 21/07 issue) called "Young Achievers 2007:  A Tribute To 40 Gifted And Talented Young West Islanders".  As you'll read below, these sisters excel in a variety of pursuits and have made significant efforts to help the local community as well as those less fortunate in other parts of the world.  West Island Karate is very proud of both Kristyn and Lauren.  Way to go girls!  Osu!

Lia Calderone - West Island Dojo's First Female Black Belt!
	Here's an article that appeared in The Chronicle on August 23rd, 2006, shortly after Sempai Lia was graded to Shodan (1st dan black belt) and Sempai Pam was graded to 1st Kyu (brown belt / black stripe) by Sensei John.  Congratulations to both!  Well done.  Osu!

Jimmy Galanopoulos - Makes It To Round Of 16 At 2004 World Championships

Our own Sempai Jimmy (Shodan) made it all the way to the round of 16 at the 2004 World Championships held in Isesaki, Japan.  Only a green belt at the time, it was Sempai Jimmy's first experience at this full-contact event which takes place every four years and features some of the world's best Kyokushin Karate practitioners.  Making the top 16 also meant that he finished the highest of any Canadian in the men's category.  West Island Dojo is very proud of Sempai Jimmy's amazing accomplishment.  Congratulations Sempai!  Osu!