About
The K.I.C.K. Crew offers preschool, elementary, and teen karate classes. Preschool K.I.C.K. Crew focuses on fundamental movement skills, listening comprehension, basic karate etiquette, coordination, balance, focus, following directions, and respect. Elementary K.I.C.K. Crew emphasizes discipline, focus, perseverance, practical self-defense skills, powerful stances and strikes, goal-setting, respect, integrity, and self-control. Teen K.I.C.K. Crew focuses on leadership, mental fortitude, real-world application, complex techniques, advanced sparring strategies, physical conditioning, and confidence.
Programs
- Preschool K.I.C.K. Crew — Ages 3–4 · Focuses on fundamental movement skills, listening comprehension, basic karate etiquette, coordination, balance, focus, following directions, and respect.
- Elementary K.I.C.K. Crew — Ages 5–12 · Emphasizes discipline, focus, perseverance, practical self-defense skills, powerful stances and strikes, goal-setting, respect, integrity, and self-control.
- Teen K.I.C.K. Crew — Ages 13+ · Focuses on leadership, mental fortitude, real-world application, complex techniques, advanced sparring strategies, physical conditioning, and confidence.
- Adult Karate & Self-Defense — Traditional karate for adults to master Goju-Ryu fundamentals, build stamina and agility, improve fitness, master practical self-defense, and relieve stress.
At a glance
- Ages: 3–18 years old
- General schedule: Structured into three age-appropriate levels: Preschool (ages 3–4), Elementary (ages 5–12), and Teen (ages 13+).
About the provider
The program was founded by Shihan Vassie Naidoo in January 1991 as K.I.C.K., and the move to Santa Monica Blvd marked the official launch of The K.I.C.K. Crew in 2025. The leadership team includes Shihan Vassie Naidoo, Chief Instructor and 8th Dan, and Senpai John Dean, Youth Program Director. The program is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is described as a safe, encouraging community for Westside youth and families. Sponsored slots and scholarship tracks are available for families experiencing financial constraints.
Students remove their shoes and bow as they enter the training area. Instructors provide hands-on guidance for beginners. A free trial week/pass is offered. Parents may inquire confidentially about sponsorship, hardship, scheduling, and enrollment.
What families say
“My daughter has been a part of this dojo for 10 years, we love it! Sen-sei Vassie is an amazing man. They are all family to us.” — Wendy M. Dojo Parent
“The thing I love most about being a part of the dojo community is that it IS a community. It is a place to learn, but it is fun and feels like family. I have learned so much... especially about respect and discipline. This helps me at school because you have to have a lot of focus and show respect to people around you. The dojo has helped me learn a good balance of fun and focus.” — Mia Youth Student
Last updated October 6, 2026.
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