Traditional Karate Center - Matawan Gojukan (TKC Dojo)

Traditional Karate Center - Matawan Gojukan (TKC Dojo) offers Pre Karate - Ninja for ages 3 to 6, Pre Karate - Samurai for ages 6 to 11, IKGA Karatedo / Gojukan for ages 7 to senior citizen, and Olympic Karate for ages 5 and up. The program includes active listening, basic core karate elements, kumite, authentic traditional Japanese Goju-Ryu Karatedo, and Olympic Karate action.

Programs

• Pre Karate - Ninja — ages 3 ~ 6 · Fun, first Karate experience for active listening, energetic kids. Structured as fun, skillful, and physically engaging.
• Pre Karate - Samurai — ages 6 ~ 11 · Very positive, core karate builder. Teaching basic, core elements of 'real karate' (IKGA). Training becomes more detailed and challenging. Kumite (fighting) is a core element for these ages.
• IKGA Karatedo / Gojukan (IKGA) — ages 7 ~ senior citizen · Build mind, body & spirit in authentic, traditional, Japanese Goju-Ryu Karatedo (IKGA) curriculum. Ideal for all students; no experience required.
• Olympic Karate — ages 5+ · Fun, energetic, full body workout with lots of Olympic Karate action.

At a glance

• Ages: 3–18 years old
• Facility hours: Open today 09:00 am – 12:00 pm

About the provider

The program’s founder and Master Instructor is Michael Buttermark. The leadership team also includes Torsten "TJ" Johnson, Sensei; Konstantin Ozerinzky, Sensei and Medical Doctor; and Gianna Buttermark, Senpai. The mission statement is: "Build Strength, Confidence and Character at Every Age."

New students get one free week followed by 1 month of karate classes for $50 with new uniform included. Fall 2026 thru Spring 2027 schedule is in effect. Kids may also join Olympic sport training according to their ability. Teens and adults enroll directly in IKGA.

Last updated October 29, 2026.