ABOUT US
Sensei Nick Neri
5th dan black belt – Shotokan Karate
Instructor at Monkland Karate for over 30 years
Special needs teacher for over 45 years
With over three decades of experience as a martial arts instructor and more than 45 years as a special needs teacher, Sensei Nick Neri is a dedicated and influential figure in the martial arts community. Holding a 5th-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate, he has taught and mentored countless students at Monkland Karate, guiding them to excel both on and off the dojo floor.
Sensei Nick Neri continues to study and train with Sensei Katsumata (8th dan) on a weekly basis.
His students participate in both regional and international competitions.
In addition to his martial arts expertise, Sensei Nick’s extensive experience in special needs education allows him to connect with students of all backgrounds, creating an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment where every individual can succeed.
Sensei Neri continues to inspire his students, instilling in them the values of discipline, perseverance, and respect that define Shotokan Karate.
Instructor Valentine Stasse
1st dan black belt – Shotokan karate
Instructor at Monkland Karate
Valentine is a dedicated and passionate martial arts instructor with a 1st-grade black belt in Shotokan Karate. As a teacher at Monkland Karate, she combines her strong technical knowledge with a genuine commitment to helping her students grow, not only as martial artists but as individuals.
Before her journey in martial arts, Valentine worked as a space engineer, showcasing her analytical mindset and attention to detail. Now, as a dedicated mother of three boys, she brings a unique perspective to her teaching, balancing her experience as a professional and a parent, while inspiring her students with her resilience and discipline.
Valentine is a firm believer in the power of martial arts to build confidence, focus, and respect, and she strives to create a welcoming environment where students of all ages can develop these qualities.
Instructor John Jo
1st dan black belt – Shotokan karate
Instructor at Monkland Karate
Social worker
Instructor John is a dedicated martial artist and compassionate social worker, currently holding a 1st-grade black belt in Shotokan Karate. As an instructor at Monkland Karate, John combines his technical expertise in martial arts with his deep understanding of human behavior, bringing a unique, empathetic approach to his teaching.
With a background in social work, John is committed to fostering an environment of support, respect, and personal growth for his students. His ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life helps create a dojo where students feel valued and motivated to reach their fullest potential, both in martial arts and in life.
John believes that karate is not just about physical skill, but also about building mental resilience, discipline, and community. His classes are known for their focus on creating a positive, inclusive atmosphere where students can thrive.
Sensei Yutaka Katsumata
8th Grade Black Belt – Shotokan Karate
Chief instructor of AKS
An internationally recognized instructor established in Montreal since more than 30 years, he is a graduate of the Japan Karate Association (JKA) instructor school. He has been a multiple-time champion and finalist in this prestigious organization, including a second place in kata in 1991 and a second place in kumite at an international competition in Okinawa in 2007. He also won the bronze medal at the JKS World Karate Championship on July 28, 2013. He is the Technical Director of the Shotokan Karate Association of Quebec (AKS).
