International Traditional Karate Federation awards Robert Fusaro 8th degree black belt

The International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF) announced it is awarding the level of 8th Degree Black Belt to Mr. Robert Fusaro of Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.A.

In making the announcement the Chairman of the ITKF, Mr. Richard Jorgensen stated, “Sensei Fusaro has been a mentor to thousands of Traditional Karate students throughout the years and has helped build Traditional Karate within his home country, the United States of America. He was the first non-Japanese student to sign up for instruction with the Japan Karate Association and has been completely dedicated and loyal to his training and personal development since the moment he set foot on the path of Traditional Karate-do.”

Mr. Fusaro began his training in 1955 while stationed in Japan during the Korean War. He obtained his first degree black belt in 1959. He also had the privilege of participating in the first Japan Karate Association (JKA) tournament held in Tokyo in 1957. When Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama moved to Los Angeles from Japan in 1961, Mr. Fusaro continued his journey under Sensei Nishiyama’s tutelage.

“He is an outstanding instructor and role model. As the longest training student of the late Sensei Nishiyama, Sensei Fusaro is invaluable to the future growth and development of the ITKF organization. I look forward to working with him in the coming years as we continue to build the legacy of the International Traditional Karate Federation in the manner envisioned by its founding President, the late Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama.” Jorgensen added.

Now in his 70’s, Sensei Fusaro continues to actively train and teach regularly. He is a technical leader within the AAKF – the National Federation of the ITKF in the United States, unselfishly providing his expertise and experience to all who are willing to learn.

Sensei Robert Fusaro also visited Poland at the invitation of the Traditional Karate Federation of Poland. He conducted trainings during annually traditional karate seminars – Gasshuku.