Dojo Instructors

Oscar Silvera, Karate Sensei

Oscar Silvera, Sensei is the Dojo's Hombu Cho (Headquarters Director) and Chief Instructor in Karate of the International Budo Ryokukai in Michigan. A direct student of Katzumi Niikura, Sensei; 8th Dan in Karate & 5th Dan in Aikido, founder of the International Budo Ryokukai.
Silvera Sensei's dedication to martial arts is evident through his diverse training background. Since embarking on his martial arts journey in 1984, he has explored various disciplines, including Iaido, Aikido, Taekwondo, Judo, Jiu Jitsu, Kudo, Kobudo, Krav Maga, Tai chi, Kickboxing, Kung fu, and many others. This extensive experience has shaped him into a well-rounded martial artist with a deep understanding of different combat styles.

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Antonio Garcia, Judo Sensei

Antonio Garcia, Sensei has decades of experience and expertise in the art of Judo. As a dedicated practitioner and instructor, he has honed his skills under the guidance of renowned masters, embodying the principles of judo both on and off the mat. With a passion for teaching and a commitment to his students' development, Antonio Sensei continues to inspire and empower judoka of all levels on their journey to mastery. His unwavering dedication to the art of judo has earned him the respect and admiration of the martial arts community.

Jose Feliz, Aikido Sensei

Jose Feliz, Sensei embarked on his journey in Aikido back in 1991 under the inspiring guidance of Katsumi Niikura Sensei at the esteemed International Budo Ryokukai in Sterling Heights, MI. With dedication and perseverance, he attained the prestigious Shodan Rank in 1993, followed by the enriching achievement of Nidan Rank in 1995.
Driven by his passion for sharing the art, he eagerly commenced teaching Saturday classes at Hombu Dojo in 2011, igniting a flame of enthusiasm within him. In parallel, he began a journey of inner harmony and balance through Yang Style Tai Chi in 1997, guided by the inspiring mentorship of Sifu Robert Brown at the School of Chinese Martial Arts in Berkley, MI.
With dedication and devotion, he completed his Tai Chi training under the esteemed Sifu Thomas Smith at the sacred grounds of the Shaolin Temple in Westland, MI, embodying the essence of this ancient practice.

Brian Mellinger, Kudo Sensei

Brian Mellinger, Sensei is a dedicated practitioner of Kudo Karate, having trained extensively in Japan under the guidance of Soke founder Ozuma. With a passion for martial arts and a commitment to excellence, Brian has honed his skills in both striking and grappling, embodying the spirit of Kudo in every aspect of his training. Known for his discipline and determination, he continues to push himself to new heights, seeking mastery in the art of Kudo Karate.

Steve Stanley, Kali Guro

Steve Stanley embarked on his martial arts journey in 1984 under the tutelage of Karl Scott. Initially, he delved into kung fu and aikido training guided by Sensei Karl Scott. Later on, he furthered his understanding of aikido under Sensei Takashi Kushida and explored training in various Japanese jujutsu schools. Additionally, he engaged in brief training sessions in Western boxing, wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), and judo, primarily through semester classes at the University of Michigan.

Continuing his martial arts exploration, Steve briefly studied Aikijutsu before discovering Shorinji Kempo, where he dedicated 20 years of training under Sensei Gary Dolce, achieving the rank of Nidan. Towards the conclusion of his tenure in Shorinji Kempo, he encountered a Kali school and promptly joined under Tuhon Justin Shaffner, attaining the rank of Mataas na Guro in Pekiti-Tirsia-Kali in 2022. Presently, Steve is actively engaged in training sessions for Kudo, Judo, and Kali.

Rates

The enrollment fee is $100.00 for an individual or $150.00 for a family membership, and it's a one-time charge for the duration of your active membership.

Monthly dues are $129, payable on either the 1st or 15th of the month, depending on your enrollment date.

For additional members, the following discounts apply:

$15 off the second member, resulting in $114 per month.
$30 off the third member, resulting in $99 per month.
$45 off the fourth member, resulting in $84 per month.
$60 off the fifth member, resulting in $69 per month.

Martial Arts memberships are six months long and include uniform(s). There's no need to re-enroll after the membership expires; it continues at its original rate for as long as you wish to remain a member.

For participation in Weapon and Advanced Training classes, a membership upgrade is required, with an additional attendance fee of $30/month. This upgraded membership allows students to engage in both programs if desired.

How important is parental support in martial arts? – Thank You Mom!

“A family’s support is fundamental for kid’s success. One of the best things you can do for your child is to offer them a healthy and safe environment where they can develop a strong character though hard work, and showing them that they can count on you to guide them to face any challenges they may have.”

Human beings are social individuals by nature who live in society, and we all like to know that we have someone to trust and count on for support.

In our childhood no one knows us better than our parents and family; they are the one who we trust the most. When a child knows that they can rely on their parents for guidance and support it provides the child with more freedom to be brave and take on challenges that will promote improvements in all areas.

Every child has a different goal that they are trying to reach though martial arts. Some of them are looking for more discipline, where as, some others are simply looking to exercise. Whatever their goals are, for example, listening skills, coordination, staying focused, working in a group, self confidence, self defense, or how to deal with a bully; it becomes much easier to accomplish these things in a supportive environment.

That is why when parents and coaches team up it becomes extremely important for the child’s development and achievement of the main specific goal for that child in martial arts. The exchange of information will allow parents and coaches to have a better understanding of the methods used to accomplish the desired goal, and to evaluate results and correct mistakes. Professors and Coaches work with the kids on the mats using special training methods to strengthen their bodies, mind, and spirit. Parents work with the kids at home encouraging good behavior and success.

We would like to say thank you to all the parents who support our Future Champions on a daily basis because the parent’s participation is so important. Especially to the moms who work hard to bring their kids to class everyday. They always have something nice and supportive to say.

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In this past Olympics in London, Proctor & Gamble did an outstanding campaign thanking all moms who support their kids in sports. We highly recommend watching these amazing videos that show great examples of hard work, perseverance, fighting against all odds, and never giving up mentality. Like Natalie Hawkins, mom of Gabrielle Douglas, who had to “learn how to let go”, or Lori Jones, mom of Lolo Jones, who passed on to her daughter the “keep fighting attitude”.

There are several reasons why training at the Japanese Martial Arts Academy (JMAA) can be a rewarding experience. Here are some potential advantages:

Authentic Japanese Martial Arts: JMAA specializes in teaching authentic Japanese martial arts, providing you with an opportunity to learn and immerse yourself in traditional techniques, philosophies, and cultural aspects of martial arts.
Qualified Instructors: At JMAA, you can benefit from experienced and knowledgeable instructors who have achieved black-belt status or higher. Their expertise ensures proper guidance, skill development, and a safe training environment.
Diverse Martial Arts Programs: JMAA offers a variety of martial arts disciplines to choose from, allowing you to explore different styles and find the one that suits your interests and goals. This diversity enables you to develop a well-rounded skill set.
Physical Fitness and Health Benefits: Training at JMAA provides an excellent opportunity to improve your physical fitness, strength, flexibility, and coordination. Regular practice can enhance cardiovascular health, promote weight management, and increase overall body awareness.
Mental and Emotional Development: Martial arts training goes beyond physical aspects and also focuses on mental and emotional growth. It can foster discipline, self-control, patience, and resilience. Martial arts can also help reduce stress, enhance focus, and boost self-confidence.
Sense of Community: JMAA often fosters a supportive and inclusive community of martial arts practitioners. Engaging with fellow students who share a passion for martial arts can create lasting friendships, provide motivation, and contribute to a positive learning environment.
Self-Defense Skills: Learning martial arts at JMAA equips you with practical self-defense techniques and strategies. These skills can enhance your personal safety, confidence in unfamiliar situations, and the ability to protect yourself and others, if necessary.

Ultimately, choosing to train at the Japanese Martial Arts Academy offers an opportunity for personal growth, cultural exploration, physical fitness, and the development of valuable skills that can positively impact various aspects of your life.

The Japanese Martial Arts Academy, LLC proudly holds a prestigious membership in the International Budo Ryokukai of Japan. Our academy is privileged to be under the expert guidance and tutelage of Katsumi Niikura, Sensei. Sensei Niikura is a highly accomplished martial artist, holding the rank of 8th Dan in Karate and 5th Dan in Aikido. He is also the esteemed founder of the International Budo Ryokukai. To witness Sensei Niikura's remarkable skills and expertise, please watch the captivating video below:

Have a Question?

Would you like more information on our Martial Arts programs offered? Please contact us with your questions or call us at (734) 447-3000

Women's Self-Defense Seminar

Learn to defend yourself! The Women's Self-Defense Seminars are designed to teach physical and psychological self-defense skills to women and transgender folks of all skill levels and backgrounds.

The Women Self-Defense Seminar is perfect for mothers and daughters, teenagers, young ladies heading off to college soon, and any female (for ages 12 & up) who would like to feel more confident in recognizing, avoiding, and defending against violent attacks.

You'll Learn:

How to escape from grabs and chokes
How to block and strike powerfully
How to set—and keep—boundaries
How to stand your ground
How to use pressure points to safely dissuade or disable an attacker
How to execute basic takedowns and fight while on the ground
…and much more!

FAQ's about The Women Self-Defense Seminars

What should I wear? Just wear comfortable clothes and if you can remember please bring a heavier-weight sweatshirt.
Am I too old to learn self-defense? No. Anyone at any age can learn self-defense. Our students in the seminars range in age from 12 up into their 60s.
Will I get hurt? Although we will be training for real-life scenarios and learning fundamental protection techniques - the curriculum structure, practice procedures, and instruction manner all ensure safety first.
How long is the Seminar & what is the cost? The Self-Defense Seminar is two hours long and it costs $40.
When are the Seminars taught? The seminars are held on Sunday evenings from 5:00 - 7:00 pm. And, are scheduled every month.
Do you offer any other self-protection training for women? We teach individual self-defense lessons, do special classes for businesses & groups, and have ongoing weekly self-defense programs for those looking for even more in-depth training. If you have any questions about the Self-Defense Seminars or private instruction, please call the Academy at (734) 447-3000

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Testimonials

I have trained in Shotokan Karate for several years and a few other martial arts. I have had some very good Senseis and some not so good. In all my years I have never been taught to such a degree of understanding as I am now receiving from Sensei Oscar Silvera. His knowledge and understanding of the martial arts are way beyond anything that I have ever been taught and have ever seen. I wish I had been been schooled by him in my younger days but as a wise man said, It is never too late.

John T.

Livonia, MI

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Dear Sensei Oscar,
My husband and I with my son has visited and observed some Karate classes (including Tae Kwon Do) around my place, closer than yours, and we found out that no instructor was as good as you, Oscar Sensei.

We investigated a lot about if there are convenient location, reasonable tuition and good quality of practice (that is the most important), and we spend many hours before deciding what we should do here...

My husband and I have no choice other than you as his Sensei to practice with considering with Karate technique even if the location is too faraway from us!
And I would like to make sure that my son can be strong enough to wear a black belt during our 3 more years staying in U.S.!
We are looking forward to see you soon.

Mrs. Suzuki
Novi, Michigan

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Sensei Oscar and all of the instructors offer a wealth of expertise with everyone bringing something unique to the mix. This is a very friendly club and it is a pleasure to train there especially with so many times available for training.‎

Richard
Livonia, Michigan

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Nice, clean facility. Oscar is a great teacher and very friendly with everyone!
My 5 year old daughter absolutely loves learning Karate!

Diana
Dearborn, MIchigan

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My daughter and I train together here at Silverado Nippon Karate and really appreciate the personal attention given to each student. Sensei Oscar takes everyones development very seriously and personally. Training is always challenging and enjoyable. We will continue to train here for a long time!!!

Paul

Livonia, Michigan

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Sensei Oscar and his staff are very thorough and provide a wide range of both technical and practical training. I am very impressed with the individual attention Sensei provides to all of his students. His goal is obviously to bring the student to the height of their own ability and does not try to fit everyone in the same mold.

Rick

Livonia, Michigan

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Sensei Oscar and all the black-belt instructors that assist him are great teachers. You will get in shape, learn self-defense and also receive insights into the deeper meaning of traditional martial arts. It is also possible to train 6 days per week. The kicking class on Saturday morning is phenomenal, and so are the other days when different aspects of Shotokan Karate-do are emphasized. The place is great for kids as well as adults trying to get back into shape. Love this dojo. Dan O, Livonia.‎

Thank You

Domo arigato

どうもありがとう

Thank you for your request.

Your registration form has been submitted successfully and you will be contacted if we have any questions about your registration.

Please feel free to call us at (734) 447-300

Yours in the Martial Arts,

Sincerely,

Sensei Oscar Silvera

In the meantime, we invite you to learn more about our Oscar Silvera's Karate FAQs

Dojo Videos

Bunkai Seminar

oscar silvera karate bunkai Improve your knowledge and skills for the kata applications.

What is Bunkai?

Bunkai, literally meaning "analysis" or "disassembly", is a term used in Japanese martial arts referring to process of analysing kata and extracting fighting techniques from the movements of a "form" (kata).

What is a Kata?

Kata are small, structured practice routines or protocols. Through physical practice their pattern becomes second nature, done with little conscious attention. Kata are typically for learning. Kata is considered to be the soul of Karate.

Why Bunkai?

Unfortunately; it is widely interpreted that the basic techniques in a kata as only simple blocks or simple strikes.

Did you know?

Many techniques is a Kata contain all the hallmark of signature basic to brutal techniques, including atemi-waza (striking), nage-waza (throwing or takedowns), kansetsu-waza (joint-locks & manipulation), shime-waza (choking), ne-waza (ground fighting & submission) and usage of human pressure points.

About Bunkai Seminars:

Are open to any school or martial artist regardless of style, system, or affiliation.
You would have the oppotunity to train and learn effective street self defense drills of the many different levels of bunkai techniques, covering from a simple restrain to causing serious injury.
The classes are done in a safe, supportive and fun environment.

oscar bunkai Have a Question?