Traditional Karate-Do Organization Hawaii
TKO Hawaii was established in 2006 by Sensei Aaron Oandasan. We are the Hawaii branch of Traditional Karate-Do Organization (TKO) under head instructor Sensei Jo Mirza based in Chicago, IL, and members of AAU/USA Karate. TKO Hawaii specializes in the traditional Shotokan style of karate. Shotokan training is usually divided into three parts: Kihon (basics), Kata (forms or patterns of moves), and Kumite (sparring). Techniques in kihon and kata are characterized by deep, long stances that provide stability, enable powerful movements, and strengthen the legs. At TKO Hawaii, students learn all of these and also Bunkai (self defense applications) as they advance in their training. Along with learning karate, students also develop good moral character, respect for themselves and others through the dojo kun (dojo precepts).
Sensei Aaron Oandasan
Head Instructor, TKO Hawaii
Sensei Aaron Oandasan has over three decades of experience in training and teaching the art of karate. He began training at the age of six under Shihan Kiyohisa Hirano and earned his black belt at the age of eight. Under the instruction of Shihan Hirano, Sensei Aaron developed a passion for karate and learned valuable life lessons. He began competing nationally in 1990, at the AAU National Championships in Orlando, Florida. Since then, he has attended championship tournaments in Hawai‘i, the mainland, and several foreign countries. He has also held numerous national championship titles.
Internationally, Sensei Aaron competed for the first time in 1995 in Budapest, Hungary, for the Junior World Cup and placed first out of 83 competitors. In 1996, as a member of the U.S. team in South Africa, he became the first World Champion from Hawaii. Since then, he has competed in and won numerous championships. Sensei Aaron has also been one of the Superkids, nominated for Athlete of the Week, and twice honored by the Honolulu City Council. He has done countless interviews, demonstrations at schools, and special events around the island.
Sensei Aaron joined the Traditional Karate-Do Organization (TKO) under head instructor Sensei Jo Mirza in early 2006, and TKO Hawaii opened shortly thereafter. Currently a YonDan (4th degree black belt), Sensei Aaron joins his passion for karate and teaching with his extensive teaching and competition experience. He brings out the maximum potential in each student, while making sure classes are enjoyable.
