Shidoshi Sean Schenker Named "USA-IFK Chairman of the Board"

On January 1st, 2020, Shihan Michael Monaco (8th Dan), President and Founder of USA-IFK Kyokushin, announced the appointment of Shidoshi Sean Schenker as the new Chairman of the USA-IFK Board. A long-time martial artist and leader, Shidoshi Schenker brings over 35 years of experience in Kyokushin and other traditional martial arts, along with a strong reputation for coaching, mentoring, and organizational leadership.

Earlier this week, Shihan Monaco released a formal statement:

“It gives me great pleasure to announce Shidoshi Sean Schenker as USA-IFK Chairman of the Board, beginning January 1st, 2020. Shidoshi Schenker comes to us with over 35 years in martial arts. He is a long-time practitioner of many arts, including Kyokushin Karate, with many years of training under the legendary Soshu Shigeru Oyama, Sensei Frank Clark, and Shihan Mike Skinner. In this new role, he will work closely with Sensei Dave Sheets (USA-IFK Technical Director) and the USA-IFK Strategy Team to help grow and guide the next generation of the USA-IFK.”

In addition to his long martial arts journey, Shidoshi Schenker is the head instructor of Fighting Spirit Karate (FSK) in Gardiner, New York. His dojo is one of the largest in the USA-IFK, serving over 250 students and producing nationally recognized athletes. In 2019, he and his coaching team led a group of elite semi-contact teen fighters to gold-medal success at the British Open in London, a major achievement for the USA-IFK.

Many members of our community also know Shidoshi Schenker as the tournament director of the popular “Battle on the Boardwalk,” held annually in Atlantic City. The event continues to grow in both size and reputation each year.

Upon accepting his new role, Shidoshi Schenker said:

“I am deeply humbled, honored, and grateful to have been asked to take on this leadership role within the IFK. First, a sincere thank you to Shihan Monaco, Shihan David Pickthall, Hanshi Steve Arneil, and all the USA-IFK and IFK Fight Affiliate dojos for their belief and endorsement. To say this is a lifelong dream is simply an understatement. The IFK is an extension of both my past and my present, and I am thrilled for the opportunities it will continue to offer students and practitioners of Budo around the world — both on and off the mat.”

We look forward to continued growth under Shidoshi Schenker’s leadership as USA-IFK continues to build on its mission of excellence in Kyokushin Karate.

OSU!