A Millennial Tradition

Yoshukan Karate is part of a lineage whose teachings were once passed down secretly from generation to generation, like a precious family heirloom. It was only in the 19th century that these disciplines emerged from the shadows to be integrated into Okinawan schools. This knowledge then crossed borders: introduced to Japan in 1922, it reached the United States in 1946, and was established in Canada in 1958, laying the foundation for our current practice.

An Exceptional Martial Journey: Kaicho Earl Robertson

In 1969, Earl Robertson, already a sports enthusiast, discovered Judo. This was the starting point of an impressive martial journey. Over the years, he immersed himself in a multitude of disciplines, including Karate, self-defense, Boxing, Greco-Roman wrestling, Aikido, Iaido, Kobudo, and Kali. His quest for knowledge led him to train with great masters and undertake numerous study trips to Japan.

In 1988, while Earl Robertson was teaching Chito-Ryu, Louise Provencher—already a brown belt in the same style—became his student. This meeting marked the beginning of an unwavering martial collaboration and friendship. Together, they explored new paths, eventually moving toward Yoshukai in 1996.

The Birth and Expansion of Yoshukan

In 2004, drawing on his vast experience, Earl Robertson founded a unique style of karate: Yoshukan. Derived from the Chito-Ryu and Yoshukai lineages, this new style was quickly presented to Karate Canada, which granted it official accreditation.

Following this, Earl Robertson created the Yoshukan Karate Association and opened his first dojo in Montreal alongside Louise Provencher. The association grew rapidly, leading to the opening of many Yoshukan schools across Quebec and Ontario. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic forced most of them to close, and ultimately, the Yoshukan Karate-do at the Académie Sportive de Montréal became the main anchor point for the association.

A New Chapter for the Yoshukan Karate Association

In 2024, the association established a reinforced structure to carry its vision into the future:

• Kancho Louise Provencher became the leader of the Yoshukan style, responsible for the association’s operations and direction.
• Renshi Rob Kilanowicz, as Technical Director, oversees the dissemination of Yoshukan’s vast technical repertoire.
• An Advisory Committee of Experts (Shihan Z. Violoni, C. Mayer, O. Gojak, and M. Bauernberger) supports this dynamic to train future generations of “champions for life.”