News
Welcome Kazoku Karate School!
Congratulations to Kazoku Karate School, located at 800 Bloomfield Avenue, Nutley, NJ. Under the leadership of Mattia Joe, Sensei and Mattia Necole, Sensei Kazoku Karate School has built a welcoming, family-focused environment where students grow in confidence, discipline, and respect.
Specializing in Chito-Ryu Karate-Do and proudly affiliated with USA-ICKF, Inc the school is dedicated to preserving traditional karate while helping students of all ages reach their full potential. We congratulate the instructors, students, and families on their continued success and wish Kazoku Karate School many more years of growth and achievement.
Global Unity and Timeless Tradition: A Milestone Ceremony in Kumamoto, Japan
Japan Representatives from across the world gathered in Kumamoto, Japan, to honor a momentous occasion: the Nidaime Soke 10th Dan ceremony. This international event celebrated not only a significant advancement in rank, but also the enduring spirit of Chito Ryu karate and the global community it continues to inspire.
Among those in attendance was John Anthony Gambino of the United States, and Koukichi Uchiyama, who expressed profound pride in their teacher—a mentor whose guidance and example helped shape his lifelong journey as a karateka.
Gambino Sensei and Uchiyama Sensei offered their heartfelt gratitude to the Chitose family for their many decades of wisdom, kindness, and steadfast dedication to preserving and advancing the art of Chito Ryu Karate Do. Their leadership, he shared, remains a pillar of unity for practitioners around the world.
He also extended warm appreciation to the people of Kumamoto, noting the genuine hospitality and cultural generosity that made the experience truly unforgettable.
“With respect and pride,” Gambino Sensei and Uchiyama Sensei said, “I am honored to have witnessed this historic moment and to stand alongside so many who share a deep love for this art.”
John Anthony Gambino, USA
Historic Celebration in Kumamoto Japan – November 1, 2025
On November 1, 2025, two American instructors, Uchiyama Renshi and Gambino Renshi will travel to Japan to take part in the Nidaime Soke, 10th Dan and Hanshi title Celebration and Ceremony at the Fujisaki Shrine, alongside international representatives from around the world. This extraordinary occasion marks a historical milestone in the legacy of Chitō-ryū Karate-dō. During the ceremony, Nidaime Sōke will receive his highest recognition of rank, honoring the same level once held by his late father, O’Sensei. This rare and deeply meaningful moment reflects both tradition and continuity in the art’s lineage. The event will bring together Okinawan masters, senior instructors, and representatives from several countries. In addition to the ceremony itself, there will be special training sessions, opportunities for international camaraderie, and a variety of cultural activities to commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Reyna Rahaman Earns Rank of Shodan
Date: May 2, 2025
Event: 1st Degree Black Belt Grading
Location: Brookdale Chito Ryu Karate School
On May 2, 2025, Reyna Rahaman stood poised to take on one of the most significant challenges in her martial arts journey: the Black Belt grading. This milestone event was overseen by a distinguished panel of instructors—German Kyoshi (Canada), Gambino Renshi (USA), and Bourque Renshi (Canada)—whose presence underscored the importance and rigor of the occasion.
The grading itself spanned approximately 90 minutes of continuous physical and spiritual testing, demanding not only technical precision but also deep mental fortitude. Reyna met every moment with unwavering focus and determination.
Her journey began at the age of nine, when she first stepped into the world of Chito-Ryu Karate. From the very beginning, Reyna demonstrated a rare commitment to her practice. Despite facing numerous challenges and diversities along the way, she remained loyal to the principles and techniques of her original style. Her perseverance, discipline, and wholehearted effort have now culminated in the well-earned title of Shodan Black Belt.
We are incredibly proud of Reyna’s achievement and the example she sets for her peers. Her story is one of resilience, dedication, and the true spirit of Karate.
Way to persevere, Reyna. We look forward to a long, adventurous journey with you and our Chito-Ryu Karate Family.
God bless you—and all the best in the path ahead.
Congratulations, Michael Rosamilia on your Brown Belt Grading
Date: September 5, 2025
Event: USA-ICKF Brown Belt Grading
Location: Brookdale Chito Ryu Karate School
A huge congratulations to Michael Rosamilia on his successful 3rd Kyu Brown Belt grading on September 5th, 2025! Michael’s dedication to Chito Ryu karate since a young age has truly been exemplary, and his continuous progress is inspiring to us all.
Keep up the fantastic work, Michael!
2025 INTERNATIONAL CHITO-RYU KARATE DO SEMINAR
On May 2nd through May 4th 2025 USA-ICKF, INC hosted an International Chito-Ryu Karate Do Seminar in Bloomfield, New Jersey. We were honored to host German Kyoshi and Bourque Renshi from Canada, as well as Gambino Renshi from Florida. The clinic attracted dedicated participants who brought great energy and enthusiasm at each day of training. The sessions focused on karate basics, as well as Henshuho Bunkai concepts, and had an entire day dedicated to German Kyoshi sharing his expertise on the highest level of Kumite tactics. The final day focused on Kobujutsu- Bo staff techniques. We also held a banquet, bringing together friends, family, and supporters in a celebration of community and completion of the seminar.
Gambino Renshi also held a grading, accompanied by German Kyoshi and Borque Renshi. Reyna Rahaman, one of USA-ICKF’s longest practicing female practitioners achieved the rank of shodan, which was presented at the banquet. USA-ICKF sincerely thanks all three instructors for their time, knowledge, and leadership throughout this event. Their instruction made the clinic engaging, educational, and most importantly a fun experience for all involved. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the event, and continue to support Chito-Ryu Karate do.
2025 USA-ICKF, INC Chito-Ryu Karate Do
Continuing Education Clinic
On March 21st and 22nd, the USA-ICKF conducted a Continuing Education Clinic in Bloomfield, New Jersey. Leading the event were two distinguished instructors, Uchiyama Renshi from Kentucky and Gambino Renshi from Florida. The clinic hosted 12 students who participated in a variety of engaging activities, including partner drills and foundational karate exercises.
The sessions focused on developing techniques, enhancing physical conditioning, and exploring advanced karate concepts. At the conclusion of the clinic, all participants were awarded certificates of achievement to honor their commitment and hard work.
We deeply appreciate everyone who took part in the clinic, particularly during a busy time of year. A heartfelt thank you goes to Uchiyama Renshi and Gambino Renshi for traveling from afar to share their expertise and inspire our growth as Karate-ka.
Brookdale Chito Ryu Karate School Goodwill Training Clinic 2024
On November 22, 2024, USA-ICKF held a Goodwill Training Clinic in Bloomfield, NJ. The session, which ran for two hours, was energized by eager instructors and enthusiastic students. The instructors included Gambino Renshi, Ottavio Mattia Sensei, Ken Frattini Sensei, Necole Mattia Sensei, and Joseph Mattia Sensei. The clinic saw participation from around 15 students, making for a total of 20 participants.
The clinic featured a variety of engaging activities, such as partner drills, basic karate exercises, and an obstacle course. These activities focused on enhancing strength, conditioning, and various critical aspects of karate. At the conclusion of the two-hour session, all participants were awarded a completion certificate in recognition of their efforts. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, especially so close to a holiday. Special gratitude goes to our distinguished instructor, Gambino Renshi for traveling from Florida to New Jersey and imparting valuable knowledge that will help us grow as Karate-ka.
Click the cover below for a full PDF version
Halifax, Nova Scotia Chito-Ryu Summer Camp 2024
USA-ICKF attended an international summer camp held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. From Tuesday July 9, 2024 through Monday July 15, 2024 nine members of the USA-ICKF traveled from different parts of the USA and participated in this clinic. The members included the following: Gambino Renshi, Uchiyama Renshi, Ottavio Mattia Sensei Shidoin, Joseph Mattia Sensei Junshidoin, Anthony Rosamilia, Michael Rosamilia, Vincent Cianicullo, Jason Hernandez, and John Josephsen.
There was a total of nine sessions from July 10 through July 14, 2024. The morning sessions ran from 9:30am – 12:30pm and the afternoon sessions ran from 2:00pm – 4:00pm. The week consisted of learning things such as kihon basic kicks, punches and blocks, basic kumite techniques, basic and advanced kata, indoor and outdoor Bo staff training, and the importance of Regisaho. We were very fortunate to be joined by many great Sensei’s from across the world, some of them include Sandaime Soke (3rd Generation Soke) , and Nidaime Soke (2nd Generation Soke), his father. Also, other high ranking instructors including German Kyoshi, Lee Kyoshi, Bourque Renshi, Trond Erdal Renshi (Norway), Paul Hynd Sensei (Scotland).
On Friday, July 12 German Sensei Kyoshi hosted a barbecue at his house in Halifax, Nova Scotia. We are infinitely grateful for the invitation. Advanced grading took place on July 11, 2024 and the results were announced on July 13, 2024 at a banquet joined by most of the people who attended the clinic throughout the week. Uchiyama Renshi earned his Roku-Dan and his Sandan in Kobujutsu. Gambino Sensei earned his Roku-Dan and the title of Renshi. Congratulations to Uchiyama Renshi and Gambino Renshi on their well-earned achievements.
The USA-ICKF would personally like to thank German Kyoshi for inviting the United States and putting together a very successful and knowledgeable clinic, Lee Kyoshi for traveling to Halifax, Nova Scotia, teaching us, and giving us fantastic knowledge about Regisaho throughout the week, Nidaime Soke & Sandaime Soke for traveling all the way from Japan to teach us in Canada, and all of those that attended the clinic and trained alongside our group. We are very grateful for great training and hope to continue to grow alongside you all and train with you again soon.
2023 Chito-Ryu 14th International Soke Cup, Kumamoto Japan
In August 2023, USA-ICKF traveled over 7100 miles (11,426 km) to Kumamoto Japan. Throughout just ten days, we experienced once in a lifetime scenery, culture, and incredible events one after another. Our group was fueled by Japan’s radiant energy, and its culture helped grow us an indomitable attitude throughout the trip. Amongst dealing with the delaying of flights, avoiding two typhoons, and enduring heat nearing 100°F (38°C), Team USA remained strong and motivated the entire trip. During this trip, our group had attended multiple honorable destinations and events, most importantly visiting the Sohonbu Headquarter Dojo in Kumamoto.
Team USA proudly took part in the 14th International Chito Ryu Karate Do Soke Cup held in Kumamoto, Japan. Nineteen Americans participated in this event, joining competitors from ten other countries. Several participants achieved medalist positions, capturing gold, silver, and bronze medals.
This prestigious international event takes place every three years and is hosted at various locations around the world. The tournament featured several highlighted moments, including international open training sessions before the tournament where athletes from various countries prepared for the tournament competition. During the tournament, Ken Frattini distinguished himself by winning both gold and silver in his division. Anthony J. Rosamilia, won two bronze medals and also received the prestigious award of Most Valued Participant in his division. These two competitors from USA-ICKF also combined with Canada to complete a “North America” Kumite team. Although they did not place, it was a wonderful experience and honor to make the most out of their experience at Soke Cup. Congratulations to them both on their remarkable achievements!
The Soke Cup 2023 Opening Ceremony was similar to the Olympic Opening Ceremony, with a live band playing welcoming, motivational music while each country marched in, carrying their flag and showcasing their competitors and representatives. After all participants took their positions, an elected Japan member started with the opening pledge to the tournament director and our Soke, officially marking the opening of the tournament. There was an amazing Taiko Drum ceremony and demonstration, followed by several other performances from representatives around the world. Soke performed a stunning demonstration of his family’s Kata. The tournament started on Friday August 11th and concluded on Sunday August 13th with medal presentations and announcements.
On August 13th, the evening of the final day of the tournament, a fantastic goodwill banquet was hosted by ICKF-Japan. It was held in a beautiful venue, in a ballroom which held competitors, supporters and family members alike. They provided delicious food, beverages, and held the traditional opening of the Sake barrels (Kagami Biraki). A historical slideshow, displaying the history of Soke and Chito-Ryu was also shown and can be found at the top of our history page. Finally, they opened the floor so everyone could converse and share good spirits. They also played fun music and created a special atmosphere where participants shared pictures, exchanged gifts, and experienced goodwill from around the world.
On Monday August 14th, a historical Shumei Ceremony was held at the Fujisaki Shrine, announcing the 3rd generation Soke for the future. The ceremony included multiple prayers, a kata demonstration, and signified the transition of the title “Soke” in our style. This commemoration is now forever written in the Chitose family lineage and Chito-Ryu Karate-do history. Two Americans, Koukichi Uchiyama and John Anthony Gambino, were honorably invited to attend and partake in this special event.
On Tuesday August 15th, a chartered bus brought several Americans to a special Samurai village in the Aso district, in Kumamoto Prefecture. MeihoDo Sacred Samurai village is a vast 56,000 square meter complex with dozens of buildings and gardens, modeled after the Samurai warrior residences of the Edo period (1603-1858) and dedicated entirely to the traditional samurai arts. We were greeted by Tanaka Sensei and others. It was a great honor and experience for the Americans to be invited for a tour of this sacred property. We were introduced to a large tatami training room, ancient artifacts dating back to feudal Japan, a waterfall area, and then a traditional tea ceremony. The highlight was when the Americans were taught how to use a katana and performed Tameshigiri, the cutting of bamboo and straw rolled from tatami floor into cylindrical shapes. We were informed the tatami wraps were designed specifically to mimic the density of a human forearm, showing how impressive a true katana actually is. This was a very exhilarating and appreciated art form. Following that, we were introduced to one of the largest Taiko drums in the world. We were invited to test the drum by striking it with a large smooth wooden stick (Bachi), made in various sizes and from different kinds of wood such as white oak, bamboo, and Japanese magnolia. The sound reached deep into our souls.
USA-ICKF,INC takes pride in giving this rich opportunity to its members and their families. The next Soke Cup 2026 will be in Gold Coast Australia.
USA-ICKF