Shihan Stephen Xepapas
(6th Dan)

Tora Shotokan Karate Do Founder and Chief Instructor

Dojo Kun

Seek perfection of character!

Be faithful!

Endeavour!

Respect others!

Refrain from violent behaviour!

Shihan Stephen Xepapas

Stephen Xepapas started martial arts training in 1970 at the age of 15 when, inspired by the infamous 'judo chop' in a James Bond film, he went to learn Shotokan Karate from Sensei Othma Buchmann. While still training with Sensei Othma, the club heard of another association under the guidance of a special instructor - none other than Frank Nowak.

Sensei Frank Nowak, an outstanding karate instructor had recently arrived in Australia, and agreed to take Othma and his students under his association. Eventually, due to health reasons, Sensei Othma had to retire. Stephen remained a devoted student of Sensei Frank Nowak and was graded to 4th Dan in March 1991 - not long before Sensei Nowak's death. In 1996, after a national seminar, and with many of his students gaining black belts, Stephen achieved his 5th Dan.

2001 was a particularly fulfilling year, when his 5th Dan rank was personally recognised by Sensei Kase, and one of his first students graded to 4th Dan.

In 2003, at a National Seminar, Sensei Stephen gained his 6th Dan. Sensei Stephen is experienced in Judo, Tai Chi and other Martial Arts, and has been teaching Self Defence for many years. Sensei Stephen travels interstate and overseas regularly holding seminars and taking gradings. In addition to instructing at his dojo, he is also currently teaching Self Defence courses at many Southern Tasmanian schools, as well as running fitness classes with the Greek Community.

Contact Sensei Steve if you would like to join us or if you would like any more information.