Instructors

William Schrader

William (Shihan) has dedicated over 35 years to the martial arts, focusing primarily on Kyokushin Karate, where they hold the rank of 6th Dan, and Iaijutsu, with the rank of Chudan in the Shin Shin Ryu tradition. Over the years, Shihan has expanded their training to include various other styles and schools of Budo, further enriching their martial arts journey.

Currently serving as a Board member for the International Federation of Karate (IFK), Shihan continues to uphold and share the values of martial arts. Their training lineage includes studying under esteemed instructors such as Ian Harris Shihan, a two-time uchi-deshi under Mas Oyama Sosai and Branch Chief under Sosai and Tadashi Nakamura Kaicho of World Seido Karate; Larry Swanser Shihan; and Newton James Soke of the Bas-I Kyokushin Karate Organization.

At Kaizen Kan, Shihan is committed to preserving and passing on the wisdom and teachings they have received. The mission is to ensure these arts continue to live and breathe, improving human qualities and enriching lives. Shihan believes that martial arts are a universal heritage, belonging to everyone.

Outside of Karate, Bill has served our nation as a member of the U.S. Army (MOS 11B1P) and is a recently retired Federal Law Enforcement Agent. He is a proud father of 3 girls and a husband.

Omar Covarrubias

Omar Covarrubias is a seasoned corrections professional with over 25 years of dedicated service. A proud U.S. Armed Forces veteran, he has been a certified Tactical Operator, Firearms Instructor, and Defensive Tactics Instructor for more than 22 years.

With over 34 years of martial arts experience, including a 3rd Dan black belt in Kyokushin Karate, Omar exemplifies physical and mental discipline. He is also a former kickboxing coach, bringing his expertise and passion to help others develop strength and resilience.

Beyond his professional achievements, Sensei Omar is a devoted father of three and a committed community leader. His diverse background in law enforcement, martial arts, and military service highlights his dedication to discipline, leadership, and service.

How it started

Founded in 2013, Kaizen Kan began with a mission: to carry on the traditions and teachings of Sosai Mas Oyama’s Kyokushin Karate. Rooted in the principles of discipline, respect, and strength, the dojo aimed to introduce Kyokushin Karate to Tucson, Arizona.

The journey began with classes held in a shared gym space. Despite the limited resources, the passion and dedication of the instructors and students quickly cultivated a sense of community and enthusiasm for the art.

By 2014, the dojo had outgrown its initial space. With the support of a growing student base and a shared vision of excellence, Kaizen Kan moved into its dedicated building. Providing an environment where students could fully immerse themselves in the rigorous training and philosophy of Kyokushin Karate.

Kaizen Kan has remained steadfast in its commitment to expanding the reach of Kyokushin Karate in the USA. The dojo continues to honor the legacy of Sosai Mas Oyama by fostering a new generation of practitioners, and instilling the values of perseverance, humility, and resilience that define the art.

Kaizen Kan is a memeber of IFK

Kaizen Kan is a memeber of IFK

The IFK (Kyokushin) was founded in 1992 by Hanshi Steve Arneil (10th Dan) to:

  • Promote on an international basis the teaching, practice and dissemination of information on Kyokushin karate;

  • Establish a unified system of kihon, kata and gradings within national organizations;

  • Provide an International identity to national organizations;.