Local Karate kids (and Adults) receive some National Honors
August 10, 2010 Submitted photos

Family Self Defense Center (FSDC), in partnership with Novi Parks, received record-setting national recognition as one of the top Isshinryu Karate programs in the country at the National Isshinryu Hall of Fame Awards and Tournament in Knoxville, TN. 31 trophies were earned by the 15 FSDC competitors, with six National Champions crowned.

Winners include:

Devon DeCaire - 1st, 2nd, 4th place
Joshua Huang - 1st, 2nd place
Mitchell Huang - 1st, 2nd, 3rd place
Tom Pospeshil - 1st, 3rd place
Alex Raeon - 1st, 2nd, 4th place
Mark Swanson - 1st, 3rd, 4th place
Tanaz Naterwala - 2nd place (2)
Alex Pospeshil – 2nd, 3rd place (2)
Andrew Pospeshil - 2nd, 3rd place
Annabel Spencer - 2nd place
Cyd Spencer - 2nd place
Andrew Swanson - 2nd place
Ryan Swanson - 3rd place (2)
James Takeshita - 3rd place
Noah D’Arcy - 4th place

Additionally, Devon DeCaire was selected as the Top Female Karate Student in the country (12 & under), while Mitchel Huang was voted the Top Male Jr. Competitor in the country. Tanaz Naterwala received honors for her contribution to Isshinryu Karate for 2010, while Ryan Tgiros received honors for Top Five Karate Students in the country (13-17). The Family Self Defense Center was designated as one of the Top Five Isshinryu Dojos in the country for the 5th consecutive year. The school’s co-owner, Chris Szelap, was honored as the Isshinryu Karate Top Female Instructor in the nation. “It is such an honor to be recognized at this national venue, “commented Szelap. “I attribute our success to the great students and parents of FSDC and to my husband and school co-owner Ed Szelap.”

The Family Self Defense Center, in partnership with the City of Novi Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department offers classes in Isshinryu Karate and Padded Sport Sword throughout the year. The school will also be hosting their annual tournament October 30th for both karate and sword participants.