The SWM Budokan (Southwest Middlesex Budokan Academy for Martial Arts), located at 249 Main St, Glencoe, Ontario, offers a dynamic, family-oriented martial arts experience in a traditional dojo setting.
The dojo isn’t limited to karate—we also teach Boxing, Aikijujitsu, and Kendo, all under the guidance of Chief Instructor Doug Horton Sr.—affectionately known as “Pops” Sensei—who brings decades of experience to the mat.
Karate at the SWM Budokan
- Multi-discipline training: Beyond karate, students can explore boxing, Aikijujitsu, and Kendo, allowing for a rich, varied martial arts education
- Structured programs: Separate times for youth and adults make it easier for families to participate across age groups.
- Experienced instruction: Led by “Pops” Sensei Doug Horton Sr., known for his deep expertise and community-driven approach.
Our Karate Program
The SWM Budokan Karate Program in Glencoe offers structured, welcoming classes for both youth and adults—Juniors (ages < 12) train from 5:00–6:00 PM, followed by Adult Karate from 6:00–7:00 PM. Housed in a traditional dojo at 249 Main St, the program is part of a broader martial arts school that includes boxing, Aikijujitsu, and Kendo, all taught by Chief Instructor Doug Horton Sr.—affectionately known as “Pops.” Whether you're looking for discipline, fitness, or community, we offer a vibrant training environment for all levels.
Our style of Chito Ryu Karate is based on the direction of Masami Tsuruoka, who is known as [1]‘The Father of Canadian Karate’. Tsuruoka Sensei was the Canadian Representative of Tsuyoshi Chitose starting in 1951 until 1979, when he stepped down as the head of the Chito Kai, and Shane Higashi, one of his senior students took on the lead. Tsuroka Sensei’s top students and representative in Chito Ryu were Shane Higashi and Monty Guest. Tsuruoka Sensei lead Chito Ryu Karate in Canada until 1978, when a disagreement between him and Chitose occurred. Without getting into the details of the disagreement, it is known that is involved the use of funds from Canadian operations that were sent to Japan. The outcome of this disagreement led to a division of leadership and practice. Chitose re-assigned the leadership of Chito Ryu Karate in North America to Shane Higashi, who was the new head of the Chito Kai in North America.
