Gary Stafford is a 2nd degree black belt and senior instructor of the Austin Shotokan Karate of America dojo.   Gary began Shotokan Karate training in 1980 at the Houston SKA dojo under sandan Daniel Sullivan, III.

We want all members of our dojo to enjoy practice and have an experience that improves their physical and mental state.  A senior member leads each practice to ensure every member is treated with respect and dignity, as required by Ohshima Sensei.  Our practice schedule will be physically challenging but rewarding and safe for all participants, no matter your starting ability or condition.

Gary has a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Kansas and works in technology with a background in geophysics, nuclear instrumentation design, and test and measurement instrumentation.

Avery Saxe is a second degree black belt student of Tsutomu Ohshima, founder of Shotokan Karate of America. Avery has been training with SKA since 2009 and brings a high level of energy and enthusiasm to our Austin SKA dojo.

Avery has primary responsibility for new and junior member training; providing focused instruction on proper form for stances, blocks, punching and kicking techniques, and the correct application of these techniques during our practice of kata and kumite.

Avery has a B.A. in International Studies from Butler University and a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Texas at Austin. She works for the Legislative Budget Board.