Edward Kaloudis

Kaloudis Sensei became one of the early practitioners instrumental in bringing Japanese karate to the East coast of the United States by introducing the Koei-Kan system of Karate-Do. After studying in Japan with Koei-Kan Shiso (founder) Onishi Eizo, Kaloudis Sensei began teaching in New York City while a student at New York University in 1956. Subsequently he moved to New Jersey where after teaching at various locations he established a fixed Dojo in Clifton in 1965 which operates to this day at the same location. As the foremost pioneer of Koei-Kan outside of Japan, Kaloudis Sensei also introduced the system to South America and Europe. At the present time he is one of only four to reach eighth degree black belt (hachidan) Koei-Kan’s highest level.

Kaloudis Sensei is currently inactive due to chronic illness, however his influence will continue to be felt in the practice and spread of Koei-Kan Karate-Do.


Edward Kaloudis

Gary Clements

Mr. Gary Clements while serving in the United States Navy was stationed in Japan during the early 1960’s where he was a pupil of Onishi Eizo Kancho Sensei, becoming one of the first American’s to earn a black belt in Koei-Kan. Upon returning to the United States he began teaching a select few in the Detroit Metropolitan area becoming a senior advisor and mentor to Brian Frost current Koei-Kan Director/Chief Technical Instructor for North America.

Although presently inactive he remains an integral part of Koei-Kan’s development outside of Japan.


Gary Clements

Richard Woodgeard

Mr. Richard (Woody) Woodgeard, a United States Marine from Ohio studied under Onishi Kancho Sensei while stationed in Japan during the early 1960’s becoming one of the first American’s to earn a black belt in the Koei-Kan system.

Upon returning to the United States he taught at various locations in Ohio eventually establishing a fixed Dojo in Marion where he produced a number of black belts including his wife Barbara. In collaboration with Edward Kaloudis and Brian Frost he was instrumental in the formation of the United States Branch of the International Koei-Kan Karate-Do Federation.