Long time established Vancouver Island martial arts schools, Island Kung-Fu in Duncan and Kung-Fu Academy in Langford, are now SHAKU Family Martial Arts. The new name and brand reflects the unity being formed among Independent martial arts school operators in Canada. Schools are coming together under one name to share best practices in areas such as curriculum, instruction, school operations and to promote the benefit of martial arts to children and families.
The change will provide students with access to
enhanced resources for learning and a network of students and
families committed to the SHAKU philosophy of fitness,
self-discipline and respect. These two Vancouver Island SHAKU
Schools are pioneers in what is becoming a major shift within the
martial arts industry in Canada, as Independent school operators
look for ways to succeed and grow in challenging economic
times. To assist with future growth and expansion, SHAKU
President, Cathal Walsh has enlisted Wayne Maillet of Franchise
Specialists, a franchise consulting firm based in Vancouver.
Mr. Maillet’s previous clients include Realty World, Uniglobe
Travel, Keg Steakhouses, and many others.
Comments Ian Clark, franchisee in Duncan, British
Columbia, “Being new to franchising and the complexity of operating
a martial arts school, we really had to rely heavily on the
expertise and support of Sifu Cathal Walsh and everyone involved
with SHAKU Family Martial Arts. We were provided all the tools,
resources, and training we needed to have a successful business now
and for the future.”
Comments Bob Holland, franchisee in Victoria, BC,
“I have always tried to keep up to date with the latest
developments in martial arts business, instruction, marketing and
curriculum. The information and materials provided by the
SHAKU franchise, coupled with the ongoing motivation behind it for
me to do well, has been exceptionally beneficial to the growth and
development of my school.”
About SHAKU Family Martial Arts. SHAKU was founded by Cathal Walsh as Canada’s leader in family martial arts and is poised for national expansion through the franchise growth model. SHAKU core values are Self-Discipline, Hard Work, Attitudes of Respect and Confidence, the constant pursuit of Knowledge, and Unity as students support one another on their path to learn. Cathal passion for martial arts and education put Cathal on a ten year quest to refine and develop the "best way possible" to operate a successful martial arts school that would provide children and families access to the wide range of benefits that the martial arts has to offer, while maintaining the integrity of the martial arts through high standards for student discipline, knowledge, and skills. Currently there are two franchisees on Vancouver Island and others in discussions.
