Our Dedicated Senseis and Instructors
Katsuhiko Takayama
Kendo 7th Dan Renshi
Since Joining the USYD Kendo club in 2010, Takayama Sensei has grown the club to be the biggest in Australia!
After graduating from Saitama University in Education, Takayama Sensei was a formal finalist in the All-Japan Universities tournament and has experience coaching over 6 different kendo teams worldwide.
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Takayama Sensei's methodological approach in coaching has proven success with students winning multiple championships spanning across, University Nationals and State Kendo Championships, Australian kendo championships, as well as top 8 result at the recent 2024 World Kendo Championships.​
Iris Somera
Kendo 2nd Dan
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As part of the Australian Team, Iris recently represented her country at the 19th World Kendo championships!
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Her teaching style is dynamic, engaging and collaborative. she takes a "lets do it together" approach. Actively engaging with students, getting to know them personally, and creating an inclusive and supportive atmosphere in the dojo. Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious, motivating students to tackle new challenges with confidence.
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Ervin Peng
Kendo 5th Dan
​Starting Kendo at the USYD Kendo club in 2007, Ervin Sensei has instructed Kendo for over 15 years, specializing in new beginner programs.
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Ervin Sensei's holistic approach to balancing traditional kendo training methods with sports science knowledge has led to mentoring students gaining success at the university nationals, State kendo championships, Australian kendo Championships, as well as the recent World kendo Championship.
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Starting the branch in Mortdale, He aims spread the love of kendo in South Sydney, where it is a safe space for students to have fun, improve and strive!
Walter Chung
Kendo 5th Dan
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Walter Sensei’s teaching focuses on the importance of mastering kihon (fundamentals), instilling in students the discipline and precision needed to excel in kendo.
Known for his thoughtful guidance and steady demeanor, Walter Sensei creates an environment where students feel supported in their growth, whether they are just beginning or striving to reach advanced levels.
Joe Pile (Takatori)
Kendo 1st Dan
A Primary School teacher by trade, and a former National Kendo Champion.
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Joe's dedication and passion is reflected in his down to earth, friendly, engaging style of instructing, tailoring instructions for students.
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He hopes to share his experience with students so that everyone can grow together and train together!
Ioana (Iggz) Levins
Kendo 4th Dan
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Starting Kendo with the USYD Kendo Club, Iggz ​brings a collaborative yet rigorous approach to her teaching, inspiring students through focused and challenging training sessions.
She emphasizes the importance of clean and precise kendo, encouraging practitioners to refine their form, timing, and technique through consistent effort and attention to detail. Iggz believes that growth comes from pushing beyond comfort zones, and her sessions are designed to foster both physical and mental resilience.