Our History
50+ Years of Excellence
The Beginning
The Villieria Tigers dojo first opened its doors, becoming the oldest dojo in the Moot area.
Funakoshi Style Era
The dojo taught Funakoshi Style Karate, laying the foundation for a lasting legacy.
Kyokushin Period
A brief period teaching Kyokushin karate before returning to Funakoshi style.
A New Chapter
Kyoshi Riaan Coetzee took over as chief instructor after training at the dojo since 1974.
Shorin-Ryu Shorinkan
On 15 January, Shorin-Ryu Shorinkan was introduced to South Africa through the Villieria Tigers.
50+ Years of Excellence
Continuing the tradition of authentic Okinawan karate under Kyoshi Riaan Coetzee (7th Dan).
The Beginning (1970)
The Villieria Tigers dojo first opened its doors in 1970, making it the oldest dojo in the Moot area. From humble beginnings, the dojo has grown to become a cornerstone of martial arts training in Pretoria.
A New Chapter (1991)
In 1991, Kyoshi Riaan Coetzee took over as chief instructor. He had been a student at the Villieria Tigers since 1974, starting his karate career at the age of 13. His deep connection to the dojo and years of training made him the perfect choice to lead the club into a new era.
Shorin-Ryu Shorinkan (1994-Present)
On 15 January 1994, a very important decision was made to break away from all known styles of karate in South Africa and introduce something completely new to the country. Shorin-Ryu Shorinkan was introduced to South Africa, and the Villieria Tigers has been teaching this style of traditional Okinawan karate ever since.
Kyoshi Riaan Coetzee, now a 7th Dan, serves as the Vice President of Shorin-Ryu South Africa. Under his leadership, the Villieria Tigers continues to uphold the traditions and values of authentic Okinawan karate.
What We Teach Today
Okinawan Kobudo
Traditional weapons training
Street Combat
One-on-one techniques
Self-Defence
Advanced techniques
NO RETREAT – NO SURRENDER!