Robert “Roberto” Curtis
Hanshi, 9th Degree · Beikoku Shidokan Karate
Roberto began martial arts practice in 1969, studying Judo, Karate, and Kung Fu before beginning his training with Grand Master Seikichi Iha in 1979. He became one of Iha’s senior students and was promoted to 9th Degree, Hanshi, in 2022.
During long-term overseas assignments, Roberto taught U.S. Embassy security personnel, U.S. Marines, foreign security agents, and others. Today, he concentrates on adult-focused Okinawan self-defense karate at Virginia Dojo and serves on Beikoku Shidokan black belt testing panels.
Denise Hawkins Coursey
4th Degree · Beikoku Shidokan Karate
Denise began her martial arts training in 1998 and started training in Beikoku Shidokan Karate in Alexandria with Roberto Curtis in 2011. She also holds a black belt in Tae Kwon Do.
Her experience as one of only a few women in many dojo settings made her passionate about bringing more women into martial arts. She leads the Women’s Karate program with a focus on confidence, practical self-defense, and a strong community.