Karate Program Kicks Off in Jefferson Next Month

The Jefferson Township Recreation Program will offer karate enthusiasts a chance to learn martial arts next month when a 10-week karate program kicks off on Sept. 9.

The program will continue through Nov. 11 and is open to school-aged children from kindergarten age up to adults.

According to the Recreation Department, the karate program has been running for the past 10 years with instructors from the Jersey Judo Karate Academy of Kenvil teaching students the Isshinryu style. 

"The skills learned help students develop coordination, balance, posture, and endurance. Students also gain self-confidence and discipline through progression in karate, while studying the authentic form of Asian Martial Arts," according to a press release for the program. 

The karate academy is run by Sensei Rick Norris, who has an eighth-degree black belt, and the academy staff has more than 50 people certified and fully trained with black belts. 

Classes will be held in the Community Lodge at Camp Jefferson on Weldon Road from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for kids in grades K-4 and 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for grades 5-adult.

Registration can be completed in person at Camp Jefferson, 81 Weldon Road, Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information or to request a registration form, call the Recreation office at 973-663-8404 or visit the Jefferson Township website.