Inspirational coach Brendan influenced the world of karate

TRIBUTES poured in this week following the tragic loss of Sensei Brendan Perry – an inspirational karate coach from Rathfarnham.

Brendan ran the Kaizen Dojo in Terenure Village, a popular karate and fitness club with his wife Orla.

Brendan sadly passed away on Monday, January 29 and is a big loss for the wider community.

ONAKAI National Amateur Karate Association of Ireland were among the many mourning the loss of “esteemed karate master, Sensei Brendan Perry.”

Posting a tribute of their Facebook page, ONAKAI President Chris Kelly said Brendan leaves behind a “legacy marked by dedication, excellence, and influence in the world of karate.”

“With over 43 years of practice and 30 years of teaching, Sensei Perry was a remarkable figure in martial arts. He was a 7th dan Black Belt, a testament to his skill, discipline, and deep understanding of karate. His leadership as the Chief Instructor of WSKF Ireland since 2000 brought about significant advancements in the art form,” said Kelly.

“His selection as a member of the World Shotokan Karate Federation Shihankai, a prestigious Technical Committee with only ten members worldwide, highlighted his expertise and commitment to the sport. Sensei Perry’s vision led him to leave the WSKF in 2017, founding Kaizen Ireland, an association of dojos united in the ethos of traditional Karate training and the sport. Kaizen Dojo, under his guidance, became a central hub for training and administration.”

Mr Kelly praised Sensei Perry’s tremendous success at national and international levels, and contributions to karate, both as a competitor and instructor, which “have left an indelible mark on the martial arts community.”

An outpouring of tributes to Sensei Perry include his many former students and parents of children whom he had a huge positive impact on.

A message on RIP.ie said Sensei Brendan Perry, of Boden Park, Rathfarnham, Kaizen Dojo, Terenure and ONAKAI National Junior Kata Coach) was a beloved husband to Orla, loving dad to Laragh, Nicole and Josh and devoted grandad to Indie May, who will be sadly missed by his extended family and friends in the martial arts community both near and far.