Tom Robertson Eastern Karate, Brantford
A Legacy of Excellence
Eastern Karate Brantford was founded in 1973 by Senseis Sam Dalmonte and Tony Chang,
who passionately taught Shotokan, Chito-Ryu, and Goju-Ryu karate to hundreds of students,
establishing a strong martial arts tradition in Brantford.
Tom Robertson, originally a judo student under Sensei Jim Little, was inspired by Sensei Wally Slocki and Bruce Lee to join Eastern Karate when it opened. He earned his first Black
Belt in 1977 and, in 1980, assumed leadership after Senseis Dalmonte and Chang moved on.
Continuing their legacy, Tom expanded the program to include judo, assisted by Sensei Gary Cole.
Driven by a lifelong pursuit of learning, Tom studied under Sensei Don Warrener, who introduced him to Sensei Richard Kim and Professor Wally Jay. Through these connections, he
trained with Professor Remy Presas, Grandmaster Ron Van Browning, and Kendo with Sensei Tamio Tateno.
Influenced by Sensei Wally Slocki, Robertson founded Tom Robertson’s Self Defence Today in 1986, integrating modern self-defence concepts with traditional karate. Ray Axeworthy
continued the classical karate program at Eastern Karate Brantford.
Robertson’s teachings, emphasize situational awareness, strategic adaptability, and practical techniques necessary for this fast changing world. Though the dojo is temporarily closed, he
continues to teach self-defence in private schools and small group settings.