Shihan Eric Vinagreiro
Director, NKS Markham

 

After their son was born with a heart defect that required major surgery at the age of eighteen months, Shihan Eric Vinagreiro’s parents enrolled him at Northern Karate schools. Twenty years later, this formerly ‘frail child’ has grown into a talented martial arts professional who exudes strength and good health.

During a training and research trip to Japan in October 2009, he received his certification from Master Tetsuhiro Hokama, President, All Okinawan Karate-do Federation.  Additional ceremonies were conducted at Shuri Castle, widely regarded as the birthplace of Karate-do, where Master Cezar Borkowski presented his Shihan belt.

In addition to a fifth degree black belt, Shihan Vinagreiro holds a Bachelor of Education (Western) and an Ontario Teaching Certificate. He spent a year in London England’s notorious East End teaching grade school and karate to underprivileged children.

Currently the Director of NKS Markham, Shihan Vinagreiro also enjoys literature, film and traveling the world with his wife Agnieszka.