Jesse Lake, Sensei of Shadow Warriors Karate School in Lakewood, Washington, strongly believes in teaching traditional morals, ethics and values to enrich one’s life. Now in his mid-thirties and a former U.S. Marine, Jesse Lake holds a 3rd degree black belt in Japanese Koga Ryu Ninjitsu as well as a 3rd degree black belt in Shotokan Karate. As featured in Taekwondo Times (Sept., 2004), Sensei Lake is recognized for teaching the traditional way of the warrior. His achievements not only show true in the immense collection of trophies, awards & certificates, but in each & every student that demonstrates respect, discipline & commitment.
Jesse Lake is also the founder of the Native American Martial Arts Association (NAMAA), a new organization dedicated to teaching the sacred art of the Native Warrior. These teachings will go far beyond the physical as to incorporate spiritual & cultural practice. Jesse was born and raised as a Seneca in the Iroquois Confederacy in a family of traditional healers. His training has always been and continues to be a way of life.
“Martial arts is a great vehicle to rejuvenate our awareness of the environment, the knowledge of plants, traditional morality, application of ethics, history and the true Warrior’s Spirit,” states Jesse Lake. “The Warrior Spirit is developed to unify the mind and body with the natural universe to produce health, calm and alertness.” In these times it is important to provide a positive message to all humanity, that anyone can achieve their dreams and goals if they work hard, stay focused and follow the natural laws.
These rich, yet simple teachings, shared with humbleness and appreciation, help Sensei Lake to become closer to his goal of helping people to free themselves from being victims of life’s challenges. “The rewards of freedom are to be yourself, be healthy, enjoy your life, enjoy your loved ones and discover your truth within.”
Sensei Lake invites all people to come and discover the journey of self. Sensei Lake states, “Teaching someone how to kick and punch is easy but teaching them how to deal with and let go of self discouragement is the challenge.” “I believe in empowering people to be the best they can be; it’s not the Black Belt that makes a person, it’s the journey to black belt that makes a person.” Here at Shadow Warriors Karate we make people.