Verfasst von Selma Grimaldi (SWISS SYOUKENKAI) und Marc Pfeifer (SGRKR)
Matsuura Shihan devoted his entire life with extraordinary dedication to Goju-Ryu Karate and to the path of Karate-Do. For many decades, he was a teacher, a role model, and a guide for generations of karateka. His instruction went far beyond technique and training. He taught us discipline, respect, humility, and the importance of continuous learning – values that are not only important in the dojo, but throughout life.
With patience, clarity, and great kindness, he accompanied each of us on our individual path. For many of us, he was not only a master of karate, but also a mentor in life.
In 2024 we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Swiss Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Renmei (SGRKR). Matsuura Shihan travelled to Switzerland more than twenty times to teach us. Over the decades, he also welcomed and instructed countless delegations from Switzerland in Tokyo.
A guiding principle he shared with us only a few weeks ago was:
教えるという事は、半分は自分も学ぶという事である
“Teaching means that one also learns oneself, at least halfway.”
In the spirit of Karate-Do, this expresses that a teacher continues to grow and learn through teaching.
We will miss Matsuura Shihan deeply. Yet in our memories, in our training, and in the values he passed on to us, he will always remain with us.
With deep gratitude and in quiet remembrance,
Selma Grimaldi Marc Pfeifer
on behalf of on behalf of the
SWISS SYOUKENKAI SGRKR
