South African-born Shotokan practitioner, Stan Schmidt, is a renowned Karate Master, globally recognized for his exceptional skills and expertise in the martial art. As a founding fellow of the International Karate Society (IKS) and the founder of the College of the Open Hand, Sensei Stan has made significant contributions to the world of Karate.
Born on October 6, 1936, in Kokstad, Transkei, Schmidt's educational background includes King Edward VII High School and a Master's Degree in Communications from the University of South Africa. His first visit to Japan in 1963 marked the beginning of a lifelong connection with the country, where he has trained extensively with top Japanese Karate Masters on numerous occasions.
In addition to his impressive Karate career, Schmidt has also made appearances in the South African filmed martial arts films, Karate Killer (1976) and its sequel, Kill and Kill Again (1981),showcasing his skills and expertise in a more dramatic and action-packed context.