Senpai Daniel began his karate training in 1985 in Newbury Park, CA under Sensei Alex Schein. Later, Sensei Marcus Young (Sensei Victor Young’s son) took over the teaching position in Newbury Park, and eventually transferred all the students to Camarillo Shotokan.
In 1995, Senpai Daniel earned his 1st Degree black belt. He also pursued other activities, including high school wrestling where he reigned Mira Monte League wrestling champion. He also earned the rank of Eagle Scout. In 1999, the Boys and Girls Club was interested in starting a karate program at their facility and Senpai Daniel was sent to teach there. In 2001, Senpai Daniel passed his 2nd Degree black belt exam.
Daniel took a 5 year hiatus from Shotokan to concentrate on his college education. He did however manage to sneak in some training at a Shito Ryu dojo near campus. During that time, he earned a BS in Electrical Engineering, a BS in Computer Science and a MS in Engineering Management. He is currently employed by the U.S. Navy as a Software Engineer.
Senpai Daniel is the eldest of four brothers – three are black belts and one is a brown belt!
Daniel’s other interests and activities include reef tanks, piano, roller hockey, paintball, and snowboarding.
