I was just on the phone with a female friend of mine who's son has been talking Shotokan Karate for a little while now. Tonight in the Dojo, he was sparring (he is 7, is that normal at such a young age?) and was probably partialy embarrased and physically hurt. He complaimed about chest pains and was hit in the eye. Now I know that he does not take his art seriously (who did at 7?) as he should. She has told me that the Sensei (if he is one), abuses the chilren both mentally and physically. He forces the parent to sign a two or three year contract and they have to pay to test, etc. (is all this normal) My gut and experience tell me NO! I am a Shao Lin Practitioner and know that these are not normal. I have advised to seek another Sensei/Dojo. My question to anyone is She is looking for a Shotokan Dojo in Brooklyn, NY. Specificaly Clinton Hills, Prospect Heights, Park Slope or Fort Greens area. I would appreciate any assistance in this

Furious Tiger