Rank: 5th Dan
School: Bayonne AOKA Inc
Jason M. Wanko was promoted to Black Belt in 1995 by Shihan Ralph Passero. Jason's initial training began at the age of five under the watchful eye of his father, Dr. Michael A. Wanko, 8th Dan. After a year he decided to pursue other competitive activities. Jason's interest in the martial arts was revived at the age of fourteen before entering his Freshman year of high school. Sensei Wanko began attending classes at the Broadway dojo in Bayonne under the tutelage of Shihan Ralph Passero. He also help to found the Bayonne High School Karate League and served as president. After graduating from high school, Jason returned to the League as an advisor while attending college. As a student attending Seton Hall University, Sensei Wanko taught self-defense classes at the recreation center in addition to karate classes on the campus. He also taught self-defense to women working in conjunction with the dormitory safety committee. Jason also worked along side his father in 1996 with the Parent Information Class (PIC) for the Bayonne dojo. This was a free service for parents of all children enrolled at the dojo. The classes were designed to help parents with their children's karate training without additional financial burden. The instructors covered terminology and protocol of the dojo and demonstrated and instructed parents in the basic movements and exercises. Sensei Wanko is a social studies teacher at Hoboken High School. He teaches United States history and has worked with the Alternative Education Program for at risk students. Mr. Wanko holds a Master's Degree in Administration and Supervision from Saint Peter's College and a Master's Degree in Corporate and Public Communications from Seton Hall University. Action Martial Arts Magazine awarded Sensei Wanko outstanding contribution and spirit to the martial arts in 2002. Grand Master Ed McGrath awarded Sensei of the Year to Mr. Wanko at the 2000 tournament dinner. Grand Master Don Nagle awarded Mr. Wanko with the outstanding instructor award in 1997. Sensei Wanko still trains with his father Dr. Michael A. Wanko, 8th Dan, and his Uncle J. George Wanko, 8th Dan. Sensei Wanko currently holds the rank of Go Dan (5th Degree Black Belt).