About us
About
NORWIN NINJAS
VIOLA KARATE DOJO 空手道場
Norwin Ninjas is a distinguished, family-owned martial arts program based in Irwin/North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. Established in 1969 by the Viola family under “VIOLA KARATE” Allegheny Shotokan Karate, it has been serving the Pittsburgh region for over 56 years. Each program incorporates the exclusive Sensei Says® Life Skills curriculum, focusing on building respect, discipline, confidence, and focus in students. The school emphasizes creating “Black Belts in Life,” aiming to instill lifelong values in its students . Lean about “SENSEI VIOLA DAY” in Pittsburgh. The dojo is home to members of TEAM USA from the World Association of Kickboxing Organization under the recognition of the US Olympic Committee.
Family Owned Operated
MEET VIOLA KARATE
For 3-geneations the Viola family have been building “Black Belts in Life” throughout the Pittsburgh region.
How you can become a
#BLACKBELTINLIFE
Earning a black belt in life is a metaphor for mastering the essential skills, character, and mindset needed to succeed beyond the martial arts dojo. It represents a commitment to personal growth, discipline, resilience, and service to others. Just like in karate or any martial art, it’s not about the belt itself — it’s about the journey, the values, and the ability to overcome life’s challenges with strength and humility.
To earn a Black Belt in Life is to go beyond the kicks and punches — it’s about becoming the best version of yourself. Martial arts champion, author, and visionary Bill Viola Jr. believes that the greatest victory isn’t in the ring — it’s in life. His philosophy teaches that true black belts live with honor, resilience, and purpose every day.
Viola Jr. developed the “Black Belt in Life” mindset as part of his mission to empower students not only as martial artists, but as leaders, role models, and compassionate citizens. Through programs like Sensei Says and the Common Sensei movement, he instills life skills that last a lifetime. Intellectual property included: Gigo™ Ginger™ Marcos™ are trademark characters of SENSEI SAYS ®
Norwin Ninjas is a renowned, family-owned martial arts program located in Irwin/North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. Established in 1969 by the Viola family under the Allegheny Shotokan Karate Club, it has been serving the Pittsburgh region for over 50 years.
Norwin Ninjas has a rich tradition of excellence, recognized internationally as one of the most successful sport karate schools in the Pittsburgh region. The school is affiliated with major karate organizations, including the USA Karate Hall of Fame and the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO) .
VIOLA KARATE 空手
