Isshin Ryu Karate’s founder Shimabuku 島袋 was born in Chan village on September 19,1908, Meiji 41 – year of the “Monkey”.  His given Okinawan name was “Kana” and his given Japanese name was “Shinkichi“.  As an adult, he chose the name “Tatsuo” – 龍夫 Dragon Man. He studied Karate under Okinawan Masters Kyan Chotoku 喜屋武 朝徳, Miyagi Chojun 宮城 長順 and Motobu Choki 本部 朝基. He further pursued Kobudo training with Master Taira Shinken 平 信賢. Shimabuku combined their teachings with his insights to form his own style. On January 15th, 1956, he announced the name of his style as Isshin Ryu 一心流, One-Heart Way. Isshin Ryu’s Dragon Man passed away on May 30th, 1975. His Karate lives on.

Placing 3rd in overall points among the competing schools, with Sensei Kotanchik winning Men’s Grand Championship Sparring, as members prepare for competition at the IWKA World Championship in London this summer.