My Kyokushin journey started a very long time ago… a lifetime, some would say. It’s been a central part of my life since 1980, when I began training under Sensei Jim “Swanny” Swanson at Naval Training Center–Orlando.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of training with many respected instructors, including Hanshi Steve Arneil, Saiko Shihan Shigeru Oyama, Shihan Bobby Lowe, and Shihan Akiyoshi Matsui. In 1996, after my teacher retired, I joined USA-IFK under Shihan Mike Monaco. I trained extensively with Shihan Bill Richards and attended multiple seminars with Hanshi Arneil.
Following 9/11 in 2001, I returned to active duty in the U.S. Navy, serving as a Master-at-Arms until retiring in 2012. During that time, I taught non-lethal weapons, defensive tactics, and use-of-force, applying martial principles in real-world environments. Over the years, I’ve also studied Tai-Jitsu, Kobudo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
In 2021, I returned to my home state of Texas, reconnected with USA-IFK, and founded Texas Kyokushin Karate, 41 years after first stepping into the dojo. I currently serve as Chairman of the USA-IFK Media Committee and website administrator.
This blog reflects my ongoing pursuit of the ultimate truth. I find myself, during this stage of my life, often reflecting on the lessons, struggles, and insights that I’ve experienced over a lifetime in the martial arts.
While I’ve spent decades teaching, I still see myself as a student first. No matter how old we get, we’re never too old to learn and grow. Here I will share some of my thoughts on training, philosophy, and the world of Kyokushin. I’m sure from time to time I will also write about what it’s like to still be training at this stage of my life. Getting older brings its own challenges. Some of you reading this may be able to relate! Osu!
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