My name is Bill Stewart, and I began my Kyokushin journey in 1980 under Shihan J.R. (Swanny) Swanson while stationed at Naval Training Center-Orlando. By 1984, I was leading classes, and from 1986–1991, I taught at Swanson’s School of Karate in Orlando. In 1991, I founded Florida Kyokushin Karate.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of training with many notable Kyokushin 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-IFKK under Shihan Mike Monaco. I trained extensively with Shihan Bill Richards and attended multiple seminars with Hanshi Steve Arneil until 2001.
Following 9/11, I returned to active duty in the U.S. Navy, serving as a Master-at-Arms until retiring in 2012. I taught non-lethal weapons, defensive tactics, and use-of-force. Over the years, I’ve also trained in other martial arts, including Tai-Jitsu, Kobudo, and BJJ. Kyokushin, however, has always remained my foundation.
I returned to my home state of Texas in 2021. I reconnected with USA-IFKK that summer, and later that year, I launched Texas Kyokushin Karate—41 years after first stepping into the dojo.
This blog is a reflection of my journey—its lessons, struggles, and insights. While I’ve spent decades teaching, I still consider myself a student first. We’re never too old to learn and grow. Here I’ll share my thoughts about everything from philosophy to fitness and training, to the state of Kyokushin and maybe even what it’s like to be an “aging” martial artist. I’m looking forward to what comes next and sharing my journey with you!
