Rank: 7th Dan
School: Isshinryu of NJ
I started Karate training as a Freshman in Bayonne High School around mid-1977. At that time I remained in training for only about 6 months, I was introduced into the reality of Karate training, the hard work - dedication and determination. After High School I moved to California, completed College and returned to Bayonne, NJ - in 1985. After returning to Bayonne and starting my first full time job I restarted my Karate training at the 19th Isshinryu Dojo. Where I always had an interest in physical fitness and Asian Philosophy - my involvement in the 19th Street Isshinryu Dojo was through the friendship of some of the current students at the school (Bob Yura, Dennis Burnett, etc.). Around March of 1986 I started to assist at the Bayonne YMCA Karate Class (then being run by Jimmy Fakina) - and eventually took over as instructor when I reached Ik Kyu. I also started to assist at Steven Tech College Karate Club around 1989 and eventually took over as instructor when I reached Sho Dan and continued teaching there until around 1994. I also studied Aikido under Sensei Greg O'Connor at both the Eliziabeth and Morristown Aikdo Dojo's. I continue to study and teach at the AOKA Inc. Bayonne Isshinryu Karate School in Bayonne, NJ.