On October 4, 2025 we held a seminar at our dojo in Puyallup that featured several instructors who presented a variety of skills and knowledge. Attendance was good and we had a great time sharing ideas and techniques.
Sensei Don Washabaugh opened the event with ideas related to Isshinryu weapons kata techniques and how they compare and are similar to empty-hand techniques, as well as key (and ki) principles of chinkuchi in our practice.
Sensei Dale Heidal presented his brand of self-defense, called TeJutsu, which combines karate and Aikijutsu techniques; the goals being to defend oneself adequately with minimal injury to the attacker.
Sensei Kraig Mott shared bunkai from Seiunchin kata that was different from most of the bunkai usually applied in this kata, which we all found very interesting and effective.
Sensei Mike Osborn, who has been a school teacher for 40+ years, shared valuable teaching strategies and sought feedback and ideas from the group of long-time instructors about our ideas and methods.
Time was also made for anyone wishing to demonstrate a kata or routine that might be considered unique, yet relevant, to Isshinryu or other Okinawan martial arts. Sensei Samuel Danh shared a form created by Shihan A.J. Advincula; Yudansha Apollo Heidal performed a nunchaku kata based on Chinto kata, as created by Sensei Pat Williamson (Mr. Armstrong’s student) in the early 1970’s; Sensei Heidal performed Shimabuku no Kama, created by Soke Eizo Shimabuku and taught to Heidal by Kyoshi Jerry Gould.
A splendid day was had by all. Many thanks to all who attended and brought great skills and energy to the event.
