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Uechi-Ryu Karate (pronounced "Way-Chee Roo") is a system of self-defense from the island of Okinawa, Japan. Originally called Pangai-Noon "Kung-Fu" (pronounced "Pwan-guy Noon"), it’s roots lie in the country of China. It was renamed Uechi-Ryu Karate in 1940 in honor of an Okinawan named Kanbun Uechi. It’s name simply means "an empty handed system of self defense (Karate) in the style of (Ryu) Mr. Kanbun Uechi (Uechi)". Uechi-Ryu is a combination of the Tiger, Dragon, and Crane Chinese Boxing styles from the Fukien Province of Southern China. It combines the Power and Speed of the Tiger with the Grace and Balance of the Crane. When combined with the Philosophy and Breathing of the Dragon, it remains an effective medium for Self-Improvement, Self-Discipline, and Self-Defense. It’s core training lies in the life-long study of an exercise called "Sanchin Kata". Sanchin Kata is the oldest Kata (or Form) still practiced today and dates back nearly 2,000 years. Uechi-Ryu’s uniqueness can be seen it’s heavy use of Circular Blocks and Upright Stances. Uechi-Ryu strives to instill the Martial Art Virtues of: Modesty, Courtesy, Integrity, Compassion, Gratitude, Self-Control, Perseverance, and Indomitable Spirit.
Sensei Bill began his study of the martial arts through Kempo Karate when he was 11 years old under the instruction of Sensei Al Lima. Due to many family relocations, Sensei Bill was unable to achieve black belt at that time. At the age of nineteen he began studying Uechi-Ryu Karate under Sensei Dan Dovidio (Goffstown, NH) and achieved his Black Belt (Shodan) in only 3 ½ years. Now studying Uechi-Ryu under Sensei Mike Dedonato (Manhattan Beach, CA), he has since achieved the rank of 3rd Degree Black Belt. He has become an Official Referee for the International K.R.A.N.E Association and has experience in refereeing World Class Karate Tournaments. He has adapted and expanded his style for children as has been teaching children since 2002.  Bill Corriveau Garden Grove Anaheim |