A brief history of Uechiryu Karate

Uechiryu Karate is a traditional Okinawan martial art founded by Kanbun Uechi (1897-1948) based on the Chinese style Pangai-noon which he learned from his teacher, Shushiwa.

Under Kanbun and his senior students, including Kanei Uechi (his son) and Ryuko Tomoyose, the style grew and began to gain popularity in Okinawa and Japan.

Uechiryu was introduced to the United States in 1958 by George Mattson – the first American to be promoted to black belt. Bill Leith’s teacher, Buzz Durkin, began training with Mr. Mattson in 1966, eventually opening his own school in 1974.

Bill Leith began his martial arts training in 1995 at Buzz Durkin’s Uechi Karate School in Atkinson, NH. In 2004 he began assisting with classes, shortly after becoming a full instructor at the school.

Uechiryu is an in close fighting system which includes fluid blocking and striking with the development of a hardened, conditioned body. Self-defense movements are simple and direct – making them practical and effective.

Along with development of self-defense skills, Uechiryu at our school is practiced to elevate the mental and spiritual well-being of the practitioner. Through training the student will develop better focus and concentration, reduce stress, learn respect for others, and improve his or her overall health and fitness.

Training at our school is summed up in our principles of practice, our Student Creeds.

Remembering that the martial arts begin and end with respect, I intend to:

1.     Develop myself in a positive manner and avoid anything that would reduce my mental growth or physical health.

2.     Develop self-discipline in order to bring out the best in myself and others.

3.     Use what I learn in class constructively and defensively, to help myself and my fellow man, and to never be abusive or offensive.