Michael Davies
Founder and Head Instructor of the Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate Association, Michael Davies carries forward the responsibility of preserving, teaching, and transmitting the traditional Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu system.
Martial Arts Journey
A chronological account of Michael Davies' study, training, advancement, and continuing commitment to Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu.
Early Study — 1990s
My study of martial arts began in the early 1990s, when I trained informally alongside my brother while he studied under Grandmaster Michael Reed. These early experiences instilled in me a deep respect for traditional martial disciplines and established the foundation upon which my subsequent training would be built.
Formal Study of Shorin-Ryu
In the late 1990s, Grandmaster Thorold Davenport, a family friend and returning military veteran, formally undertook my instruction in Shorin-Ryu. Under his guidance, I progressed through the system and ultimately attained the rank of Sandan (3rd Dan). His mentorship profoundly influenced both my technical development and my understanding of Okinawan karate.
Williamsport & Shido Seimei Martial Arts
Following my advancement to Sandan, I relocated to Williamsport. During this period, Grandmaster Davenport introduced our Shorin-Ryu school to the Tomosa Bujitsu system under Grandmaster Tim Blackburn. Through this connection, I met Master John Powell, with whom I later co-founded Shido Seimei Martial Arts.
The school was established with a commitment to disciplined training, personal development, and the preservation of traditional martial values.
Returning to Classical Okinawan Karate
Following the establishment of the school, Grandmaster Michael Reed began visiting me there. Through our conversations, I expressed a renewed desire to return to the roots of classical Okinawan karate.
Recognizing this commitment, Master Reed invited me to train under his instructor, Grandmaster Kenneth Balliet. This invitation marked the beginning of my formal study of Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu.
Training Under Grandmaster Kenneth Balliet
Training under Grandmaster Balliet was exceptionally rigorous. I trained four to five days each week, often for several hours each evening. Through sustained dedication and intensive study, I advanced to the rank of Hachidan (8th Dan).
Over the following years, extensive discussions took place concerning the future of the system and my responsibilities within it. Grandmaster Balliet expressed his desire that I continue the training and preservation of Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu.
Shortly thereafter, Grandmaster Balliet promoted me to Judan (10th Dan). Before his passing, he entrusted me with the responsibility of preserving and continuing the traditional Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu training to which he devoted his life.
Continuing the Tradition
Today, I remain committed to honoring that trust. My instruction is grounded in the principles transmitted through my teachers, with an emphasis on disciplined practice, technical precision, practical application, and the preservation of traditional Okinawan martial arts.
Through my students and my continued work within the Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu system, I strive to preserve, teach, and responsibly carry forward the tradition entrusted to me.
Preserving the Tradition
The journey continues through dedicated training, responsible instruction, and the preservation of the principles and practices transmitted through successive generations of teachers.
Preserve the History • Honor the Transmission • Carry the Tradition Forward
About the Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate Association
Preserving the Teachings & Legacy of Hanshi Kenneth Balliet
Preserving a Legacy
The Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate Association was founded with the purpose of preserving the teachings and legacy of Hanshi Kenneth Balliet. Hanshi Balliet devoted his life to the study, refinement, and transmission of martial arts. Drawing from decades of training across multiple disciplines, he shaped Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu into a cohesive and effective system rooted in classical Okinawan principles.
Throughout his lifetime, Hanshi encouraged his students to understand technique not as rigid choreography, but as a living method adaptable to the individual. This philosophy— grounded in practicality, personal expression, and disciplined study—became the foundation upon which the system evolved.
From this mindset, a true method of self-defense emerged: one that honors tradition while empowering each practitioner to develop skill, confidence, and personal mastery. The Association continues this mission today, ensuring that the teachings of Hanshi Balliet endure for future generations.
Rank & Lineage Verification
The Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate Association preserves the documented transmission of Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu through its lineage, recognized ranks, and historical certification records.
Chōtoku Kyan
Chōtoku Kyan was one of the most influential teachers in the development and transmission of Okinawan Shorin-Ryu karate. His teachings emphasized natural movement, speed, timing, adaptability, and practical application.
Zenryo → Zenpo Shimabukuro → Michael Broadman
A major transmission branch through the Shimabukuro family and its continuation beyond Okinawa.
Seisei Yokoda
A parallel transmission emphasizing Kyan's principles of lightness, speed, efficiency and adaptability.
Shimabukuro → Toma → Nitta
An additional branch within the broader Shorin tradition contributing to the development of the system.
Hanshi Kenneth H. Balliet
Hanshi Kenneth H. Balliet developed and transmitted the technical and philosophical framework of Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu, bringing together traditional Okinawan principles, practical application, disciplined training, and personal expression.
Michael Davies
Continuing the transmission of Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu.
Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate Association
The Association exists to preserve, document, teach, and responsibly transmit the traditional Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Jutsu system for future generations.
Preserve the Tradition
The responsibility of preserving a martial tradition extends beyond technique. It requires discipline, integrity, respect for one's teachers, and a commitment to those who will follow.
A Dedication to Those Who Shaped My Martial Arts Journey
This dedication is offered in gratitude to three men whose influence left a lasting impression upon my martial arts journey.
Sensei Gerald Davies
My brother, Sensei Gerald Davies, was my first and most constant influence in martial arts. From the beginning, he challenged me to push beyond my limits and helped me understand the practical application of what I was learning.
His guidance, encouragement, and willingness to stand beside me through the many transitions in my martial arts journey were invaluable. It was through his support and belief in me that my path ultimately led to Grandmaster Kenneth Balliet.
For his unwavering commitment, brotherhood, and dedication, I will always be grateful.
Grandmaster Therold Davenport
A close family friend and brother in the martial arts, Grandmaster Therold Davenport introduced me to the world of Okinawan martial arts. More importantly, he taught me the value of dedication, determination, and perseverance.
Through his example, I began to understand that martial arts is not simply a system of techniques, but a way of life.
Like all journeys, there were challenges and setbacks along the way. Grandmaster Therold taught me that growth is not defined by the obstacles we face, but by how we recover, adapt, and continue moving forward.
His lessons extended far beyond the dojo and became guiding principles throughout my life.
Grandmaster Kenneth H. Balliet
Grandmaster Kenneth Balliet was the individual who profoundly transformed my martial arts training. His expectations, standards, and relentless commitment to developing both skill and character elevated my understanding of what it means to live the martial arts life.
He possessed a unique ability to challenge and humble a student while simultaneously inspiring that student to reach his fullest potential. Grandmaster Balliet taught me to focus on training, personal growth, and the pursuit of excellence rather than the politics that can sometimes surround rank and recognition.
When I seek to improve my training, refine my character, or ensure that I am walking the right path, I often reflect upon the lessons he shared. His influence continues to guide me, and his legacy remains deeply woven into my martial arts journey.
Though he is greatly missed, his teachings, example, and spirit continue to live on through those he influenced.
To these three remarkable men, I offer my deepest gratitude and respect. Their guidance, friendship, and dedication helped shape my martial arts journey, and their influence will remain with me throughout my life.
Historical Rank Certification
Historical document displayed for lineage and rank documentation purposes. Display image is not intended to serve as a reproduction of the original certificate.