In Memory of Grandmaster Kenneth Balliet
We humbly dedicate this association and the continued practice of Ryukyu Shorinji-Ryu Karate Jutsu to the life and legacy of Grandmaster Kenneth Balliet.
Through his wisdom, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the art, he shaped not only skilled martial artists, but individuals of character, honor, and strength. His teachings extend far beyond technique—they live within our spirit, our respect for one another, and our pursuit of lifelong growth.
Though he is no longer with us in body, his presence endures in every kata, every lesson, and every student who walks this path.
With deepest gratitude and respect, we carry forward his legacy.
Forever our Grandmaster. Forever our guide.
Ryukyu Shorinji Ryu Karate Association Instructors
Head Instructor: Michael Davies
My study of martial arts began in the early 1990s, training 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 laid the foundation upon which all of my later training would be built.
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 steadily through the system and ultimately earned the rank of Sandan (3rd Dan). His mentorship profoundly shaped both my technical development and my understanding of Okinawan karate.
After achieving 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. Our school was established with a commitment to disciplined training, personal growth, and the preservation of traditional martial values.
Shortly after the founding of the school, Grandmaster Michael Reed began visiting me at my school. 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 marked the beginning of my formal study of Ryukyu Shorinji‑Ryu Karate Jutsu.
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 earned the rank of Hachidan (8th Dan). Several years later, after extensive discussions regarding the future of the system and my responsibilities within it, Grandmaster Balliet expressed his desire for me to continue the training and preservation of Ryukyu Shorinji‑Ryu Karate Jutsu. Shortly thereafter, he 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.
Today, I remain committed to honoring that trust. My instruction is grounded in the principles handed down through my teachers, with a focus on disciplined practice, technical precision, and the preservation of authentic Okinawan martial traditions. Through my students and my continued work within the Ryukyu Shorinji‑Ryu Karate Jutsu system, I strive to uphold and advance the legacy entrusted to me.
Senior Instructor: Christopher Crispin
(bio coming soon)
Senior Instructor: Natosha Boop
My journey in martial arts began at an early age under the guidance of my father, Head Instructor Michael Davies. Beginning training at the age of five, I was immersed in a disciplined environment rooted in traditional values, technical precision, and deep respect for the art. These early experiences shaped both my development as a martial artist and my character as an individual.
As I grew older, my training intensified. In 2012, I began studying more rigorously alongside my father under Grandmaster Kenneth Balliet. Training four to five nights per week, I was introduced to the depth, discipline, and classical methodology of Ryukyu Shorinji‑Ryu Karate‑Jutsu. Under Grandmaster Balliet’s instruction, I developed a profound appreciation for authentic Okinawan martial arts and the principles that guide them — humility, perseverance, and unwavering respect.
In December of 2014, I was honored to be promoted to the rank of Nidan (2nd Dan) by Grandmaster Balliet. His mentorship extended far beyond physical technique; he instilled in me the values and responsibilities expected of a true practitioner of Okinawan karate.
Through continued dedication, study, and commitment to the art, I progressed further in my training. I currently hold the rank of Yondan (4th Dan), continuing to train, refine, and uphold the traditions passed down through my instructors.
Today, I remain committed to preserving the integrity of Ryukyu Shorinji‑Ryu Karate‑Jutsu. My focus is on disciplined practice, technical precision, and the transmission of authentic Okinawan martial traditions to the next generation of students. Through my teaching and continued study, I strive to honor the legacy entrusted to me and contribute to the future of our lineage.