YAMASHITA, Tadashi (1942- ) |
||
This was brought to the attention of the PTA, which realized they could not handle him. The PTA president, who was also a karate instructor, stopped by to pick up Tadashi after school. Always the warrior, Tadashi tried to fight him. The instructor grabbed the rebellious youngster and dragged him off to the dojo where he was taught the elements of kicking, punching, and, most important of all, discipline. Tadashi found his probation period very interesting. His destructive energy was channeled into a hidden talent. The young man had found an art form, a religion and a way of life. Sensei was awarded his black belt at the age of 16, in 1960. He captured the All-Okinawan Shorin-Ryu Free Sparring Grand Championship Title. In 1968, he visited Japan and tested before his Sensei, Shugoro Nakazato, 9th Degree Black Belt. Also on the panel was the famous Grand Master Chosin Chibana, 10th Degree Black Belt. Yamashita Sensei became the youngest Nanadan (7th Dan) in the history of Japan. Yamashita Sensei is also known for teaching the late Bruce Lee the use of the nunchuku. Yamashita Sensei is the foremost karate and kobudo expert in the United States today and the Head Instructor of Shorin Ryu in the United States
|
Tadashi Yamashita was born in Japan in 1942, but he considers himself an Okinawan. His father died when he was three, and his mother moved to Okinawa when Tadashi was eight years old. He lived in Okinawa until, at the age of 24, he came to the U.S.A. where he became a citizen. Sensei Yamashita's experience of more than 4 decades in the martial arts began at age 11. He was the roughest kid in school and picked fights with other students, as well as the teachers.