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| Master of Tapi -Tapi,
Ken Smith |
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It is one thing
to be a talented martial artist, but having
the ability to pass on that knowledge is
truly a gift. Ken Smith, Chief Instructor at
Modern Arnis Academy, is such and
individual. While Sensei Ken is an extremely
skilled and knowledgeable martial artist, he
separates himself from other instructors by
his ability to teach and help his students
understand both basic and complicated
techniques. Sensei Ken’s passionate love for
the marital arts is an inspiration to his
students. |
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| Sensei Ken began his study of
Karate when hew as 18 years old in a small Indiana
town. Later moving to Orland Park where he studied
Isshinryu Karate under Jesse Gallegoes, a 9th degree
black belt. It was in this style that Sensei Ken
earned a 6th degree black belt. |
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| He continued
to grow as a martial artists, studying
Modern Arnis and pressure points with George
Mazek, a 4th degree black belt in Modern
Arnis, however, it as his introduction and
training with Grandmaster Remy A. Presas,
founder and creator of Modern Arnis, that
impacted Sensei Ken’s training immensely.
Grandmaster Presas, know as ‘Professor’,
promoted Ken Smith to the level of Master of
Tapi-Tapi, the highest level of achievement
in Modern Arnis. He continues to pass on
Professor’s art, traveling all over the
United States, France, England, Germany and
Canada. Master Ken Smith is an active leader
of the International Modern Arnis
Federation. With Professor’s death, Ken
Smith persisted to grow in his martial arts
training. Through his friendship with Dustin
Seale, Grandmaster in Ryukyu Kempo as well
as one of Grandmaster George Dillman’s top
students, Master Smith was introduced to
Grandmaster Dillman. As Professor always
said, “if you want to learn the knock out,
you must go see George Dillman.” So, Ken
went to see George Dillman and has become a
student and a good friend. In October of
2010, Ken Smith was promoted to 8th degree
by Grandmaster George Dillman and is now an
active member of Dillman Karate
International (DKI). |
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| In addition, Master Smith is a
member of Jodoryu International, founded by
Professor T.A. Frazer. His grappling knowledge
continues to develop as he is a mentored by
Professor Frazer. |
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