Sensei Paul Hamilton and Sensei Phong Tran are promoted to 5th Dan, Renshi. Sensei Paul Recieves Shihan Certification

After more than 30 years in the martial arts and 22 years as an instructor Sensei Paul Hamilton has been promoted to the rank of Godan (5th degree black belt) Renshi by Hanshi Seiei Nakaza. After a grueling 7-hour test in which Renshi Hamilton and his top black belts showed the true depths of Kiyobu (pure warrior) spirit, Hamilton and Sensei Phong Tran, Hamilton's most senior student, where presented certificates of promotion to the rank of Godan Renshi, by Hanshi Nakaza, and Kyoshi Hobson.

Additionally, in recognition of his rich heritage as an instructor of Shorin-ryu Karate, Hanshi Nakaza also presented Renshi Hamilton with a Shihan Certification that internationally acknowledges his knowledge and skill as an instructor.

"The Shihan certification sets Renshi Hamilton above the masses," commented Kyoshi Brian Hobson. "He could take that anywhere in the world and traditional karateka will honor and respect it as a symbol of his knowledge and commitment to teaching."

In addition to Renshi Hamilton and Renshi Phong, Sensei Brain Butcher, SenseiTony Rosa, and Sensei Ravi Graham were all tested and promoted to the ranks of Sandan (3rd Degree), Yondan (4th Degree), and Yondan (4th Degree) respectively. Opel Jones, Ana Kupke, and Noah were tested and promoted the rank of Shodan (1st degree black belt) and will hence forth be regarded as Sensei.