Virginian Becomes the First American Headquarters Chief of an Okinawan Karate Association

Hampton, Virginia’s, Brian K. Hobson has been appointed Director of the Okinawa Shorin-Ryu Kiyobukan’s headquarters in Okinawa, Japan.

Hampton, Virginia (PRWEB) September 12, 2013

Brian K. Hobson, a native of Hampton, Virginia has been appointed as the “So Honbu Cho” (Headquarters Director) of the Okinawa Shorin-Ryu Kiyobukan Association’s

Headquarters in Okinawa, Japan by the organizations Chairman, Hanshi (Grandmaster) 9th Degree Black Belt, Seiei Nakaza. This appointment marks the first time that an American has been granted the directorship of a karate association headquarters on Okinawa.

“Okinawa (Japan) is the birthplace of the Karate. However, Kyoshi (Master) Hobson has Karate of a quality to rival any senior student in Okinawa or anywhere else in the world,” quoted a representative of Hanshi (Grandmaster) Nakaza who presented Hobson with his promotion in Nakaza’s absence.

Karate is highly regarded by the Okinawan people, and is protected as a key cultural asset.

“I can’t put into words how humbled I feel by this appointment,” said Hobson. “I am not even sure that I fully comprehend the gravity of it at this point, but I pledge with my whole being that I will do everything in my power to make my teacher, my students, and the people of Okinawa proud of me.”

Brian Hobson is the owner and president of the Brian Hobson Karate Studio in Hampton, Virginia and has served as the Kiyobukan Association’s North American Director since 2008. A twenty-time U.S. National Karate Champion, former member of the, Olympic Committee sanctioned, U.S. Karate team, and an 8th Degree Black Belt, Hobson has been teaching Karate in Virgina since 1985. In his new position, Hobson will direct the standards and curriculum for all of the Kiyobukan Association members and perspective members worldwide.

About the Okinawa Shorin Ryu Kiyobukan

The Okinawa Shorin Ryu Kiyobukan (http://www.kiyobukan.com) is a traditional karate association founded by Hanshi (Grandmaster) Seiei Nakaza of Okinawa Japan. The association teaches Shorin Ryu Karate of the Matsumura, Itotsu, Chibana, Nakazato lineage with special focus on preserving the original fighting art of the Okinawan people. Founded in Itoman City, Okinawa the Kiyobukan has students around the world including nearly 1500 students across North America. For more information please visit http://www.kiyobukan.com.