Black Belt Staff Instructors Robert Filby - Yon Dan Mr. Filby began his training in 1981 when the karate school first opened. He has trained in several different Karate styles and has a diverse knowledge of the arts that he utilizes in his instruction. Drawing from a military background, Sensei's Filby's rigorous and strict Thursday night class challenges and delights his students. Eli Uballe - Yon Dan Eli, affectionately known as Sensei Chay (Chi) to his students, he has been studying with Sensei Holloway for 29 years. Sensei Chay is skillful at being able to explain things in multiple ways in order to help students better comprehend what they are learning. Marianna Haggard -San Dan Marianna has trained with Sensei Holloway since 1996. She has competed and won numerous trophies in tournament competitions. She is the lead instructor for the "kids class", and brings a fresh perspective to teaching the younger students. Marianna has a bachelors degree in Music Education from Oakland University and works as a Paramedic for Star Ems and Pontiac Osteopathic ER. Christy Hupman - Sho Dan Mrs. Hupman is Sensei Holloway's daughter and has been training in the dojo since 1997. Mrs. Hupman is also a lead instructor for the "kids class" and is instrumental in making sure all aspects of the karate school are running smoothly while juggling her own two young children! Mrs. Hupman is an outstanding teacher and works as a neonatal nurse. Andrew Haggard - Sho Dan Mr. Haggard began taking since 1996. Andrew is an outstanding and extreemly talented Karate-ka. Andrew exudes leadership skills and is well respected for his talent and knowledge of the art by both young and old students. Tom Willman - Sho Dan Is a great instructor with over 6 1/2 years in the Dojo. He is dilligent and offers a unique prospective in Karate. Tom began with his son and now assists in teaching the Wednesday and Thursday class. Bob Burton - Sho Dan Mr. "B" is our beloved Senior Citizen Black Belt. He brings a unique view to the Dojo and is an inspiration to many with his persevering attitude. He has over 7 years in the Dojo with another 4 years in Isshin Ryu. He is the Lead instructor for our Senior Adults on Wednesday. Ben Haggard As one of the newest additions, Ben Haggard is just now settling into his new role as a black belt at the school. Ben has been with the school since he was very young and like his brother Andrew, is extremely talented and wows the students with his incredible flexibility, agility and strength. Ben is a great help with the kids classes and is appreciated by his fellow black belts. Nichole Moles Also a new black belt, Nicole has also been with the karate school since a young age. Nichole has a happy spirit and is a joy when she is in class. Nichole has shown much perseverance by not taking any time off during several recent knee surgeries, often participating in class or helping teach the kids from a pair of crutches. Now recovered from her surgery and building up strength, Nichole continues to improve and will certainly go far. |
| Daniel Asaka Holloway Born: Tokyo, Japan Residence: Wateford, Michigan Employment: Holloway LTD Education: B.S.B.A. - Management St. Jospeph College MBA - City University, WA Chief Instructor and Founder of Holloway's Isshin-Ryu Karate School, Waterford, Michigan. Sensei Holloway was born in Japan in 1952. His father an American serviceman and his mother was a native to the country. Sensei maintains his ethnic traditions and speaks conversational Japanese. Sensei Holloway began his martial arts training in 1968 at the age of 15 under Mr. Norbert Donnelly. Sensei Donnelly was a world class tournament and kick boxing champion. Sensei Holloway's black belt was confirmed under the direction of Louis Grinnell and he went on to receive the rank of 6th Dan under Alan Wheeler. In 1997 he was given the rank of 7th Dan by Sensei Harold Mitchum (9th Dan-Hanchi), also confirming was the late Sensei Sherman Harrill (7th Dan). Both of the men were Okinawan trained by Master Shimabuku with Mr. Mitchum receiving the distinction of Head Dojo instructor and highest-ranking American. Sherman Harrill was a leading seminar instructor and also held rank in weapons (Kobudo). Sensei Holloway was again promoted under Mr. Mitchum to the rank of 8th Dan in 2005. Sensei Holloway gives credit to these many fine men in his karate career. Sensei Holloway is also the winner of many awards himself. He was the OKU Kumite champion in 1987 (executive division). He is a two time recipient of the Master Shimabuku award. He is the Master's Division Kata Champion for Isshin ryu's largest tournament the "Hall of Fame" 2005 and in 2008 Sensei Holloway was inducted into the Isshin-Ryu Hall of Fame. He has also been recognized for his community involvement including the Civil Air Patrol and was given the "Outstanding Young Men of America Award". |
| Instructor Profile |
