Martial Arts

Sensei Wayne Murphy’s journey in martial arts began in childhood, guided by his father, John Murphy, a Nanadan (7th degree black belt) in Shorin Ryu Okinawa Karate Do. This early exposure laid the foundation for a lifelong pursuit of martial excellence. In 1989, Sensei Murphy expanded his martial experience by joining an organization focused on simulated melee combat, engaging in both one-on-one and multiple- opponent scenarios. Through this hands-on training with a variety of weapons and combinations, he developed a deep interest in the fundamental principles of real-world combat. Over the next decade, he immersed himself in refining his technique and understanding of practical application through continuous participation. Seeking a deeper connection with traditional martial arts, Sensei Murphy began formal training in January 1999 under Sensei Ilene Smoger. He studied Okinawan Karate Do in both the traditional Shorin Ryu system, as taught by Grand Master Eizo Shimabukuro, and the kata and techniques of Shudokan Karate Do, passed down by Walter Todd—United States Shibuchō—under the lineage of Master Kanken Toyama. His dedication and discipline earned him the rank of Shodan (1st degree black belt) in both systems by June 2001. Today, Sensei Murphy holds the rank of Rokudan (6th degree black belt) in both Shorin Ryu and Shudokan Karate Do. He has had the privilege of training with world-renowned martial artists from diverse styles and traditions, continually broadening his perspective and skillset. Since 2002, Sensei Murphy has been passionately sharing his knowledge with students of all ages. He founded the Okinawa Karate Club of Lantana in 2008, and he and Sensei Rajesh Chathapuram founded the Okinawan Karate Club of Frisco in 2016. He believes martial arts extend far beyond self-defense—they foster confidence, ambition, physical fitness, discipline, and a profound sense of personal growth. To him, martial arts is a lifelong journey dedicated to the cultivation of Mind, Body, and Spirit—a path toward the perfection of character.