Matthew Paulson

Rokudan (6th Degree Black Belt)

Testing for Nanadan (7th Degree Black Belt) at the 2026 UechiCon!

Sensei: Allan Azoff

Uechi Training since April 1999

Uechi Ryu has been an important part of my life during the twenty-six years I’ve been studying it. However, I’ve noticed that some of the reasons for my training have changed over time. Initially, I was motivated by the opportunity to share an activity with my children, as well as by the exercise and self-defense benefits.

Later, I was drawn to the sense of progress and continual skills development it engendered. I have no regrets about my practice, despite the multiple physical challenges I’ve experienced over the years. In fact, there have certainly been times when I was unsure if I should attend class on a particular day, but I cannot think of a single time when upon leaving the dojo after a workout, I wasn’t happy that I had come.

At my previous test, I spoke about appreciating the importance of the sense of community here, and I have come to recognize not only the value of the Uechi Ryu and my dojo, but, most importantly, the people who make it what it is.

For all these reasons I continue to train today. They have led me to place increasing emphasis on teaching and other ways of contributing so that those who follow me can have the same rewarding experience that I had.