Stephen Connor

Godan (5th Degree Black Belt)

Testing for Rokudan (6th Degree Black Belt) at the 2026 UechiCon!

Sensei: Bill Adams

Original Sensei: Buzz Durkin

Uechi Training since September 1990

My journey to this moment has certainly taken a winding path. I first discovered Uechi-Ryu karate in 1989 at the recommendation of my boss at the time, Mark Chagnon. Since the dojo was just up the street from work, he suggested I give it a try. I began training under Sensei Durkin and studied with him until 1991, when a new job took me farther south.

Fortunately, I was able to continue my training with Sensei Ray Soltis, who I had the privilege of studying under for the next two years. When I eventually returned to the area, I resumed training with Buzz and continued until earning my first-degree black belt. After taking some time away from karate, I found my way back to Uechi-Ryu around 2008, joining Sensei Bill Adams' dojo in Melrose. I've been training there ever since.

Uechi-Ryu has meant so much to me over the years. It has given me strength, flexibility, and confidence that I never imagined I could have. Just as importantly, it has introduced me to lifelong friendships and a community that continues to inspire me. I always look forward to training with the people in my dojo today, as well as reconnecting with those I first trained alongside more than 30 years ago at the Durkin Butokukai.

I would especially like to thank Sensei Bill Adams and his family, Jess and CJ Adams, for keeping me dedicated to and excited about Uechi-Ryu. I also want to remember the late Brian Murphy, whose demanding workouts pushed me to become stronger, both physically and mentally. Finally, thank you to everyone I have the privilege of training with—you make me look forward to every class and remind me why this art has remained such an important part of my life.