Terry Boczar

Nanadan (7th Degree Black Belt)

Testing for Hachidan (8th Degree Black Belt) at the 2026 UechiCon!

Sensei: Neil Stone

Original Sensei: Mike Rozumek

Uechi Training since August, 1991

I began training in August 1991 after watching my son’s classes at Mike Rozumek’s dojo in Pepperell, Massachusetts. I wasn’t an athlete, and those early workouts were tough, but the warmth, work ethic, and sense of belonging pulled me in.

What keeps me training decades later are the people and the constant challenge. Karate has taught me perseverance—I’ve trained through injuries, surgeries, and arthritis, learning to work smarter as I age. Teaching newer students is one of my greatest joys; seeing a concept finally click reminds me why I show up. Test boards, seminars, and small technical breakthroughs continue to push me forward.

The dojo is also full of moments that still make me laugh: sandhill rolls during Shodan prep, chaotic tournament rings, and mini‑trampoline demo‑team kicks. Those funny, humbling, and proud experiences—along with friendships that have lasted a lifetime—are the true reasons I stay.