Dedication

This Isshin-ryu web site is dedicated to two men who gave their heart and soul to the perfection of the art of Isshin-ryu; Soke Tatsuo Shimabuku, the founder of the style and Grand Master Donald H. Nagle, the most proficient example of Shimabuku's art. It is through these two extraordinary men that the embodiment of karate itself was developed, nurtured and brought to life.

In the founder, Soke Tatsuo Shimabuku, we have a simple Okinawan farmer, born to the tradition of the “Empty Hand” practiced in his homeland for centuries before his birth. Studying from childhood, he became a Master in both Goju-ryu and Shorin-ryu karate, recognized by his peers as the greatest fighting Master on the island. However, Shimabuku was not satisfied that karate had reached it’s full potential as a complete martial art. Utilizing the unique mind with which he was blessed, he broke the boundaries of his station in life and the confines of his homeland of Okinawa . Interpolating every element of what he had learned from the styles and forms he had studied for so many arduous years, he adapted these techniques, into an innovative new style based upon pure logic and a simplicity that would revolutionize karate. This was the “Way of the One Heart.” It was Isshin-ryu, based upon new concepts, that would simplify fighting, into a relaxed system that conserves energy, avoids punishment and stops the opponent with  individual momentary application of force or focus. The style was so different and the basic elements in such contrast to all that had gone before, that it aroused, not acclaim or admiration, but shock and antipathy from the other leaders of the karate community.

As he always did, since it was his nature to follow the path that he believed would lead to the truth, Soke Shimabuku knew in his heart, that what he had discovered was wondrous and right and would prove to be a revolutionary concept that would change karate forever. His work has spread throughout the world and his many disciples spread the doctrine of this thoughtful man, in the full knowledge of his genius and the manner in which it has changed their lives, forever.  

Donald Hugh Nagle, was one of the original United States Marines, whose faith in and dedication to the concept of Soke Shimabuku's Isshin-ryu, would prove Tatsuo Shimabuku right and spread his fame across the world and his revolutionary style far and wide. Don Nagle became the symbol of Isshin-ryu and the essence of the style. His body, mind and spirit were to eventually move the concepts of Shimabuku to perfection. No one before him or after him so embodied the way of Isshin-ryu, the “One Heart.” He was not simply the embodiment of the totality of the concepts, he became Isshin-ryu.

He was never unmindful of what made Isshin-ryu so unique, every move he made, every technique he used was always within the boundaries of the spirit of Isshin-ryu, exemplifying perfection of the style. Eventually, this was recognized,  not just by Soke Shimabuku, but acclaimed by the leaders of Isshin-ryu who stated that he was the greatest fighter that Isshin-ryu produced and declared him Grand Master of Isshin-ryu. That step helped to unite much of Isshin-ryu, throughout the United States and engendered friendship and relationships that have proved to be lasting and helpful in promoting Isshin-ryu.

            Master Nagle once had a conversation with his student, Ed McGrath, and expressed astonishment and some dismay, that so many of his students had broken fingers and toes, over the years. Since Master Nagle had never thrown a kick, block or punch without proper form, snap and focus, he had never broken a bone. He saw this as a distinct lack of understanding on our part. He was, as always, correct. The injuries were a lapse in form, something which the Master never experienced. Isshin-ryu was a part of his body, mind and soul. He did not simply fight you with Isshin-ryu, he experienced Isshin-ryu every moment of his existence and it was innately known to him. It was as though the Creator had sent him to Shimabuku, to become the embodiment of all that Soke Shimabuku had brought forth from his knowledge and experience.

            These two men, Soke Tatsuo Shimabuku and Grand Master Donald H. Nagle will never be forgotten. Their knowledge, skill and unprecedented ability to innovate and bring to fruition, the thoughts by which they guided themselves, to bring Isshin-ryu's principles to it’s disciples, ensures that their memory will live within our hearts, for as long as anyone studies Isshin-ryu.  

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