meet our instructors

Master Bennati began training in  Isshin-ryū  Karate in November of 1992 and in just six months, at the rank of orange belt, Derek began assisting in classes-sparking his passion for teaching. Fast forward to the year 1996 on January 13th, Derek was promoted to the rank of Sho Dan Black Belt and in 2000 he was able to take his Martial Arts training from a passion to a full time professional career. Master Bennati eventually earned the title of Sensei in 2002.  He received his Master’s Certificate after testing in front of a national board of the highest-ranking masters in IsshinRyu Karate on July 15th, 2013. He currently holds the title of “Renshi”, the official rank one receives at 6th degree black belt in Karate. Master Bennati’s Martial Arts journey took a monumental step in the year 2015, when he opened his very own school “Bennati’s Martial Arts” on August 3rd.

Sensei Shawl has been studying karate under Master Bennati since 2003. Kathy started her  training two weeks after her daughters, Mavis and Vivian, at the age of 39 and has not let her age be an obstacle. Although she had never considered learning a Martial Art before the enthusiasm and expertise she witnessed was too tempting not to try. Overcoming coordination difficulties and self doubt from childhood Kathy found a home in  Isshin-ryū  Karate. Her love for teaching others and spreading confidence she found in this art keeps her moving forward.

Mavis began training with Sensei Bennati in 2003 after winning  free classes in a Grand Prize Drawing. This stroke of luck became the best thing that ever happened to her. Shortly after joining, her mom and sister jumped on the mat too, making it a family affair. The dojo became a second home to her. She would never miss a karate event, whether it was a tournament, ceremony, family picnic or parade. She was a member of the Demonstration Team for many years and always a proud representative of her dojo. At the age of 12 she began assisting in children's classes and had her first job teaching in 2010. A lifetime of Martial Arts has made her into a very confident and strong individual. Her passion for teaching drives her to make an even better next generation of martial artists.

Sensei Higley started his Karate Journey fifteen years ago. At the time he started he was an incredibly shy and timid person. As time went on and as he advanced through the ranks he became a funny and outgoing individual. He enjoys sparring and assisting and instructing all age levels in the Dojo. The major attributes he has gained through karate are confidence and the leadership skills necessary to instruct classes. Not only are these valuable skills that he uses in the Dojo, but Sensei Higley uses his skills in the many group projects and college classes that he takes outside the Dojo.