Welcome to Shorin-Kai International

Our school  has been providing authentic Okinawa's Karate and Kobudo classes for over 40 years. Our dojo is currently accepting admission for brown and black belt candidates who are looking for a deeper understanding of martial arts as a whole.

Shorin Kai International is an organization comprised of a plethora of senior students and teachers. The founder, Luis Fernandez was a direct student of O'sensei Eizo Shimabukuro and Charles Bonet, Hanshi. One of the main objectives of this organization is to preserve Okinawa's Karate and to build on the principles of the cultural aspects and styles of this rich and historical art.

When you join Shorinkai International Karate School, you become part of a supportive community of like-minded individuals. You'll make new friends and have the opportunity to participate in informative special training events.

Don't wait to start your Karate journey.  Contact us for more information.

Luis Fernandez, Hanshi – Founder

Luis Fernandez began his martial arts journey in 1967, training in Goju-Ryu under Sensei Art Aviles, a student of Hanshi Frank Ruiz in New York. In 1971, he transitioned to Shorin-Ryu under Hanshi Charles Bonét, a first-generation student of O'sensei Eizo Shimabukuro. Throughout the 1980s, he cultivated a close relationship with Shimabukuro and was appointed Shibucho (U.S. Director) for the Okinawan Shorin-Ryu International Association (O.S.K.I.A.).

From the 1980s until 2001, Fernandez played a crucial role in expanding O.S.K.I.A., facilitating training across the U.S. and receiving specialized instruction in Okinawa. His legacy was further solidified in 2001 when he was awarded the rare Karate Master Instructor license by O'sensei Shimabukuro.

In April 2024, Fernandez was promoted to Judan by Eiko Shimabukuro, Hanshi. He also holds a Rokudan (6th dan) in Goju-Ryu and Tae Kwon Do, awarded by Frank Ruiz and Wun Kun (Aquiles) Yang, respectively. His competitive career is distinguished by numerous Grand Championships in Kata, Kumite, and Kobudo, earning recognition as a top 10 fighter by Karate Illustrated. Notably, he won the All-American Grand Championship at Madison Square Garden in 1980, which was then the largest tournament in North America, hosted by S. Henry Cho.

Outside of martial arts, Fernandez earned his bachelor’s degree from St. Thomas University, graduating summa cum laude. With nearly 40 years of experience in law enforcement, he led defensive tactics and mental preparation courses for three agencies. Currently, he owns and operates Advice for Optimal Wellness, Inc., a functional medicine office, alongside his wife Ivette Espinosa-Fernandez, who serves as co-owner and Medical Director.

Our instructors are all experienced martial artists who are dedicated to helping our students reach their full potential. They'll work with you to develop a personalized training plan that suits your goals and abilities.