INTERNATIONAL ISSHIN‑RYU KARATE ASSOCIATION

Master Pete Simmons

7th Dan, Board Member

Pete began training at Maryville Isshin‑ryu Karate School in 1984 and currently holds the rank of 7th Degree Black Belt.  He is probably best known throughout the Isshin‑ryu community for organizing and running the front desk at tournaments. He also organizes and coordinates various workshops and seminars for martial artists within the region, as well as leads nonprofit self-defense seminars and workshops for non-martial artists.

He has worked as an instructor in both the adult and children’s programs at Maryville Isshin‑ryu Karate School over the decades, taking great pride in passing down traditional Isshin‑ryu Karate through the lineage of Master Tatsuo Shimabuku and Master Harold Long. He also serves as an Adjunct Professor at Maryville College teaching credit and non-credit courses in Isshin‑ryu Karate.

Master Simmons has served as Membership Director of the International Isshin‑ryu Karate Association since 2000, until being appointed to the Board of Directors in 2024.

Notable Awards:

  • 1988 Maryville Isshin‑ryu Karate School Karate‑ka of the Year Award
  • 1992 Maryville Isshin‑ryu Karate School Instructor of the Year Award
  • 2008 Tony Award from Middle Tennessee Isshin‑ryu Karate Games
  • Kelly’s Heroes Classic Tournament 2011 Supporter Award
  • Outstanding IIKA Contribution Award, October 27, 2012
  • 2015 Outstanding Contribution Award, International Isshin‑ryu Karate Association