History

Okinawan Karate and Matsubayashi Ryu

A secret Art
Much secrecy has surrounded the evolution and practice of the Chinese, Japanese and Okinawan martial arts. This was particularly so in Okinawa. During the 17th century, Okinawa was invaded by the Satsuma clan of mainland Japan. All weapons were confiscated and the Okinawans turned to their native self defence art of Te as their sole means of self defence.

More than any single factor, it is was this occupation of Okinawa that led to the rapid and secret development of Te (closed hands).

A unique style
As chinese merchants travelled to Okinawa, and students of Te travelled to China new and different fighting forms caused the art of Te to undergo many changes. Between the 17th and 18th centuries Okinawa Te evolved to become Kara-Te (empty hands).

In the early days, there were two main systems of Okinawa Te – Naha-Te and Shuri-Te both relate to regional districts in Okinawa. From these systems the many styles of Okinawan Karate evolved. Matsubayashi Ryu evolved from the Shuri-Te system and belongs to the Shorin Ryu family. The popular Goju-Ryu style evolved from the Naha-Te system.

The 20th century
Karate emerged from its secrecy in the early 20th century and in the 1920’s it was introduced to mainland Japan. Its worldwide popularity increased significantly after 1945. Master Shoshin Nagamine founded the Matsubayashi Ryu hombu dojo in Naha city Okinawa in 1942.

Matsubayashi Ryu in Australia

Early beginnings
Matsubayahi-Ryu was established in Australia in 1971 by Phil Alexander through his association with Frank Baehr (Matsubayashi-Ryu), Quai Wong (Southern Mantus), Dean Rayner(Tong Soo), Pete Williams (Matsubayashi-Ryu and Southern Mantus).

The tradition and Australian school expanded through Ron Alexander’s efforts under the guidance of the Founder Shoshin Nagamine. The Sydney tradition continues with Sensei Andrew Scarborough.

The Matsubayashi Ryu system
Matsubayashi-Ryu is a complete system that provides a comprehensive method of self defence and self development. Its longevity in an environment that has seen many other martial arts schools appear and disappear stands as a legacy to the Matsubayashi-Ryu system’s effectiveness.

Matsubayashi-Ryu utilises an approach to training with cornerstones based in traditional kata, self defence and self development. Its unique approach bridges the gaps normally experienced by students wishing to study the way (Do) of the martial arts.