Meet our Instructors

Wayne Dean, owner and instructor of Dean's Okinawan Martial Arts and Self Defense School in Hollywood, Maryland, holds an 8th degree black belt in shorin ryu matsumura seito(show-rin ree-you mawts-soo-moo-ruh say-toe) An Okinawan martial art based on the teachings of Bushi Matsumura Sokon (1798–1890), traditionally preserved by Hohan Soken (1889-1982). karate.

With over five decades of experience, Sensei Dean has established a reputation for excellence in martial arts instruction, drawing from his extensive training under the late Fred Sypher, a direct student of fusei kise(foo-say kee-say) Fusei Kise (born May 4, 1935) is recognized as a formidable figure in Okinawan Karate, particularly within the Matsumura Seito Shorin-Ryu lineage. and Master hohan soken(hoe-hawn sow-ken) Hohan Soken (1889-1982) was the founder of the Matsumura Seito (Orthodox) style of Okinawan Shorin Ryu Karate. in okinawa(oh-kee-nah-wuh) An island in Japan known for its martial arts traditions.. Since founding the dojo(doe-joe) A place where martial arts are practiced. in September 2002, Sensei Dean has provided professional karate, kobudo(koh-boo-doh) The Okinawan martial art of weapons., and self-defense programs for both youth and adults, fostering a disciplined and supportive environment for personal growth and achievement.

Kirk Dean is the dojo's most senior student and instructor, having begun his training in 1993 with Sensei Wayne Dean and Mark Gillingham at the Park and Recreation Center. Over the years, Kirk has deepened his expertise in Shorin-Ryu Matsumura Seito through dedicated study with the late Sensei's Dan Buckner and Fred Sypher.

As the lead instructor under Sensei Dean, Kirk plays a vital role in guiding and mentoring students, embodying the tradition and excellence of the dojo.

Philip Dean has been studying Shorin-Ryu Matsumura Seito karate with Sensei Wayne Dean since 2002. Philip also studied under the late Sensei Fred Sypher who was a guest instructor at Sensei Wayne Dean's Dojo in Hollywood Maryland. Philip serves as Sensei Dean's primary instructor for the dojo's youth classes.

Chris Schumacher started studying Shorin Ryu Karate with Sensei Wayne Dean in 2004 after a deployment to Okinawa. Mr. Schumacher is also a 21 year veteran of the US Navy, serving with the US Marine Corps as a Hospital Corpsman. Chris assists Sensei Dean with instructing youth and adult classes.