About Us
Join our amazing martial arts academy and let our family and experts help you achieve your goals in self-defense and fitness. Discover our variety of classes, and enjoy the journey of your change with us!
MEET Steven Haiser & Stefanie Haiser & SteFANIE HAISER
Owner & Head Instructors at ISR Karate Honbu Dojo
Meet the dynamic owners behind ISR Honbu Dojo, Steven and Stefanie Haiser. With a combined passion for martial arts spanning decades, their journey began in 1981 for Steven and 1993 for Stefanie, each achieving their 1st-degree black belts in 1986 and 2000, respectively. Today, they stand as esteemed 7th Degree black belt holders, exemplifying their dedication and expertise in the art.
Beyond their impressive martial arts achievements, Stefanie's exceptional contributions led to her induction into the 2022 USA Karate Federation Hall of Fame as both an accomplished athlete and an esteemed administrator. At ISR Honbu Dojo, their teaching philosophy revolves around empowering individuals to embrace martial arts as a transformative pathway to a better life. Whether you seek to bolster confidence, enhance physical fitness, or cultivate street smarts, the dojo offers a holistic approach tailored to each student's unique goals.
Embracing the essence of martial arts, they welcome those who are captivated by the rich culture and tradition inherent in this art form. Through an inspiring journey of self-discovery, ISR Honbu Dojo promises an enriching experience that leaves participants grateful for taking the first step. Join Steven and Stefanie on this transformative adventure and unlock the potential within you.
The Truth About Us: How We Became the Best Martial Arts School in Town
You might be wondering how we became the best martial arts school in town. Well, it's not what you think. It's not because we have the most students, the fanciest facilities, or the highest ranks. It's because we have the most passion, the most dedication, and the most fun. And we want to share that with you.
How We Teach Martial Arts Differently (And Why You Should Join Us)
If you are looking for a martial arts school that can help you achieve your goals, you have come to the right place. At our school, we teach martial arts differently from other schools. We focus on developing your physical, mental and emotional skills, not just your techniques. We also create a supportive and friendly environment where you can learn from the best instructors and peers. Join us today and discover the secret behind our success!
Shihan Ralph B. Chirico
In Memorium February 20, 1935 - November 11, 2020
The development and training of all the Black Belt Instructors at the Honbu Dojo come directly from our instructor, Shihan Ralph Chirico. Shihan (Shihan is a title for expert, master, or senior martial arts instructor) was a teacher, mentor, friend, and father figure to all of us.
Ralph Chirico was born on February 20, 1935, and grew up in Jersey City, NJ.
In 1963, Shihan Chirico walked into a karate school in Jersey City, NJ run by Sensei Don Nagle, head of the American Isshinryu System. He was promoted to the rank of Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt) in Isshinryu, in May of 1966. As a student of Sensei Nagle, Shihan Chirico also had the opportunity to study under Grand Master Tatsuo Shimabuku, when he came to the USA in 1966.
In 1967, he became the Sensei (Teacher) of his school in Carteret, NJ. It was also around this time that he transitioned from Isshinryu to Isshin Shorinji Ryu (ISR).
Shihan Chirico propagated the Isshin Shorinji Ryu system over the next 55 years.
The Isshinryu practitioners had admiration for Shihan Chirico as an instructor, a competitor, and a judge. Due to his reputation, ISR was accepted into the mainstream of karate on the East Coast.
By 1978, Shihan Chirico became the ranking active Master of ISR. In August 1994, some of the most distinguished Black Belts in America including Sensei Nagle bestowed the rank of 10th Dan in Isshin Shorinji Ryu upon Shihan Chirico. With this promotion, he held the rank of 8th dan in Isshinryu and 10th dan in Isshin Shorinji Ryu.
Shihan Chirico trained students at schools in Colonia, Woodbridge, Avenel, and Carteret NJ for almost 55 years. In that time, he promoted over fifty students to the black belt rank. His black belts have won numerous Grand Championships and awards. Shihan Chirico always prided himself on being able to train junior students and helping them grow to be fine men and women, and many of them have brought their children to be trained by him.
In November 2016, Shihan Chirico promoted Sensei Frank Mastroianni and Sensei Kevin Holton to the rank of 9th dan and entrusted them with the stewardship and proliferation of Isshin Shorinji Ryu as he taught it.
On November 11, 2020, Shihan Chirico passed away at the age of 85.
