SHIHAN Mike Whiteside
ROKUDAN
(6th Degree Black Belt)
SHOTOKAN KARATEDO
Shihan Mike Whiteside began his Karate training in 1967 under one of the JKA's finest teachers, Master Ozawa. Shihan Whiteside received his Shodan (first degree black belt) in 1970, and went on to receive his Sandan (third degree) in 1993 from the West Coast Shotokan Karate Association founder, Sensei Edwin Hamile.
Shihan Whiteside joined the USKL in 1995 and in 2004 was bestowed the rank of 5th Dan. Shihan Whiteside has had the opportunity to train under such karate legends as Kancho Kanazawa, Sensei Enzo Ortega and Hediteka Nishiyama.
Shihan Whiteside is a firm believer that basics are the foundation of everything. His knowledge and command of the subtleties of Shotokan are a testament to his many years and dedication to his art.
Married to his wonderful wife Barbara, Shihan Whiteside has four children, one of whom he has promoted to Black Belt. Shihan Whiteside enjoys sailing, astronomy, fishing, hiking, and Sci-Fi fantasy shows, especially the Dr. Who series.
Photos
Click any photo to open the viewer
Click the upper right-hand X to return to this page
Video
Papers
Portait of Sensei Nishiyama painted by Sensei Mike Whiteside, May 2009
With MMA schools almost exclusively focused on sparring and applied techniques, I can see why they would at least initially hold greater appeal for young adults interested in quickly learning self-defense and not much else. But my own experience with karate has taught me just how rich with application our traditional art form is, and how much more TMA has to offer.