Michael Spivey

I have been studying Tang Soo Do since before highschool (Class of '71), I currently hold a 4th Degree Black Belt in that. My instructor has been John Santiago my life long friend and mentor.

Began study in the Santi Style of Toyama Ryu Batto Jutsu and Itashikata Funzento Kobushi Ryu Jujutsu (Lit: Path of the Wrathful Fist) in 1974 when I became a 1st Degree Black Belt in Tang Soo Do. I hold 4th Degree Black Belts in the Santi Style of the Toyama Ryu and Itashikata Funzento Kobushi Jujutsu. Integral to the Jujutsu style is the study of the Jo is a "walking stick" style commonly used by Shinto Priests - Ranagi Shinto Jojutsu.

The Toyama Ryu Batto Jutsu is basically a study into all things bladed and sharp - Katana, Wakizashi, Tanto, Naginata, and Yari.

I have studied in the Wu style of Tai Chi Chuan. I was privileged to have been able to study Arnis/Escrima under Daniel Inosanto during my enlistment in the USN when I was stationed near his school in San Jose California. I am a archer, a discipline that comes very natural to me.

I like the bardiche as a pole type weapon and practice with one in place of a naginata.

The ability to grasp it near the head of the blade gives it a close quarter capability some other staff weapons do not have.