Master Chopper WHITE   

Master Karate and Fitness Instructor

Master Chopper White, son of our Grandmaster Shihan White was

ranked number 5 in the WORLD as a junior Blackbelt! He is an amazing

instructor and Martial Artist. He (along with his father) was inducted into the

National Blackbelt Hall of Fame as a “Living Legend”. He and Shihan are

the FIRST father/son team to EVER be inducted into the Hall of Fame! 

Master Chopper has been taking Karate since the age of three. He has since been featured in magazines, on TV, and radio as a young and accomplished Martial Artist who has “the world at his feet”!       

Master Chopper has traveled throughout the country to compete in tournaments including the invitation-only World Games in Florida in 2001. He was in competition with young Martial Artist from all across the globe. The best of the best! And as a result, was named number five in the WORLD.  Now, he is available to students at both local Kenaki locations. Master Chopper’s sense of humor and charisma keep children entertained and adults eager to learn. He is now a college student and the head floor instructor at one location, and an instructor at another.  His creative approach towards teaching is impeccable!       

Meet Our Certified Black Belt Instructors

SENSEI CONNIE FUNDERBURK   

Head Floor Instructor & Manager, Lancaster Location​​       

Through the Art of Karate Sensei Connie found a new spirit inside her. A spirit

that can endure more than she ever thought possible. She shows much strength

as a Martial Artist and Instructor. Her ability to make connections with children is

one of her greatest! She has the ability to maintain the focus of an active child

and to build the confidence of a shy one. By way of patience, a sweet smile, and

an authoritative voice, she speaks to all children.       

Now, she is training for more advanced Blackbelt degrees. She teaches up to 6 classes and private lessons per day. She has broken concrete slabs with just her hand. Sensei Connie has (along with her workout partner Shihan) found the strength to leg press over 1,000 pounds at the gym where she trains regularly. Wow! With both physical and mental strength in her corner, she will continue to grow and become a Blackbelt to be proud of.       

Sensei Connie’s first belt test was memorable; she says, “I tested alone with four Senseis and Shihan. It was long, intense, and taught me more about being a Blackbelt in the Martial Arts than nearly any other experience thus far. One of the Senseis was, three months later, killed in a car accident. Sensei D. Washington was a law enforcement officer.  He made a huge impact on me during those few hours on that day. After his death, I watched as powerful men, women, and children drew together to rebuild as a strong family-type unit. ALL Blackbelts should leave such an impression! I learned THAT from him. Through that test, I earned way more than my yellow belt and my KKC (elite demo team) invitation. After that test and that experience, I realized I may actually have the heart, drive, and strength it took to continue in the Martial Arts. Among true friends.”             

As a graduate from the University of South Carolina with an Honors Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and the Arts she works to build business everyday. She is now the head floor instructor and manager/co-owner of one Kenaki location, and still teaches and manages the office at both area locations. Her passion carries her from one location to the other, teaching both Karate & fitness. She says, “Even if its one child or student at a time, and it’s small, I have the ability to help people become better. I have become better myself. Although I understand that this is a never-ending journey; I can be my best right now. Thank you Shihan, my family, and friends.” 

ASSOCIATION, LLC

More Than Kicks & Punches

KENAKI KARATE​

SHIHAN WHITE, PhD/D.Ma.Sc.   

Franchise Owner, Kenaki Grandmaster Karate Instructor and Fitness Instructor         
 

Shihan White is our CERTIFIED 7th degree Blackbelt Hall of Fame Grand Master Instructor.  With World-Wide Championships and a Hall of Fame Living Legend and Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.  He and his knowledge, skill, and personality are known across the globe as a Master of his trade.  He has been inducted into his 2nd Hall of Fame, and has earned his Doctorate in Martial Arts Philosophies and Martial Arts Sciences! WOW!  He's truly the BEST around!  Our dojo is blessed to have not just his skill and technique available, but he is a regular part of each and every class, AND each and every student.  We, as students, are honored. Many instructors of his degree and experience instruct only the instructors, not underbelt students.  He does both, Dr. White instructs his instructors, but also each child and adult that enters his dojo.  He ensures that each member gets the VERY best!      

Dr.White has wonderful talents and has achieved honors in the Martial Arts world that are not just indescribable, but are amazing.  His love for teaching is surpassed only by his skill.       

He is a true Champion who has created World Champion students.  Shihan is a father of three. His teenage son is training for advanced degrees on his Blackbelt.  His son, Master Chopper White was inducted along with Shihan into the National Sport Karate Hall of Fame as a Living Legend at the age of 13!  They are the ONLY father/son duo EVER inducted.  As the driving force behind this business, Shihan is truly an amazing Martial Artist, businessman, and friend!