About Us

Sensei Michael A. Smith

Sensei Michael A. Smith is the founder and head instructor of the Martial Arts Studio in Rockledge, Florida, where he currently holds the rank of 6th Degree Black Belt. With over four decades of experience in martial arts, Sensei Smith is recognized for his excellence both as a competitor and as a coach.

Mr. Smith began his martial arts journey in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, later continuing in Melbourne, where he earned his 1st Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do under Master Pok S. Yun. Driven by a passion for open-style competition, he pursued further training with 5th Degree Black Belt Sensi Mike Green, who sharpening his skills in diverse disciplines.

Throughout the 1990s, Sensei Smith became a dominant force in competitive martial arts. He has competed in some of the most prestigious circuits in the world, including:

NASKA (North American Sport Karate Association)
WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations – World Champion, 1995)
IAKSA (International Amateur Karate Sports Association – 1995, 1996)

His titles include:

1995 WAKO World Champion
3-Time NASKA National Champion
Multiple State, National, and International Tournament Victories

He proudly represented the United States in several international championships and competed with Team Cuban America & Team Metro, one of the most successful martial arts teams in U.S. history.

In 1998, while attending St. Leo College, Mr. Smith’s martial arts path came full circle when he was introduced to Sensi Mike Foster, founder of the Yoshukai Karate system. That meeting reignited his passion and ultimately led to the incorporation of Yoshukai principles into the curriculum at the Martial Arts Studio—a system Mr. Smith credits as the true foundation of his martial arts journey.

Now with over 35 years as a dedicated instructor, Sensei Smith has developed numerous State, National, and World Champions. His passion for teaching and mentoring continues to inspire a new generation of martial artists, helping young people build confidence, discipline, and lifelong skills.

Sensei Billy Roberts

5th Degree Black Belt | Martial Arts Instructor | FAME State Champion

Mr. Billy Roberts is a seasoned martial artist with over four decades of experience in Yoshukai Karate. His journey began in 1982 under the instruction of Donnie Hair and continued with training under respected martial artists Bobby Bush and Pat Van Landingham from 1982 to 1991.

In 1994, Mr. Roberts earned his Black Belt under Sensi Michael A. Smith at the Martial Arts Studio (MAS), where he continues to train and teach. He attained the rank of 3rd Degree Black Belt in 1997 and achieved the distinguished rank of 3rd Black Belt in 2004, 5th Degree Black Belt in 2016, reflecting both his skill and dedication to the art.

Mr. Roberts is not only a lifelong student but also an accomplished competitor. He has actively tested his skills in both local and national tournaments. His competitive highlights include being named the 1993 FAME State Champion in Point Sparring (Intermediate Division) and again as the 1999 State Champion in the Black Belt Division.

As a senior member of MAS, Mr. Roberts combines deep traditional knowledge with real-world experience, offering students a rich and inspiring path of martial arts excellence.

Sensei Ryan Blair

4th Degree Black Belt | Assistant Instructor | Graphic Designer

Mr. Ryan Blair is a dedicated martial artist and instructor at the Martial Arts Studio under the direction of Sensi Michael A. Smith. With over 30 years of continuous training, Ryan has achieved the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt, reflecting his commitment, discipline, and technical skill.

Ryan began his martial arts journey at the age of 11 and quickly developed a passion for competition and self-improvement. Throughout his high school and college years, he remained a consistent student and competitor, earning the prestigious title of Heavy Weight State Champion on the FAME (Florida Amateur Martial Arts Events) circuit.

In addition to his role as an Assistant Instructor, Ryan is a professional Graphic Designer, combining creativity with precision in both the dojo and his design work. He plays an active role in mentoring students, supporting class instruction, and helping to promote the studio’s events and programs through his design expertise.

Mr. Blair brings a balance of tradition and innovation to the Martial Arts Studio and continues to be a valuable leader and role model for students of all ages.

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Site by Nathaniel Pettus