Universal Kenpo Karate Studios
A n I n t e r n a t i o n a l K a r a t e C o n n e c t i o n A f f i l i a t e S c h o o l
Promoting excellence in the martial arts since 1995
© Copyright 2009 Universal Kenpo Karate Studios, Joey & Sandra Cadena
All Rights Reserved.
Autobiography
I began my martial arts training in Jeet Kune Do during the Fall of 1992. While studying JKD for about two years, I successfully competed in several tournaments, fueling my desire to pursue a more in-depth martial arts experience.
During this search for knowledge, I came across the I.K.C.A.'s ad in Blackbelt Magazine and sent for the free preview video. I was extremely impressed with Mr. Sullivan and Mr. LeRoux's practical approach to Kenpo Karate –their realistic, practical method emphasizing spontaneity appealed to my search for the right system to learn. Shortly thereafter, in 1994, I joined the International Karate Connection Association and began my journey through the Kenpo system.
Throughout the years of training, I have had the honor of working closely with Mr. Sullivan and Mr. LeRoux in many seminars and at their California studios. I also had the benefit of utilizing their highly effective video testing and correspondence program. My journey has also been greatly assisted by Mr. Greg Hilderbrand, I.K.K.A. and A.K.K.I 4th dan. I have also had the privilege to work with many great I.K.C.A. practitioners like Mr. Hugo Rojas, 1997 and 2005 IMAC World Champion, and other Kenpo black belts like Mr. Frank Garza, 3rd dan, who have always been willing to share their knowledge which positively influenced my growth as a martial artist.
The most rewarding competitive event I ever participated in was the Black Belt Triathlon at the International Karate Connection Association Championships in Long Beach, CA and at the Amite, LA Seminars. I was fortunate to have earned three 1st place winnings, three 2nd place, and one 3rd place in the seven total triathlons I competed in from 1998-2002 and 2005.
On April 14, 1999, I returned to my studies of Jeet Kune Do under Mr. Burton Richardson by joining the Jeet Kune Do Unlimited High Performance Martial Arts Association. I was able to study with Mr. Richardson via a private lesson on July 16, 1999 in Honolulu, Hawaii and through video correspondence. I attained the rank of Phase 3 in JKD and was accepted into the Apprentice Instructor Program.
Joey Cadena, 6th Dan I.K.C.A. Kenpo
Certifications and Credentials
* I.K.C.A. 6th Degree Black Belt
* I.K.C.A. Certified Kenpo Instructor
* Head Instructor and Co-Owner of Universal Kenpo Karate Studios
* International Sports Sciences Association Certified Fitness Trainer
* Master of Science in Physical Therapy
