Background of the Host School

The Isshinyru Karate Academy (IKA) of Pittsburgh had its beginnings in the spring of 1970 when William H. Duessel and Charles A. Wallace opened the first school. These two individuals had both studied with the founder of Isshinryu, Master Tatsuo Shimabuku of Okinawa when he came to Pittsburgh in 1964. The school transitioned in 1979 -1990 through the YMCA, to be re-opened in its own present location in the spring of 1990 under the leadership of William H. Duessel and Don Washabaugh.  Hanshi Duessel was the chief instructor and continues in this role.

The current roster of  17 black belt instructors represent each black belt level from first to Hanshi Duessel at nineth Dan. They provide instruction for adults, teens and children. These highly trained individuals offer well over 400 collective years of experience and achievements.

Members of IKA of Pittsburgh compete in karate tournaments on a regular basis  throughout the United States. Over the years they have assembled trophies and honors in many regional and national tournaments. Indeed, the successes of IKA-Pittsburgh members winning seven of the last 10 International World Karate Grand Championships along with many other students' successes have demonstrated the traditions of heart and dedication Hanshi Duessel has promoted in his IKA Pittsburgh School.   The collective accomplishments of Hanshi Duessel's students reflect his desire to see all WHD Affiliates raise their aspirations and training objectives.

IKA Pittsburgh is the only IWKA karate school in the United States to have as its chief instructor a 9th Degree Black Belt.  Hanshi Duessel has been training in the martial arts for more than 40 years. In 1964 his training in isshinryu karate culminated with three months of daily training with O'Sensei Tatsuo Shimabuku, the founder of isshinyru, when he visited Pittsburgh. Hanshi Duessel is a much sought-after master instructor for training seminars.