Brad Gardone - Hanshi
Brad has been training in Kempo for 45 years. He has a background in engineering and enjoys cycling and hunting. Brad enjoys discussing martial arts in terms of body mechanics and the flow of energy.
About Kempo Louisville
Rooted in tradition. Committed to community.
Our School
Our School
Kempo Louisville is a traditional martial arts dojo dedicated to preserving and teaching authentic Kempo in the Louisville community. We are not a sport karate school or a franchise — we are a dojo in the truest sense: a place of serious study, mutual respect, and lifelong growth. Our curriculum is rooted in the classical Kempo traditions of Okinawa and Japan, passed down through a direct lineage of dedicated practitioners. Our school is a chapter of Kiyojute Ryu, founded by Soke Bill Durbin. The name of our school is derived from Japanese, and translates to "School of Positive Spirit Gentle Hand"
Our Philosophy
We believe martial arts training is a path, not a destination. The techniques we teach are powerful and effective — but the deeper purpose of Kempo is to cultivate a peaceful, confident, and disciplined way of living. We train hard so we can live gently. We study conflict so we can avoid it. Every student who walks through our doors is treated as a partner in this journey. Kempo Louisville was founded by practitioners who trained for decades in the classical Kempo tradition before bringing the art to Louisville. Our lineage traces directly to the Okinawan and Japanese masters who codified Kempo as a complete system of self-defense and personal development. We take that responsibility seriously — every class, every technique, every belt promotion is an part of a legacy.
Our Instructors
Decades of experience. A lifetime of dedication.
Jeremy Briley - Hanshi
Jeremy started training in Kempo while at UK in 1994 (32 years). He is a teacher and loves wilderness adventuring. Jeremy focuses on the importance of physical fitness as a foundation of martial arts.
Matt Brown - Hanshi
Matt started training in Kempo while at UK in 1994 (32 years). Matt specializes in Tai Chi, guiding students through the principles of mindful movement, breath control, and practical self-defense.
Dan Spitler - Shihan
Dan has been training in Kempo for 29 years. He is an Architect and enjoys cycling and kayaking. Dan's martial arts focus is on personal development and maintaining good health through consistent training.