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Monday 10am - 9pm Tuesday 10am - 9pm Wednesday 10am - 9pm Thursday 10am - 9pm Friday 10am - 9pm Saturday 8am - 6pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

Defense Arts Center

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Upland, CA
Defense Arts Center

Defense Arts Center
1842 W 11th st. Unit D Upland, CA 91786
(951) 204-0341
Upland Shotokan Karate

Sensei Ty Aponte is the owner of DAC, established in 1977 and is still going strong. The aspiration and goal of the Defense Arts Center / Upland Shotokan Karate League is to aid in the development of strong, discerning, responsible and well-rounded individuals. To do this we stress the development of all aspects or levels of martial arts training: physical discipline, self- defense, sport, artisti

c expression, meditation, philosophical/ethical development. The style of karate, which forms the foundation of our training, is called Shotokan, (Shoto was a pen name used by its founder, the venerable Gichin Funakohsi). Its origins are from Okinawa, but was later refined in the mainland Japan. Our teaching style is balanced, placing equal emphasis on hand and foot techniques. In addition, students will also gain equal proficiency in Kihon (basics), Kata (prearranged movements using offensive and defensive techniques), kumite (one step and free sparring), and self-defense. Aside from the physical aspect, we strive to adhere to the principles, values, and philosophies of the Budo art. The Defense Arts Center also provides training in Traditional Okinawan Kobudo (Weapons) as preserved by the Matayoshi Kobudo Kodokan International under the instruction of Dr. Dave Michelson; Iaido as preserved by the Araki Mujuinsai-ryu under the instruction of Sensei Tim Richmond, Aikido & Sword under Senseis Eugene and Sandra Morales and Katori Shinto Ryu (Traditional Japanese field combat, Sword & Weapons Training) under the direction of Masashi Odate Sensei (Menkyo/Shihandai). For more details please go to our website: www.Defense-Arts-Center.com

12/14/2025

A few days ago (12-9-25) my wife, Lynn and I spent the morning at the Cowboy Surfer Grill (Yee Haw!, kawabunga!) in Corona with Sensei David Blair (age 86) and his wife Sue. We had wonderful conversations over breakfast: we spoke a little of each of our past or present physical challenges and then a lot of reminiscing of the good old karate days – Sensei Blair’s former Shotokan dojo in Fontana where you could here him yelling incentives at his students from across the street “sit lower, punch harder, kiai louder”. And the countless students that he impacted and the many that would eventually go on to became black belts.

We talked about the inter-dojo competitions he sponsored, and the tournaments across So. Cal. and beyond he supported and the championships his students won, both nationally and internationally. We also talked of his training days with Nishiyama Sensei and the old school, knock ‘em down, drag em out, bare knuckle sparring with legends like Frank Smith, Ray Dalke, James Fields, and James Yabe, to name a few. “This is where I learned to be tough as nails from those exchanges,” Dave saying, “I was their punching bag” says the former Golden Glove Boxing Champion turned karate ka, but one doesn’t stand toe to toe with these warriors and not dish out your own licks.

Our friendship began in the 1980’s where we met at a Kanazawa Soke Shotokan seminar at Cal State Norhridge (CSUN) where Sensei H. Fujishima sponsored the event. (Side note: after Nishiyama Sensei’s passing I began my training with Fujishima Sensei (another great karateka) and was eventually honored to receive my SKIF Yondan).

We talked Blair's karate training in Japan and where he met his lovely wife Sue, and of their recent road trips they trekked across the states in their modified Winnebago camper van and the Timeshare they have in Hawaii which is one of Sue’s favorite getaways. Sensei Blair, due to some physical limitations, doesn’t get out as often as he would like. Occasionally good friends like Senseis: Vern Vaden, John Rellias, Scott Haga, and Dan Taylor will stop by spend some time, sharing good conversation over breakfast or lunch.

David still has that amazing BANZAI! positive outlook on life that is nothing but infectious and enjoys spending time with old friends. It was a pleasure seeing Sensei David Blair and Sue I look forward to future get-togethers. Osu!
If you would like to reach out to Sensei Blair, feel free to contact some of the sensei's listed above or myself from my website: www.Defense-Arts-Center.com

Sensei Blair’s Personal Karate Philosophy:
"Karate training and teaching is not something you do or learn but is who & what you are. For close to 60 years I have been committed to the code of Karate-do. My goal has been to take myself and my students to higher levels (in the dojo and in life): to reach national and international competition status. As a Sensei (coach) you must do what it takes to succeed. Success is built on time and self-discipline. Along with time you must believe in yourself and be undaunted by setbacks. Strive to develop your inner-self and character. Be a person with integrity and honor, resolved and loyal to the program only then will you reach new frontiers. My sincerest gratitude - is beyond words that I can express. To all my family, students and friends who’ve helped me through my difficult times with your kind thoughts, prayers, inspirations and support". Osu!
— David Blair
https://defense-arts-center.com/.../new-years-karate-kickoff

07/15/2025

This past Friday July 11th, I attended the funeral of a friend, James (Hawk) Hawkins: 1946-2025. It was a beautiful memorial given in full military honors at Riverside National Cemetery. Considering the circumstances, it was great to see familiar (fellow karateka) faces there in loving support. Unfortunately, I had a previous commitment and could not attend the after memorial reception. Everyone has their own beautiful story to tell about Jim, but never the less, I would like to share my introduction to the Hawk. Please feel free to forward it to others.

Back story: In the early 1970’s I was training in Shotokan out of New York City’s lower East side under Sensei Hector Martinez. In 1974 I moved to Claremont Calif. (as an existing 1st kyu shotokan brown belt) where I joined a Shorin Ryu dojo taught by Sensei Dean Pickard. At the time Dean was associated with the Statewide Karate League (Walter K. Nishioka & Richard Nakano Sensei) out of Riverside by way of Hawaii, who’s style of karate was a blend of Shorin, Shotokan, and Wado Ryu.
Update: In 1994 I went back to my roots and joined Nishiyamas LA central dojo.

It was 1976, I was 17, and full of myself, and scheduled to test along with others for my shodan at the USKL Claremont dojo. Before the exam Sensei Pickard said that he was bringing in a guest shotokan black belt from Riverside (Sensei Dalke’s dojo) to help out with the exam. Well, I figured this guest BB would be sitting on the panel. Dean had his own stable of brown and black belts that were more than eager to help out with the sparring. But he said he was bringing in someone special: in walks the Hawk, he was gi’d up, intimidating, knuckles wrapped in tape and he was there for only one thing, KUMITE.

In short, after the endless basics (kihon) training, kata, and self-defense all that was left was kumite. I don’t remember much, and I lost count of the group randori matches. After that Jim and I were the only ones on the floor – we bowed, exchanged a few blows, and then nearing the end of the match, of which I will ALWAYS remember, as we traded techniques he picked me off point by point. And then for his grand finale: as I threw a spinning wheel kick to his head he dropped to the floor and executed a drop spinning sweep kick that took out my support leg. It sent me flying and no sooner did my back hit the ground he finished me off with a reverse punch (kiai) to the body that left me gasping for air. I was completely floored, humbled, and in awe of how graceful and surgical he had executed this perfectly timed technique.

After the exam as many dojos do, we all went to the neighborhood Pizza Parlor. We partied, licked our wounds and shared stories the rest of the evening. Jim was a gentleman and all smiles in contrast to how I saw him in the dojo. I am happy to say, I was honored to have met Jim. He helped me with this rite of passage & initiation in receiving my shodan. Over the years, he would return to our dojo as a guest instructor and upon occasion when we crossed paths (tournaments, seminars, etc.), I would remind him of that day, and we would both share a few laughs. Osu!

RIP ol friend.

Respectfully, Ty Aponte

08/01/2024

In July ‘24, Lynn and I embarked on a three-week CELEBRATORY trip to Japan. Lynn is retiring this year after 30 years working as a middle school teacher at California School for the Deaf Riverside.
We had a great trip, visited many sights (pictures) including ancient temples and monuments, shopped, ate delicious foods.
Lynn, Amy and Ardene (Hula sisters) trekked Mt. Fuji, and on their way purchased a climbing stick to commemorate their experience, as a hiker makes the climb, different stations can be visited where they can get their sticks stamped with the elevation and station number. This makes a great souvenir as one adventures to the top of the mountain. Lynn and I trained at Shotokan Karate International Federation dojo with Kancho Nobuaki Kanazawa-our gis were drenched. We endured the sweltering heat/humidity, sporadic thunderous rainstorms, navigated our ways through the overcrowded streets and subway systems in Tokyo, we got lost a few times, but it was all a glorious adventure. We walked an average of 7 to 12 miles a day (city and suburban) and rewarded ourselves by spending time in traditional Onsen’s (Japanese hot springs). I could not help but notice how many senior citizens who were well into their 70’s, 80’s & 90’s hiking and being active – highly inspiring. At the end of the day, we would watch the elimination highlights of the 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament broadcasted from Nagoya. Sumo is 2nd most popular sport in Japan right behind Baseball. This stands out as one of the best experiences of our lives. The people that we met were very friendly and we were also able to gain some insight into Japanese culture.

Thank you, Shawn for your worm hospitality on the way out and Amy, and Ardene for your patience, guidance and company during the first two weeks. My biggest blessings are to Lynn who could not be a better mother, wife and soulmate to share all these wonderful experiences with. We had a wonderful time and made lots of great memories. The people that we met along the way were friendly and we were also able to gain some insight into Japanese culture. Now it’s time to rest and acclimate our circadian rhythms back in sync with US time change.

Defense-Arts-Center.com

03/16/2024

Katori Shinto Ryu Samurai Demonstration this Sunday March 17th '24 in Glendale CA: Kitano & Odate Sensei will perform samurai art from 11am and explain philosophy behind it. Besides that, Japanese calligraphy, music, snacks and dance. It is a great event to experience Japanese culture. KSR classes held in Los Angles and Defense Defense Arts Center, Upland dojo. Let them know that you were referred by Ty Aponte, For more details you can contact through our website: www.Defense-Arts-Center.com

02/19/2024

Pictured: Special New Years (2024) Karate Kick Off
Conducted by Sensei Dave Blair, assisted by Sensei Santiago
Upland Shotokan Karate League (USKL) dojo
Sat. Dec. 30th 2023 11-3:00 pm Thank you all for your support.
Sensei David Blairs Personal Karate philosophy
"Karate training and teaching is not something you do or learn but is who & what you are. For close to 60 years, I have been committed to the code of Karate-do. My goal has been to take myself and my students to higher levels (in the dojo and in life): to reach national and international competition status. As a Sensei (coach) you must do what it takes to succeed. Success is built on time and self-discipline. Along with time you must believe in yourself and be undaunted by setbacks. Strive to develop your inner-self and character. Be a person with integrity and honor, resolved and loyal to the program only then will you reach new frontiers. My sincerest gratitude - is beyond words that I can express. To all my family, students and friends who’ve helped me through my difficult times with your kind thoughts, prayers, inspirations, and support". Osu!
David Blair (8th Dan Shotokan Karate-do)

08/25/2023

Sunset Karate-Beach workout at Huntington State Beach, Aug. 19th, 2023. This past weekend, the evening before our dojo beach workout I received a text from one of my Black Belts asking: "are we still going to have the beach training due to the impending hurricane?"
My text response to him was: "Yes, it's still happening, and we sill test our grit, skills and stances in defiance against the Greek Gods: AE**US (God of wind) and ZEUS (creator of lightning, thunder, clouds, and rain) who will both, in their furry attempt to ravage, punish and uproot us with a category 5 hurricane. I, Ty of USKL spit into the wind (OK, bad idea), and I say bring it on, do your worst, I laugh in the face of danger". All in jest, though I hope my intentions are worthy and I do sincerely empathize for those individuals and communities affected by the storm.
Well, as intimidating as the weather was expecting to be in our region of SoCal. We could not of asked for a better day. Arrived at HSB at about mid-afternoon and secured a fire pit, Lynn and I swam, caught up on some reading and enjoyed the comfortable ocean breeze. The karate workout started at about 6:00 pm, beginning/ending with meditation, to the ebb and flow of the ocean waves. We trained Kihon, we did self-defense - taking advantage of a relatively soft sandy landing for take-downs. In the face of the crashing waves, got a little wet and reviewed kata. We ended training by 7:30 allowing just enough light to get settled in and get a fire started, chef Danny (IKA) grilled hotdogs, chicken, sausages. Everyone pitched in and shared drinks & food. The evenings use of the fire pit would not be complete without making SMORES followed by a few haunting ghosts’ stories. We then circled the fire pit, and each gave an introduction sharing a little bit about themselves, reveling some interesting background success stories of how the martial arts had challenged and changed their lives for the better. The main theme presented by the senior Black Belts was don't give up. If you are in a lull or have a priority (school, work, family, health issues) take care of it, do what needs to be done then get back on the mat, train and sweat. Seven times down, Eight times up. We all stayed until 10:00 pm (closing time), and parted ways knowing we all shared in a passion/activity we enjoy doing and, in the process, made new friends and/or rekindled old friendships. I am so grateful for the support of Seaside karate and IKA group, and of course team USKL (Upland Shotokan Karate League) dojo, thank you all for making the evenings training and after-training, eventful. Looking forward to doing it again next year. PS: if anyone wishes to join us in the future, just ask, we would love to have the company.

06/04/2023

UPDATE: Leo F. Shortle
First thank you all, for the overwhelming reception on Leo's behalf. He Loved life, his karate friends, Sensei's and Karate. A celebration of life party will be held in Leo’s honor at the Defense Arts Center dojo (1842 W. 11th St. Unit D, Upland, CA 91786) on Saturday June 17th from 5:30-8:30 pm, all are welcome to attend. We would love for Leo’s karate family and friends to come honor him and share your stories and memories of him. While the cause of death is not known, the Claremont PD found him unresponsive in his bed Saturday afternoon, and we are hopeful that he died peacefully in his sleep.

Sensei Leo was a longtime friend and member of The Upland Shotokan Karate League (USKL) dojo, and valued Sensei. He was well liked by everyone and know for his since of humor, wit, and karate Leo-isms. Information regarding services will be shared when we know more. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and the local karate community.

Leo’s Karate Bio:
Leo began his shotokan karate training in 1976 under Sensei Ray Dalke of the West Coast Karate Assn. He received his 1st deg. B.B. in 1979 and (See karate timeline) his 5th Degree Black Belt in October 2015 from the USKL dojo. Sensei Leo has taught Karate at Cal Poly Pomona and assisted Sensei Ty at Pomona College Shotokan karate PE Program. Sensei Leo has had the privilege to train under (among many others) legendary karate notables as Hidetaka Nishiyama, Frank Smith and James Fields. Sensei Leo believed in building a strong foundation through basics. Leo joined USKL in 1999 and with his experience and old school rough and tumble ways made him an asset to our dojo. He was formidable on the dojo training floor, didn’t back down in the tournament ring was an avid supporter of Dojo activities, seminars and Shotokan Training Camps, Sensei Leslie Safar would announce: "OK, Leo's here we can start now" and when teaching, Leo commanded one’s undivided focus, attention, and effort in his classes. He will be sorely missed.

Leo was born in Detroit, raised in Azusa Ca. Lived in Claremont, went to Bishop Amat Memorial H.S. studied Pre-med at Cal Poly Pomona, achieved a BS in Business Administration and taught courses in Production and Inventory Control at So. Cal. Community Colleges. For pictures, Leo-isms, and more go to his bio website:
defense-arts-center.com/leo-shortle

Leo’s karate timeline:
Started 1976 - Sensei Dalke
Shodan 1979 - Sensei Dalke
Nidan 1994 - Sensei Dalke
Joined 1999 USKL/Aponte
Sandan 2002 - Sensei Aponte/Whiteside
Yondan 2010 - Sensei Aponte/Whiteside
Godan 2015 - Sensei Aponte/Whiteside, Pickard, and George Sasano (JKA)

05/19/2023

Free Introductory Wing Chun class
With Sifu Stanley Tang
Teens & Adults, athletic attire
Classes are ongoing
Sat: 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Sun: 8:30 - 10:30 AM
Defense Arts Center
1842 W. 11th St. Unit D
Upland CA. 91786
(contact person: Ty Aponte)
[email protected]
For more info and phone, go to the website:
www.Defense-Arts-Center.com

02/11/2023

TAI CHI classes at the DEFENSE ARTS CENTER - UPLAND
SUNDAY AFTERNOONS AT 4:30 - 5:45 pm
This class is on-going

Tai Ji Quan is a slow-moving exercise to develop and balance energy and strength. The traditional values of the combined qualities of Qi Gong, meditation, flexibility, and self-defense are central. People of all ages enjoy learning Tai Chi as a healing art and a great addition to martial art training. We practice Yang Style Tai Chi. Training is one class per week (1 hr. 15 mn.).

Sifu Jonathan Snowiss has practiced Qi Gong, Kung Fu, and Tai Chi for 35 years. He lived in shanghai, China to study Chinese, Qi Gong, Tai Chi and various Martial Arts. He was the head instructor at wei Tuo Academy for 9 years. He has also given many lectures and has published "Climbing the Mountain: The Essence of Qi Gong and Martial arts", It can be purchased on Amazon.
Studio Address:
Defense Arts Center
1842 W. 11th St. Unit D
Upland, CA. 91786
Website: www.Defense-Arts-Center.com

02/05/2023

Defense Arts Center Presents:

Self-Defense seminar with Sensei Dan Taylor
Saturday February 25th ‘23, 11 – 1:00 pm
Youth (10 +), Teens and Adults
Fee: $25.00
Training Topics:
> Awareness, controlling distance, using Verbal Skills,
> Close Range Combat Skills: Knees & Elbows
> Goal: Not allowing yourself to get hit
The instructor: Dan Taylor 50-year veteran of the Martial Arts,
6th deg. BB Shotokan Karate & certified Krav-Maga instructor.
For Dan Taylor’s bio click here:
http://defense-arts-center.com/newsevents
Attire: comfortable Street clothes, sweats/gym wear, tennis shoes.
Location: Defense Arts Center
1842 W. 11th St. Unit D. Upland, Ca. 91786
Contact Ty Aponte: Cell 951 204-0341

04/19/2022

I came across this old pic. (well, I still had a full head of hair, not quite sure the date), taken after black belt exam for Ken Nakamura and Jeremy Brooke Straughn they came out from University of Chicago where Tom Reisz had started a (USKL extension) Karate club. Tom & co. produced some very fine karateka and he took the University club from about 1990-'96. Ken and Jeremy graciously took it over from about '96 - 2000. Standing L/R: Ken Nakamura, sensei Thomas Reisz, myself - Ty Aponte, Shihan Dean Pickard, and Jeremy Brooke Straughn. They were all a rough and tough bunch. Pic. was taken at our S. Monte Vista USKL dojo in Upland Ca. I apologize, because the pic. shows some water damage, & was stuck to the glass. Osu!

Address

1842 W. 11th Street Unit D
Upland, CA
91786

Opening Hours

Monday	10am - 9pm
Tuesday	10am - 9pm
Wednesday	10am - 9pm
Thursday	10am - 9pm
Friday	10am - 9pm
Saturday	8am - 6pm
Sunday	10am - 4pm

Website

http://www.defense-arts-center.com/

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