Master Stephen Young was born in Carthage, IL on January 10, 1955. He began training in the martial arts in 1968, with formal Isshinryu training beginning in Quincy, IL in 1971. Master Young also trained in a Japanese style at the same time. After achieving his black belt in both styles, Master Young chose to devote all efforts to Isshinryu Karate. During this time frame Master Young was a frequent competitor in both kata and kumite.

Master Young became an assistant instructor under Sensei Tuzzo and eventually opened up the Hancock County Karate Club in Carthage, IL. He continued his training under Sensei Jerry Tuzzo (Quincy) until such time that job requirements moved him to the Chicago area.

Upon arriving in Chicago, Master Young sought out the advice and direction of Grand Master Stephen Armstrong, based in Tacoma, WA. Master Young would travel to Tacoma, or bring Grand Master Armstrong to the Chicago area on a regular basis to continue training and to host seminars in the Chicago area. Through Master Armstrong, Master Young was introduced to many Isshinryu Karate-Ka, including, Grand Master Lewis Lizotte and Grand Master Willie Adams. Together, this group provided Master Young with ongoing support and instruction.

Master Young also began to open a series of Dojos in the Chicago area beginning in the 1970’s. The main school was located in Bolingbrook and remained open until the mid 1990’s. Master Young taught through commercial schools, park districts and Y’s for many years, until job related travel forced him to scale back. Now, Master Young operates out of his senior most student (Master Keith Smith) in Aurora, IL.

The American Okinawan Karate Association (AOKA) was headed by Grand Master Stephen Armstrong. Master Young became very involved with the organization and has now hosted many of the association’s annual tournaments and awards banquet. Master Young was appointed as a Board Member for the AOKA. With Grand Master Armstrong’s deteriorating health, Grand Master Lewis Lizotte became the head of the AOKA and also became Master Young’s instructor. On July 7, 2007, Grand Master Lizotte retired and named Master Stephen Young as the new head of the AOKA.

Over the years, Master Young has had the benefit of attending seminars, workshops and classes with distinguished masters such as Master Nick Adler, Master Sherman Harrill, Master Angi Uezu, Master Kichiro Shimabuku, Master Harold Long and Master Don Bohan. He has also cross-trained in Judo, Tai Chi, Boxing and Okinawan Weapons. Currently, Master Young is the Illinois State Director for the Weapons Connection Society under Master Peter Carbone.

 Master Young has received numerous awards such as: 

-         The “Spirit of Isshinryu”

-         Induction into the Isshinryu Hall of Fame

-         A Doctorate in Zen Chuan

-         Sensei of Sensei Nominee

-         Instructor of the Year

-         Numerous Kata, Kumite and Weapons Competition Trophies

Master Young continues to teach, promote Isshinryu Karate and conduct seminars throughout the country. He continues his personal training and attends seminars.  As the Chairman of the AOKA his goal is to work with other Isshinryu organizations for the improvement of the art and to make the AOKA a members’ organization focused on training and education.