Meet the Team

Dojo Owner / Head Instructor

Ryukyu Kempo - 4th Dan, Shihan

Kyokushin Karate - 2nd Dan

Sensei David has made the Martial Arts a life long journey that has lasted for over 30 years and still going! With multiple Black belt degrees in primarily two styles, Kyukushin Karate and currently in Classical Okinawan Karate (RYUKYU KEMPO),  Sensei David has a passion for training and teaching what he has learned and applied over the years. Sensei is an active member of the International Okinawan Kempo Federation. With a wide network of other accomplished martial artists around world,  Sensei continues to explore and apply other associated Arts to his training and is determined to share his knowledge with those that want to learn. 

Other Stuff about Sensei David: 

✓ US Army Veteran 

✓ Bachelors and Masters Degrees

✓ Married and Father of three sons who also trained in Karate. 

Dojo Co-Owner / Business Operations

Ryukyu Kempo - 6th Kyu (Purple Belt)

Ilene was an accomplished Accountant for many years working in corporate entities such as KPMG, Deloitte and Ambi. With a husband and three sons that have practiced in the Martial arts, Ilene has been around Karate for over 20 years. 

Ilene manages the First State Karate Operations and is the person on the other end of the phone most of the time when you call us. 

Ilene also started her own training a year ago and assists with instructing our Little Lions Classes (ages 5-7). 

Other Stuff about Ilene: 

✓ Bachelors Degrees

✓ Co-Authored a Cook book

✓ Certified Dog Trainer

✓ Married and Mother of three sons who also trained in Karate. 

Instructor 

Ryukyu Kempo - 4th Dan, Shihan

Shotokan Karate 

Sensei Marven Hernandez journey began so many years ago. His primary studies have been in the Classical Okinawan Arts. First studying the ShotoKan Style of karate and have continued his education in RYUKYU KEMPO. Having been a teacher for many year In Westchester County New York now has joined us here at First State Karate sharing his knowledge and experience.  He continues his martial arts journey and education wherever and when ever he can, seeking to enhance his knowledge and passion for the martial arts with some of the best Elders and brightest in the arts world.  Sensei is also a certified instructor in Kick Boxing, Cardio Fitness, Kettle Bell Fitness and Spin biking. 

Other Stuff about Sensei Marven: 

✓ US Marine Veteran 

✓ Retired New York City Police Detective

✓ Father of two daughters who also trained in Karate. 

Assistant Instructor

Ryukyu Kempo - 2nd Kyu (Brown Belt)

Senpai John has been a student of First State Karate since we opened in 2020. He exemplifies the spirit of Perseverance. 

Senpai is an Assistant instructor of the Little Lions (age 5 -7) and Junior Classes (ages 8-12). John comes to First State Karate with experience in working with Kids as a youth group leader.  

Other Stuff about Senpai John:  

✓ Husband

✓ Musician 

✓ Magician 

Assistant Instructor

Ryukyu Kempo - 2nd Kyu (Brown Belt)

Senpai Abigail has been a part of First State Karate since its opening in  2020. Senpai is an Assistant instructor of the Junior Classes (ages 8-12).   
Abigail is passionate, dedicated and strives to help students reach their full potential. She promotes a positive and nurturing atmosphere, allowing students to learn and develop at their own pace.
When she isn't teaching, Abigail enjoys playing video games and taking leisurely walks in nature. 

Other Stuff about Senpai Abigail:  

✓ Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science

✓ Studying Japanese