The team on the mat.

Sensei Luis founded the dojo in Abingdon and built it into Empire Dojo. He is a Godan (5th-degree black belt) in the Shisenkan Kobudo Federation and trains directly under its Kancho, Ron Kosen, including regular training in Japan. He also holds the Shisenkan title of Bushi (“Martial Expert”), the federation’s first level of mastership, awarded only after passing the Bushi test.

That traditional training is the backbone of Empire Dojo: an authentic lineage and a traditional Japanese jujutsu and kobudo curriculum, taught alongside practical modern self-defense.

Today he teaches the adult jujutsu class and the leadership program, and leads weekly training for every instructor on the team, so every class is held to the same standard.

Training since age nine and assisting in classes since twelve, Athena is a direct student of Sensei Luis and has trained in Japan with the Kancho of the Shisenkan Kobudo Federation.

Precise, energetic and nurturing, she connects with kids on a profound level.

A 4th Degree Black Belt working toward his 5th degree this year, Anthony has been training since age 13. Grappling and sparring are his specialty, and he is a true master of both.

He trains weekly with Sensei Luis and brings that grappling and sparring expertise to every class he teaches.

Training since age six, Sofia earned her adult black belt in 2025 at just 14. She works primarily with the kids' classes and assists in adult sessions.

Her philosophy: “Have fun while training and don't give up.”

A direct student of Sensei Luis, Jenna specializes in the youth programs and is exceptionally great with beginners.

Calm, focused and motivating, she creates a space where kids feel safe to learn and make mistakes: “Let's figure it out together.”