Every Belt Represents Years On This Mat
Seven ranked instructors, one tradition — taught the same way Grand Master Heisner has taught it since 1968.
Grand Master Robert Heisner
9th Degree Black BeltOver 45 years as a student and instructor of martial arts, Grand Master Heisner founded Bushido Kai, blending techniques from Tae Kwon Do, Shotokan, Itosu Ryu, Wado Kai, Kyo-Kushin Kai, Bo-Jitsu, and Aiki-Jitsu into one practical system. He studied under Grand Master Park Jong Soo, a Korean National Champion and 9th degree black belt, and Shihan H. Otsuka, founder of Wado Kai.
He operated full-time schools in Buffalo and Niagara Falls, taught martial arts at Niagara County Community College from 1972 to 2001, and instructed at the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy. He also founded PRISM, a youth development program.
Grand Master Martin Drake
8th Degree Black BeltGrand Master Martin Drake began his martial arts journey in 1971 while attending high school, training under the guidance of Mr. Robert Heisner. He studied the art of Wado Kai Karate, earning the rank of Green Belt before expanding his martial arts training.
In 1977, Grand Master Drake tested for and earned his Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do under the legendary General Choi Hong Hi and Master Park Jong Soo, further establishing a strong foundation in traditional martial arts.
Throughout his decades of dedication to the martial arts, Grand Master Drake has continued to advance his knowledge, skill, and leadership. He was awarded the rank of 8th Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do by the Allied International Tae Kwon Do Council, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the art and his lifelong commitment to excellence.
In 2026, Grand Master Drake was also awarded the prestigious rank of 8th Degree Black Belt in Bushido Kai, recognizing his lifelong dedication, technical excellence, and service to the martial arts community.
Following the legacy of his longtime instructor and mentor, Robert Heisner, Grand Master Martin Drake has assumed the responsibilities of leading Bushido Kai. He remains committed to preserving the traditions, principles, and values established by the organization's founder while continuing to inspire and develop future generations of martial artists.
Instructors
Chris Poette
6th Degree Bushido KaiA senior instructor at Bushido Kai, Chris teaches both kids and adult classes with a focus on discipline and precise technique.
Dave Lazarz
3rd Degree Bushido KaiDave brings steady, patient instruction to the floor, helping students build fundamentals into confident technique.
Paul Colson
4th Degree Bushido KaiPaul teaches with an emphasis on practical self-defense application alongside traditional karate form.
Joseph Colson
4th Degree Bushido KaiJoseph works closely with students on conditioning and technique, helping every rank push toward the next belt.
Bill Whitmore
4th Degree Bushido KaiBill Whitmore brings a steady, disciplined approach to every class, helping students build strong fundamentals and the confidence to carry them up the ranks.
Train With Us
See what a class with this team looks like, or reach out with any questions.