Born and raised in Edmonton, Neil Dunnigan began studying Uechi-Ryu karate in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 1974, under Sensei Jim Maloney. Returning to Edmonton in 1981, Sensei Dunnigan began teaching traditional karate full time, spreading Uechi Ryu karate to Western Canada.

Sensei Dunnigan has traveled many times to Okinawa, the birthplace of karate, for intensive training with senior masters, including the late Master Kanei Uechi. Since 1989, he has been studying directly under Master Tsutomu Nakahodo, 10th degree black belt.

Sensei Dunnigan is surrounded by dedicated and loyal black belts, some of whom have been training with him since 1981. This includes a number of students who have achieved the prestigious rank of Godan (5th degree black belt) or higher.

In January 2010, Sensei Dunnigan was promoted to Nanadan, 7th degree black belt, by an Okinawan test board of 9th and 10th degrees senior masters.

A tranquil Zen rock garden and oriental artwork welcomes you. Off the foyer is a boot room for removing all footwear prior to proceeding to the reception desk.

This is where students sign in, guests are greeted and refreshments are purchased. The window provides an excellent view of workout areas, or you can go in and watch.

This spacious training area with its sprung wood floor can readily be subdivided into two unique spaces to accommodate specific class needs

Behind each traditional change room curtain is well-appointed space for changing.  Showers, a private washroom and direct access to the warm-up room are provided.

Access to the warm-up room allows students to supplement their training by using traditional body strengthening and toughening tools, as well as an 11 station universal gym