Left to right: Master Bill Viola, Ray Adams, Dave Zezza, Joe Bauccio.

The Allegheny Shotokan Karate Association is proud to announce the promotion of three black belt instructors to an elite level, 4th Degree Black Belt. Master Bill Viola, 8th Degree Black Belt, is the head instructor at the Allegheny Shotokan Karate Club which was established in 1969. Sensei Ray Adams is the senior student of the group, beginning his training at the club in 1970. At 70 years old, Adams is proof that age is not a hindrance in relation to martial arts training. Sensei Dave Zezza and Sensei Joe Bauccio each have over 20 years martial arts experience and serve as instructors. The group trains in North Huntingdon everyone Monday, part of a black belt only class with Master Viola and every Saturday with Sensei Ray Walters, 5th Degree Black Belt. The class motto is, “The Ultimate aim of Karate-do lies not in victory nor defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants.” Karate is a way of life for the trio, who already are working towards the next level in Shotokan Karate.