Leadership Lessons from American Kenpo Karate 9th Grade Grandmaster Sean Kelley

Not only does he recount his own story, but he also adds value to other martial arts masters and students who practice martial arts.

Master Sean Kelley is a distinguished 9th Degree Black Belt (Master of the Arts) in Ed Parker’s American Kenpo Karate and serves as the President of the Chinese Karate Federation (CKF).

He began his martial arts journey in 1975 under Francisco Conde, earning his Black Belt in Moo Duk Kwan in 1983. After meeting Grandmaster Ed Parker in 1978, Kelley developed a deep appreciation for American Kenpo and, upon moving to Florida in 1983, dedicated himself to this art.

He established Kelley Karate Center, Inc. in 1985, which later evolved into Sean Kelley’s VIP Training Systems, offering quality martial arts instruction to both children and adults. Throughout his career, Kelley has trained under several first-generation Parker Black Belts, including Lee Wedlake Jr., Richard ‘Huk’ Planas, and Grandmaster Michael Robert Pick.

His commitment to the martial arts community is evident through his organization of seminars featuring renowned instructors such as Ed Parker, Bill “Superfoot” Wallace, Joe Lewis, Jeff Speakman, and Billy Blanks.

Internationally recognized, Kelley has taught in countries including the USA, Chile, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, and Canada. In addition to his instructional endeavors, Kelley has been involved in various community programs aimed at fostering self-confidence, encouraging self-discipline, discouraging violence, and increasing personal safety and awareness.

He has also collaborated with organizations like the Guardian Angels, contributing over 25 years of service. Kelley continues to share his expertise through events such as the annual “Zen of Kenpo” seminar held in South Florida, attracting martial artists from around the world.