The Black Belts of L.I. Ninjutsu Centers
We are dedicated to providing our members with elite martial arts instruction. We are also committed to helping you develop the attitudes and behaviors required to reach BLACK BELT EXCELLENCE - in all areas of life. Our goal is for all our students to become focused, self-disciplined and confident individuals who have the utmost respect for themselves and others.
In our schools, we take great pride in all of our students, but we are extremely proud of those students who have endured, persevered and gone on to achieve their Black Belts. These individuals have surpassed many, others, to be able to stand proud wearing their Black Belt. Many students have received Black Belts from our school, but for a variety of reason, are no longer here training actively. The names and photos you see on this page are actively-training Black Belts within our schools. If a student stops training for an extended period of time, they are removed from this page, but even though they have been removed, we highly respect their hard work and dedication, and wish them the best in all they do.
Due to the many different systems the martial arts has to offer, the thousands of styles and the myriad of different philosophies, the martial arts has no governing body to police the specific systems.
What does that mean to the general public?
The answer is simple - there is no board certification, no state bonded licensing program, no official governing body through out the world of martial arts. When you enter into a martial arts school you do so at your own risk. Although this seems to be a scary proposition, I can tell you from personal experience there are some amazing and magical life changing martial art instructors on this planet. People who have dedicated their lives to helping others and sharing with them their experiences. These individuals should be commended and praised because they are self-less and continue to change lives one student at a time.
Unfortunately, there is equally as many unqualified martial arts schools and instructors out there. Remember you can purchase a Black Belt in any martial arts store and put it around your waist. In fact, I have some students who have done just that and moved on to run their own schools. Some make claims that they have acquired rank from other associations and have had it all along, but their ability proves differently. I even had a student who acquired the rank of brown belt and quit and convinced another instructor that he was a third degree and this other instructor validated that rank, lending his name and credibility to him. In the long run the truth came out, but not until many students were hurt by his antics.
You may be asking why am I bringing this up? The reason is simple, you may be wondering why it takes so long to become a black belt at L.I. Ninjutsu Centers. The simple reason is we want it to mean something. Remember, It is a buyer beware type of situation. For many students and parents they enter a martial arts school blindly. They do not do their due diligence and research the school, their qualification and their abilities. Due to the professionalism and credit to industry consultants, many martial art schools are taking on a more professional business model, which protects clients from the likelihood that a school will open and close. However, this type of professional environment doesn't ensure that all martial art schools are created equal. L.I. Ninjutsu has been open for just under 3 decades.
Also, there are no guarantees in life, so what you may see as a viable business and stable organization today, may grumble right before your eyes tomorrow. You may ask why am I telling you this as well?
The answer is simple: I am proud of the organization that we have built over the last 29. I want you to know, how proud I am of our instructors and our black belts and the legacy and history we have had.
Here are a few things that separate us from the rest.
1) In my school it takes a minimum of 5 years to acquire a Black Belt, in other schools you can get it in less then two years. In fact in Japan you can achieve Black Belt in one. This is not to say that the particular school that gives a black belt in less time is bad. They just have a different level of requirements and expectations to black belt. Sort of like a Dr. or an attorney compared to another field.
2) In my school most of our Black Belts have trained for a minimum of 8 years or more, especially if they are children. Which in our organization they have started as young as 3 and have trained almost their entire life, starting in diapers.
3) We have many people we give the title of "Sensei" out of respect. This means they have achieved Black Belt Status, but there are only a select handful that we allow to teach in our school. These are part of our stringent ITP/TLCD program know as "Instructor Training Program and Team Leadership Character Development program." This program is actually being taught in hundreds of schools throughout the world. This program was developed by Allie Alberigo - shihan. These students work hard every week learning how to be the best motivators, teachers and black belts possible.
4) All instructors - (instructors can be from the rank of Blue Belt on up) - have undergone a strenuous instructor training program. They have trained and proven themselves to have the capability, the mentality, the understanding and heart to transfer knowledge at their level. For example a junior instructor may be in our "TLCD" - Team Leadership Character Development program levels 1-3. They train each and every week learning methodology that allows them to either assist in class, do warm-ups or actually teach. These individuals are qualified, tested and reviewed before allowing them to take charge of a class.
5) Our Black Belt Instructors - "Senseis" are of a different class entirely. This is not to discredit the other Black Belts in our school or in other schools. Our licensed instructors have taken a specific instructor training program (mentioned above) and are given the privilege and honor to be called a true Sensei.
6) At any time this right can be taken away for a myriad of different reasons and this will be decided by Shihan Allie. The knowledge can never be taken away, but the right to teach in an official L.I. Ninjutsu Centers school will be revoked. If this is the case and this student now elects to teach elsewhere they can do so on their own accord, with no support whatsoever from L.I. Ninjutsu Centers.
7) We take this honor and responsibility to guide all of our students from 2 years old on up very seriously and are continually striving to improve, modernize and learn new methodologies to run a more professional school and organization. This is why it is mandatory for all instructors to continue training in order to keep the title of "Sensei." If they do not maintain their training and continued education they are no longer permitted to teach within L.I. Ninjutsu Centers.
The Black Belts students on our Black Belt page are not necessarily instructors, but they have achieved the rank of Black Belt but have not gone on to instructor status. Listed below are our licensed Black Belt Instructors which will have an indication of that next to their name and all other active training black belts within our school. We are proud of each and everyone of them.
Ryan Frank - San Dan - Third Degree Black Belt - Renshi
Ryan Frank has been training with me for over 20 years, starting at the age of 16 years old. In a little under less then a decade Ryan achieved the Renshi Title. Many people know him as "Renshi Ryan." He has grown from a young teen into an unbelievable young man. Over the years he has matured not only as a person but as a martial artist and an instructor and is currently the head instructor under Shihan Allie Alberigo in all of L.I. Ninjutsu Centers. He helps Shihan Run all L.I. Ninjutsu Centers in the U.S and abroad.
Having taught at all of our L.I. Ninjutsu Centers everyone knows him for his attention to detail and his continued dedication to the students. He truly takes a personal interest in everyone he comes in contact with. He continues to run our championship Demo Team "Team Okami," to heights unimaginable, while teaching private lessons in Kickboxing and Grappling. He is the second in command at our West Islip Headquarters school and East Islip locations which is not an easy position to fill. He also helps with consultation and instruction to all outside affiliate L.I. Ninjutsu Centers locations.
He is loyal and dedicated and I am proud that he is one of our most capable intructors within our schools. A few years back Shihan Allie bestowed on ryan the rank of Renshi for his dedication, ability and training knowledge. He is now permitted to teach and promote black belts within our schools. Renshi Ryan is also a very skilled BJJ competitor holding the rank of Blue Belt within the BJJ Community. He has recently taking Bronze, Gold and Silver medals in many of the BJJ competitions. He continues to train in Ninjutsu and is working on his 4th degree black belt while simultaneously training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Renshi Ryan was also 2016 Super Grand Champion for the NY Tournaments Circuit.
Shihan Allie Alberigo - founder.
About
I started training in the art of Ninjutsu when I was 16 and I achieved my black belt at age 20. Throughout my life I always wanted to learn martial arts and joining the Hanata dojo made that dream a reality. My goal in life is too continually learn new techniques and further my advancement in the knowledge martial arts has to offer.
Many different life lessons can be found in the martial arts, and it sounds odd that in seemingly aggressive arts such as Ninjutsu that things like self discipline, honesty, and respect can be found. In my martial arts training, I have found that patience is sometimes two breaths away. My teachers have shown me that my path in life should be righteous and respectable. I also learned that the easy way is not the always the best way, and to not let the little grievances bother me.
Learning the importance of understanding one's culture and the cultures of others can also be found in the martial arts. One of the best lessons I learned from studying with all of the the student creed, the instructors and students at L.I. Ninjutsu Centers is the ability to persevere through even the toughest of life’s obstacles that I will encounter.
At Long Island Ninjutsu Centers, when a student becomes a black belt they are also know as a Sensei. I started helping out at the dojo when I was a yellow belt. This took place about 3 years before I achieved my black belt. I learned many different lessons from all of my instructors and I’m forever grateful to them. I believe that they trained me to become a great instructor, especially Kyoshi Allie. Another one of my goals is, to truly be a Sensei who can show a student kata, technique or at least explain to the best of my knowledge how to defend themselves, and it's all thanks to my teachers.
Favorite Quote -“Rhythm is something that exists in everything, but the rhythms of martial arts in particular are difficult to master without practice.” (Miyamoto Musashi, The Book of Five Rings.) Favorite Weapon - Katana
Sensei Devin Fernandez - 2nd Dan - Nidan Sensei
has been studying martial arts for the last 14 years and has achieved a Nidan 2nd Degree Black Belt in Ninpo Ninjutsu at L.I. Ninjutsu Centers under Kyoshi Allie Alberigo. He has been living a life committed to training and discipline in martial arts and meditation. Having been diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa over 10 years ago Sensei Devin found himself wondering; “why me”, “what is this experience trying to teach me” and “how can I share my knowledge with others?”
It was at this point in his life, fully entrenched in his martial arts studies, that he made a determination to keep training despite the challenges his lack of vision presented. It was then that the vision for a full fitness center for the blind came to him in one of his meditations, hence the birth of Third Eye Insight; a fitness program of martial arts/self defense, yoga and meditation for the blind and visually impaired. Click here for our in-depth page on Third Eye Insight.
Sensei Devin now knows that his martial arts studies have provided him with the foundation for understanding the importance of developing not only his body, but his mind and soul as well. He is thankful for this experience, as it has deepened his spiritual practice. Together, with his daily ritual of meditation and prayer, he has found acceptance. Recently, he also joined the Long Island Chapter Networking group, EYE to EYE, further expanding his connections with members, and encouraging them to join him in this journey of self-discovery and improved health.
Sensei Devin’s first martial arts/self defense and yoga classes started on Saturday, May 8th at the L.I. Ninjutsu Center in West Islip, NY. EYE to EYE's own Chapter Board leaders, Frann Glick and Sally Braman, have attended classes and say this:
"I am truly enjoying the whole experience of Devin's vision. Each interaction has been amazing! From arriving at the first class- to hitting and knocking down volunteer instructors at the second! There is such person attention given to each participant. Devin's family and fellow dojo members have all been so welcoming and kind. I have been to two classes and feel as if I am going to see old friends and family when I go to the dojo. If nothing else, come to learn the lesson of “can” vs. “try”. It is so simple and logical! The martial arts class is right up my alley! I love the physical exertion and focus! It is an amazing feeling to "master" a move in class! There simply are not enough great things to say about this groundbreaking program!"
– Sally Braman
It has been an absolute pleasure getting involved with Devin and his wonderful family; sincere, genuine, and caring people. I especially enjoy the meditation. "Attitude with gratitude" is a quote I have taken away with me. Also, never say you will "try", say "I can do it!” My husband, Gary, has shown a great deal of interest and his encouragement has been outstanding. Being sighted, Gary is blindfolded as he experiences the challenges of temporary blindness combined with his permanent hearing loss. Talk about walking in another person's shoes! I encourage all to attend and give it a try. I feel something very special and positive in the making!– Frann Glick
Individuals with visual impairments are very capable of experiencing active lifestyles and greater independence; the goal of Third Eye Insight’s classes is to empower students by helping them grow stronger mentally, physically and spiritually.
For more information please contact Sensei Devin at 631-445-3464 or by email by clicking here.
Kiara is the daughter of Shihan Allie Alberigo - the founder. You would think this may have some priveledges at some point, however with Kiara she worked harder then anyone to achieve her black belt. In fact starting at 20 months old she was the longest training student who didn't achieve her black belt. She patiently waited and moved through all of the student programs such as Little Warrior, Mighty Warrior, Teen and now she is in our Adult curriculum teaching. Kiara always had a knack for working with young children for some reason they are drawn to her. She is passionate about her studies and just got accepted into college. Although she has spent her entire life at our dojo training, she will be going off to college shortly to begin her academic studies.
Sensei Dylan Adamson
Sensei Dylan started training at approximately three years old. He is now 17 as of 10/19/2024, and an instructor at L.I. Ninjutsu Centers. He has dedicated his life to martial art training and had been involved with our Team Leadership Character Development program since hs was about 8 years old. He is also an avid competitor in the N.Y. Tournaments circuit winning many black belt divisions and even put up for Grand Champion. He is an huge part of our teaching staff and an amazing young man.
The story of Sensei Frank Burgess goes back a long time. Sensei Frank is a long time student of Shihan Chuck Renaud, who is the founder of NInjutsu in Bermuda. Shihan Chuck trained originally under Shihan Felix Vazquez and within the Circle of One system. Shihan Vazquez was a direct student of O'Sensei Ronald Duncan who has family roots in Bermuda and has many students there as well.
Through O'sensei Vazquez, Shihan Chuck and Shihan Allie became training partners and friends and later became associated when Shihan Allie (renshi at that time) started traveling to Bermuda to teach. Later on they appointed Sensei Scott Dunstan (also a student of Shihan Renaud) to run the Hekigan Dojo of Bermuda. This school was a L.I. Ninjutsu Centers Branch school. Sensei Scott later moved on to other worldly endeavors and for some time, the dojo stopped teaching.
Sensei Frank Burgess received his black belt under Shihan Allie and re opened the dojo under the name Fudoshin - which literally translates to "Imovable Heart." Sensei Frank thought this was a fitting name for a dojo, that has stood 3 decades in Bermuda. Sensei Frank Continues to teach on a daily basis and most of the elder students are still training and visiting on a regular basis. You may get special training from Shihan Chuck Renaud as well as Sensei Scott Dunstan and other amazing teachers while training at the Fudoshin Dojo.
Sensei Bill Haviland
William Haviland has been training in the martial arts since January of 2013. He dedicated himself to training 3 to 4 days per week for 5 and a half years before attaining his probationary black belt in August of 2018. He is one of our eldest training students to achieve the black belt at age 57 and stands as a huge inspiration to young and older students. He tenacity in training, working through minor injuries and struggles that goes along with martial arts has been part of the journey. He never thought of the possibility of stopping or quitting. His dedication shows older students that they also can recognize their dream later in life as well. You are never too old to start the journey.
He works as a professional in the compliance industry at his company and started training in our Hanata Dojo Headquarters in West Islip. Ever since he was a young child he loved the martial arts and had taken a lesson in a number of styles and systems and had to stop. During Christmas break senior year his son asked him to do a martial art class with him. Since he was idle and lacking the social aspect of Basketball he decided to agree, and try out a class. He joined and has been training with his son ever since. He and his son Sam Haviland attained their black belt on the same day.
Bill feels that through his training he has attained many skills such as confidence even at his age. He has learned the importance of studying, focus, verbalizing and communication skills and it pours into what he does at work too. The black belt to him means so much in his own words: "the black belt means so much it is a tangible result of patience, hard work, consistent training and team work. It is only a stop on a continuing journey of a new beginning. The black belt is a responsibility to carry inside and outside of the dojo to live to a higher standard. Bill's Favorite quote is "Its not the size of the dog in the fight that counts, it is the size of the dog in the fight."
Bills favorite weapon is the Cane - because it is so practical and hidden and if used for self defense highly effective. Physically he enjoys one of his signature moves called "o'gyakku." While he loves all of his training he also loves grappling and feels it is both physically demanding and mentally challenging. One thing you may not know about this tall strong man is he loves to cook desserts, and loves to collect music of his favorite bands. He is also a collector of comic books, attends comedy shows regularly, is a movie buff and coaching his other sons basketball league to the senior division championship.
Sensei Tristan Buser
Sensei Tristan Buser has bbeen training since 2010 for 8 years he is currently 14 years old and in 9th grade of high school. He intends to go on to a be in the field of mechanical engineering or architecture. His parents signed him up to achieve more focus and discipline and he feels he has become more mentally and physically fit, since joining. Having a black belt means so much to him but in his own words he say "he has confidence that he can defend himself if necessary." His favorite quote is "the est is yet to come." Mark Businski.
His favorite weapon is the Bo Staff and he enjoys doing classical Ninpo techniques and one of his favorites that sticks out is Kata muna Dori. he loves grappling and on his down time he enjoys photography and astronomy.
Sensei Chris Craddock has been training with Shihan Allie for over 25 years. He started as a young student and graduated high school, went on to college and is now a father and husband. He has always found a way to stay active within the school and train no matter what his endeavors. He has always proven to be one of the most dedicated and loyal students that Shihan Allie has ever taught. He now lives in Westchester county, NY and still trains in person and via zoom.
His son James is also a student and is currently training as well.
Frank Olmeda 4th Dan - Renshi
is my longest training student. He began training with me in 1992 and has been here ever since. He is a true student and friend. Over the years we have traveled the world together going to places such as Japan, Bermuda, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Australia and throughout the United States.
Over the years he has proven to be an honorable man and has always done right by L.I. Ninjutsu and I. I am very proud of his accomplishments as a martial art student, as an instructor and as a human being. He works hard every day to spread his good nature and good heart to others as well as his mastership level of instruction. For those that have trained directly under him they know exactly what I am talking about.
In 2008, I bestowed the rank of "Renshi" 4th dan to him and he is one of the few who has ever attained this rank after nearly 22 years of dedicated training and due diligence to the martial arts. The rank of Renshi is junior master level.
