About Shoshin Karate

Shoshin Karate is a martial arts school dedicated to the traditional art of Okinawan Karate.  Our philosophy is anchored by the 5 principles represented by each segment of the Dojo Kamon: Physical, Social, Mental, Spiritual, and Lineage.  Our mission is to guide and challenge each of our students to attain their highest level of individual performance in the martial arts.  

To achieve this mission, we utilize a traditional curriculum focused on the principles and teachings of the Okinawan masters to enhance our students’ confidence, ability, and spirit in the martial arts both in and out of the dojo.  We bridge the gap between training of old and modern day.    

Founded on February 1st, 2022, Shoshin Karate evolved directly from the foundation of US Budokai Karate of Albany, founded in 1987 by Hanshi William Reid (9th Dan)

The owner instructors of Shoshin Karate, Kyoshi Andrew Ballato (7th Dan), Sensei Michael Spadoni (4th Dan), and Sensei Frank Fleury (4th Dan) represent over 70 years of martial arts training. In addition to their duties as senior instructors/owners, they continue to train together to refine and further their personal knowledge of Karate.