Phillip Sauer

7^th Dan Yamashita Shorin-Ryu Karatedo

5^th Dan Yamashita/Matayoshi Kobudo

“Sensei Sauer is a dynamic teacher with tremendous insight into the practical applications and strategy of martial arts.” 

Sensei Sauer began his martial arts training in 1968.  He became a student of Master Tadashi Yamashita in 1970, and has enjoyed a close, personal, relationship with him since 1972. 

Along with his instructor Gerald Samson, and close training partner Tim Koch, Sensei Sauer established the Ki Mind & Body Karate School, on Milwaukee’s East Side.  Sensei Sauer took over as head instructor in 1975.

From 1975 to 1983 Sensei Sauer operated a concert security company.  He provided service at major music venues, throughout the Midwest, working with acts such as Van Halen, Diana Ross, Cosby Stills and Nash, Def Leopard, Bruce Springstein, and many more.

In 1979 he became the head of Martial Arts instruction at the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee.   Sensei Sauer developed Women’s Assault Prevention Program (W.A.P.P.) which has been part of the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee programming since 1980.  His classes at the University are fully accredited courses: a testament to the depth and breadth of his martial arts knowledge, as well as his exceptional instructional skills.   In 1994 Sensei Sauer founded the Young American Martial Arts Clubs, which provides quality martial arts instruction to students 14 and under, throughout Southeastern Wisconsin.

For more than 30 years Sensei Sauer has taught, and demonstrated with Master Yamashita throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia.  A few high points include demonstrating in Tel Avi, Israel (1986), the World-wide Okinawan Martial Arts Festival in Naha, Okinawa (1990), and annual seminars in Athens Greece and Plodiv, Bulgaria.