"The Way of the Sphere" is a unique style taught only in the United States. Dennis Dwyer and his father, William R. Dwyer, combined their extensive knowledge in fighting and philosophy and created the system. William Dwyer also participated in the sport of boxing in which he eventually became a golden Gloves champion in the Bantam Weight Division.

 

 

 

 

In June of 1985, five of Dwyer's students, including Rick Hahn, Rich Braconi and Blaine Elmer, Bob Diduch, Bill Roberts and Marcia Din co-founded the American Karate Institute and continued to teach and enhance the style. Bob continues to teach the style at the local YMCA. In early 1999, a new ranking system was developed. The belts now consist of: white, yellow, orange, green, blue, purple, and, red with two ranks at each color; then finally black belt. In April 2000, Norm Dobo, Sr. and Gerri Willever assumed the major responsibilities of American Karate Institute. They continue to teach the style "Way of the Sphere." In July of 2001 Tammy Chmura become an active partner of the karate club.