Introduction: Transparency Before Anything Else
Welcome! Whether you’re already part of All Island Martial Arts or considering martial arts for the first time, this blog’s purpose is simple: transparency. Here, you’ll discover the experience of Soke Michael Hutchings, the philosophy behind the school, what makes it unique, and just as importantly what it is not. Martial arts schools differ widely in styles, systems, teaching methods, and philosophies. Understanding what you’re choosing before stepping onto the mat is essential.
This blog explores the past, present, and future of All Island Martial Arts. You’ll learn about the hybrid martial arts system, the values behind the training, and why the program is built around developing practitioners rather than fighters. The goal isn’t to convince you this school is for everyone, but to help you decide if this philosophy, system, and community are the right fit for you.
At its core, All Island Martial Arts believes martial arts should improve lives, build confidence, and help people become the best version of themselves. This blog exists so you can clearly understand what that means.
Part One: The Past
Soke Michael Hutchings’ History in Martial Arts
Soke Michael Hutchings began their martial arts journey over three decades ago. Like many, it started in a traditional school, learning discipline, structure, and foundational skills. Over time, these foundations grew into a deeper understanding: martial arts isn’t just a class it’s a lifestyle.
A formative experience came during high-intensity martial arts camps in the late 1990s and early 2000s. One memorable camp at a Boy Scout camp in Poughkeepsie, NY, lasted three days with intentionally uncomfortable conditions no heat, limited shelter, and long hours of physical and mental training. Training outdoors fostered a deeper connection to the art, fellow students, and the mindset needed to push forward when things are tough.
These experiences reinforced that martial arts should be challenging and immersive, because growth rarely happens in comfort. Training with others, learning from different instructors, and stepping outside familiar environments are key to development.
As the journey continued, Soke Michael Hutchings became deeply involved in tournament competition and judging, achieving the rank of Level Three Judge and traveling nationwide. Judging at events like the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Disney World provided valuable perspective on how martial artists grow under pressure.
Competing and testing in front of large audiences shaped their teaching philosophy, emphasizing preparation, humility, and meaningful challenges for students. Even after leaving the American Taekwondo Association, the lessons learned remained influential.
Part Two: The Present
Soke Michael Hutchings 2026
In the early 2000s, Soke Michael Hutchings explored different organizations, eventually joining the Eastern USA International Martial Arts Association (EUSAIMAA). This mixed martial arts association exposes instructors and students to multiple disciplines, including Taekwondo, Hapkido, Kung Fu, ground fighting, sparring, military-style techniques, and self-defense.
EUSAIMAA emphasizes tradition and recognition, such as the International Black Belt Hall of Fame, reinforcing respect, professionalism, and lifelong learning. In 2010, Soke Michael Hutchings received Sokeship certification, authorizing the creation and teaching of an independent martial arts system. In 2025, All Island Martial Arts was recognized as Sokeship School of the Year.
After more than 30 years of training, Soke Michael Hutchings remains an active martial artist, focusing on teaching and mentoring. The philosophy of Dado Sawan Taekwondo treats martial arts as a way of life, aiming to help students maximize their potential, develop discipline, and grow into confident individuals.
All Island Martial Arts is not a cage-fighting school. While students may participate in point sparring, the core philosophy centers on self-development, self-defense, and personal growth emphasizing practitioners, not fighters.
In 2026, the school continues to offer free community workshops, including women’s self-defense and stranger danger programs, open to the public at no cost. The purpose: serve the community, build skills, and bring people together.
Part Three: The Future
Where All Island Martial Arts Is Headed
The future of All Island Martial Arts is rooted in community, growth, and evolution. Soke Michael Hutchings is committed to providing the best martial arts experience by expanding exposure, not limiting students to one system.
The school will continue inviting guest instructors from various backgrounds, offering fresh perspectives and challenging students to adapt and grow. Martial arts should evolve, not remain static.
Operating as a hybrid system, the goal is not to promote one style as superior. To become well-rounded, exposure to multiple systems and philosophies is essential. The word “All” in All Island Martial Arts represents unity, inclusion, and shared growth.
Inclusivity is a core value martial arts is for everyone, regardless of gender, background, age, or ability. The school offers inclusive classes, including programs for individuals with disabilities. The focus remains on expanding, strengthening community connections, and helping students live better lives through martial arts.
Practitioner vs. Fighter: The Core Philosophy
All Island Martial Arts teaches practitioners, not fighters. The goal is not to teach aggression, but awareness, protection, and safe self-defense. Martial arts has evolved from combat and survival to a tool for personal development, leadership, confidence, and discipline.
Core Principles:
- Maximize your potential
- Become the best version of yourself
- Live your best life
Martial arts is treated as a lifestyle, aiming to develop leaders, not followers. If you’re seeking a pure fighting gym, this isn’t the right fit. If you want a school that evolves, challenges, and supports personal growth, this philosophy may align with your goals.
Closing Thoughts
All Island Martial Arts exists to serve its students and the community, built on decades of experience and a belief that martial arts should improve lives. This blog is about clarity, understanding the philosophy behind a school is as important as the techniques taught. Martial arts is a journey, and choosing the right path matters.