Mario Priser

Started studying Karate on September 29, 1976 under Sensei Oretha Grant. When Ms. Grant decided to take some time off Mario began to study under Sensei James B "Jim" Cottrell.
In 1979 as a 2nd degree brown belt, Mario was undefeated in Ko Setume Seiei Kan Kumite and also awarded the title of 8th in Karate Illustrated magazine's black belt men's division. During this time he competed in many various tournaments in his early work up to black belt.
Mario was awarded his Shodon (1st degree) Black Belt in July of 1980.
Qualified for the United States, West Virginia Karate Team in 1980 until the team concept was eliminated.
After two more years of competition and hard work Sensei Preiser was awarded his Nidan (2nd Degree) Black Belt in July of 1982.
in 1982 Mario qualified for the United States Team but due to surgery and serious illness was unable to compete.
After a long break in Karate due to illness, Mario re-emerged on the Karate scene in June of 2007, taking instruction and teaching under Master Dale Thayer of West Virginia Seiei Kan Karate Academy in Clendenin, West Virginia.
His recent competitions include Kumite in August 2007 in Columbus, Ohio. In September of 2007, Sensei Preiser took 1st place in the Senior division at the tournament in Hebron, Ohio in spite of having several broken ribs. After a minimal two month recovery , Sensei Preiser completed in the USA Martial Arts tournament in St. Albans, where he took 2nd place in the Senior division.
Mario was awarded 2nd place at the Seiei Kan (AKJU) Nationals in Columbus, Ohio.

Sensei Mario Preiser