Okinawa-Te has many unique "katas" (choreographed movements) both with and without weapons. The Grand master Kihei Motobu, had only one arm. Because of his handicap, Motobu developed and perfected the circular block in which one hand protects both sides of the body. This is now a distinguishing feature of Okinawa-Te. Shihan Gordon Doversola, Master of Okinawa-Te, was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. He became interested in Karate at the early age of seven and studied Ju-Jitsu and then Karate under a number of masters while attending high school and later the University of Hawaii. After coming to Los Angeles, he met and became associated with the Okinawa Master, Teiken Nagusko, who was a native of the Islands and studied under the great one-armed Master Motobu. Mr. Doversola continued studying with Teiken Nagusko winning such degrees as the Brown Belt and the much coveted Black Belt of Okinawa-Te, and then the highest degree and designation, MASTER OF OKINAWA-TE.

Nagusko has never been affiliated with any organization nor has he established a school of his own. When he left Los Angeles, he requested that Doversola not affiliate with any other association and keep his school independent and orginal. Under the leadership of Shihan Doversola, the Okinawa-Te organization has become well known and highly respected. Mr. Doversola has served as technical advisor to the movie industry, has appeared on television, and lists many Hollywood stars as students of Okinawa te karate.