Master Kalaii Griffin’s first exposure to the martial arts was at the young age of eight. Master Griffin was a shy and skinny boy who was constantly being picked on by bullies and older children. Through his Asian grandmother’s encouragement, he was introduced to her nephew who in turn taught Master Griffin jujitsu for the next two years. This was the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the study of martial arts.
Over the years Master Griffin has trained under many of top masters such as Master Peter Urban, Professor Florendo Visitacion, Master Adriano Emperado, Dr. Daniel Pai, Master Ed Parker, Robert Trias, Sergeant George Harris, and Master Woody Chan to name just a few.
It was under the tutelage of Master Peter Urban (Founder of American Goju) that Master Griffin began to develop considerable body conditioning and power through proper use of the makiwara and conditioning drills. Master Griffin used to drive every week to the Little Tokyo and Chinatown dojos with his dog Tasha to train. If he was late for class, he was not allowed to work out. He would have to sit on the side and watch. He would then grab a hamburger and a shake; sleep in his car so he could be on time for the next day’s class. Master Griffin holds an eight degree in Goju under Master Peter Urban.
Master Griffin is one of the Keeper’s of the Torch, or 12 disciples of Professor Visitician (Founder of Vee Arnis Jitsu and Veejitsu). He regards Professor Vee (as he was affectionate called) as the high priest because he was such a spiritual and an adviser to him. Master Griffin is an eight degree in Veejitsu.
Master Griffin studied judo under Sergeant George Harris earning his first dan from the Armed Forces Judo Association in 1970. Sensei Phil Porter of the United States Judo Association later promoted him to fourth dan in 1995.
Master Griffin was the one that helped propagate Master Ed Parker’s American Kenpo in the east coast and served as his martial arts representative for many years. He was awarded his eight degree in American Kenpo in 1984.
Master Griffin studied under Dr. Daniel Pai in Pai Lum Kung Fu. Dr. Daniel Pai was a astounding performer and martial artist. While studying under Dr. Pai he learned swordmanship and weaponry. Dr. Pai promoted him to fifth degree in 1975.
In 1991 Master Griffin received his eight degree in Kajukenbo from the founder Sijo Adriano D. Emperardo.
In 1969 Master Griffin opened his first dojo in Springfield, Massachusetts. Along with the regular curriculum taught at his school, Master Griffin does special training for the hearing impaired and is fluent in signing & reading lips. Master Griffin continued to teach at his first dojo along with traveling worldwide conducting seminars up until his passing on March 7/08.