Sensei Larry Waldridge is a lifelong Cecil County resident, dedicated community activist, and respected martial arts instructor. Throughout his life, he has remained committed to serving his community by coaching Little League and participating in numerous youth and community outreach programs.
His martial arts journey began more than 30 years ago when he attended a self-defense class taught by Grand Master Walter “Toby” Cooling and his close friend, Master Aubrey “Bud” Ewing. Inspired by their instruction, he dedicated himself to the study of Isshin-Ryu karate.
Over the years, Sensei Waldridge has competed in local and regional tournaments, including the prestigious annual Isshin-Ryu Hall of Fame Tournament in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. He has also participated in and organized martial arts demonstrations at community events and schools, promoting Isshin-Ryu Karate and the Order of Isshin-Ryu Martial Arts. Today, he holds the rank of Go-Dan (Fifth-Degree Black Belt) and serves as a board member of the nonprofit Order of Isshin-Ryu Martial Arts.
In 2017, Sensei Waldridge was inducted into the Grand Master Don Nagle Okinawan Karate Association Hall of Fame, receiving the honor of Outstanding Instructor of the Year. In 2023, he was recognized as a finalist for both Instructor of the Year and Dojo of the Year at the Isshin-Ryu Hall of Fame.
Beyond his volunteer work, teaching, and community involvement, Sensei Waldridge has proudly served his community in law enforcement for nearly 40 years. Throughout his career, he has been certified by the Maryland Police Training Commission as an instructor in multiple disciplines, sharing his expertise with fellow law enforcement professionals.
When not teaching or serving his community, Sensei Waldridge enjoys visiting other dojos, attending martial arts seminars, training, building lasting friendships with fellow karateka, and spending quality time with his family and friends. He also enjoys traveling and continuing his lifelong pursuit of learning and personal growth through the martial arts.