Legacy of Lessons

 August 1954 to May 4th, 2023

by C.S. Orobono

     Ralph Orobono, an individual who at 18 years old wanted to share his knowledge of sports through coaching, but also instill in his charges an understanding of how to live a principled life. There were many different facets to Shihan as he became known. These various parts from husband, father, manager, golfer, baseball coach to Shihan.

     Ralph carried threads of his wisdom through to each and every aspect of these diverse paths. Sometimes these courses would intersect, but there was never strife because he always kept the same mantra, "through fairness and hard work you will achieve!"  Shihan believed the way to a productive and happy existence was to continuously learn from issues that arise. He knew it was a positive to face your fears, not to run and hide from them setting precedence!

     Martial Arts, a sport with its multitude of lessons, has been part of our family for over twenty-five years. Shihan saw this as a new activity to share with his children but was drawn to the craft for all the philosophies it offered.  Martial arts has training on how to defend oneself, but more important, is the intellectual knowledge of being an Elite Warrior. A genuine strength of a Martial Artist is to release the ego and embody these inner qualities. This premise is a difficult journey and sometimes it is very easy to lose one’s way.
 

    Finding the right path again can be attained by embracing the concepts of martial arts. Your sense of assurance will come from the knowledge you have prepared properly, and clear-headedness will deliver the proper response.  Ralph always admitted to his missteps and he would say with a smile, "A martial artist will step to the side to correct but never step back!"  He relished his ever-strengthening decision making skills.  This step would lead him to new revelations.
 

     Upon attending local martial arts events, Shihan would speak of his frustration at the disrespect shown by many students in this craft.  Due to these conversations “Shihan's Warrior Path” guidelines for his Elite students were created. He wanted to give the best of these discoveries to his students.
 

     Shihan was an individual who cared deeply about everyone under his leadership. From teaching his children, at work and martial arts instruction, etc., he wanted everyone to have the tools to handle life's challenges. This is Shihan Ralph Orobono's legacy, to help everyone become more confident in whatever venue. He was never afraid to hold back, teaching all he knew and experienced throughout his 68 years!   His edicts will help his Elite student's push through their obstacles and see their accomplishments… 

                            "Be the best you can be"

                                 Shihan Ralph Orobono