SHIHAN PAUL
FOUNDER / OPERATIONS DIRECTOR: Shirudo Martial Arts Academy
CREATOR / CHIEF INSTRUCTOR: Shirudō-ryū Hybrid Combat System
Shihan Paul is a highly respected martial arts master, educator, and community leader with over 35 years of experience across traditional and modern martial arts systems.
He holds the rank of 6th Dan Black Belt in Shirudō-ryū Hybrid Karate, along with internationally recognised 2nd Dan Black Belt rankings in Goju-Ryu Karate, a traditional Japanese martial art. He was also awarded 1st Dan Black Belt in Han Mu Do, a Korean system blending Taekwondo and Hapkido.
An internationally qualified Master Instructor, Shihan Paul has competed at state, national, and international levels, and is also a qualified tournament referee.
His lifelong dedication to martial arts spans training, competition, and the development of structured, high-level teaching systems.
As the Founder of Shirudo Martial Arts Academy and creator of the Shirudō-ryū Hybrid Combat System, he has established one of the Hills District’s premier martial arts schools, recognised for its commitment to excellence, discipline, and real-world self-defence.
His leadership continues to position Shirudo at the forefront of martial arts training and community-based education in the Hills District.
Leadership That Sets the Standard
Shihan Paul brings a depth of expertise that sets Shirudo apart, developed through decades of training across multiple disciplines, including:
- Go Ju Ryu Karate (2nd Dan)
- Han Mu Do (1st Dan)
- Judo
- Jui jitsu
- Gung Fu
- Kickboxing
- Boxing
- Okinawan Kobudō (Traditional Japanese Weapons)
This extensive background has shaped the development of Shirudō-ryū, a modern hybrid Karate system created in Australia and formally registered with Martial Arts Australia and aligned with the International Martial Arts Alliance.
A System Built on Experience
Shirudō-ryū represents the evolution of Shihan Paul’s lifelong training, blending traditional martial arts principles with modern, practical application.
The system is designed to deliver:
Structured progression Real-world self-defence Physical and mental development A clear pathway for students of all ages and abilities
At the Forefront of Community Education
Beyond the dojo, Shihan Paul is actively involved in community safety and youth development. Working alongside NSW Police, he has delivered anti-bullying and personal safety programs in schools, helping young people develop confidence, awareness, and resilience through practical, non-violent strategies.
This work, places Shirudo at the forefront of martial arts education within the community.
A Decade of Proven Success
Over the past 10 years, Shirudo has grown into a trusted and established academy in Castle Hill, widely recognised for its supportive environment and high standard of instruction.
Shihan Paul’s philosophy is simple:
Martial Arts is not just about fighting.
“It is about developing strong, capable, and confident individuals for life”
Driven by passion, experience, and a commitment to excellence, Shihan Paul continues to lead from the front, mentoring students, developing instructors, and shaping the next generation through discipline, respect, and personal growth.