Community Corner

Martial Arts Instructors Inducted Into Hall of Fame

Four teachers—or masters—from Master Bill's Karate join United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame.

Four teachers—or masters—from Waterford’s Master Bill’s Karate, including one from Lake Orion, have been inducted into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame.

This is the first time in the history of the 60-year-old organization that four masters were inducted from the same martial arts academy: 

  • Master Tom Butler, of Lake Orion, has trained for 15 years and specializes in self-defense.   His favorite activity is participating and leading Boy Scout activities such as hiking and other outdoor activities.     
  • Grand Master Bill Snyder, of Waterford, is owner of Master Bill’s Karate. Master Bill has over 60 years of experience and is a former Thai Boxing and Kick Boxing Champion. Master Bill is coach and trainer of 22 world champions in kickboxing, Thai boxing and boxing. Master Bill has schools all over the world and is a grandfather of 14.
  • Master Marvin Van Gilder, of Rochester, has trained for 40 years and has been with Master Bill the longest of any of his other students. He specializes in police tactics and maneuvers.   
  • Master Patrick Connolly, of Davisburg, has trained for 11 years and specializes in weapons.


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