10th Degree Black Belt

Senior Master of the Arts

Founder of the American Kenpo Karate Association

 

(1946 - 2005) Prior to his studies in Kenpo Karate, Bill Packer had extensive martial arts experience in Okinawan-Te, Wing Chun, Tai Chi, and Boxing. His most significant prior training was in Boxing.

 

From 1964 to 1968, Mr. Packer served as a member of the United States Coast Guard Boxing Team. During this period, he achieved an undefeated record with over 30 wins. At an early stage in his career, Mr. Packer had already acquired a comprehensive understanding of fundamental principles prevalent in all martial arts, including mindset, pressing an opponent, skill enhancement techniques, physical training, and more.

 

Following his service with the Coast Guard, Mr. Packer dedicated himself to full-time training in American Kenpo Karate under the guidance of Mr. Tom Connor. By 1971, his exceptional skills, enthusiasm, and dedication had earned him the position of Southwest Regional Director for TRACO International. As Regional Director, he interacted with numerous schools, instructors, and students. While the physical aspects of American Kenpo were superior, Mr. Packer recognized the importance of incorporating more philosophical, traditional, and personal internal development.

 

In 1972, the Southwest region underwent reorganization and was renamed the “American Kenpo Karate Association, Ltd. (AKKA).” Under Mr. Packer’s leadership, his style of American Kenpo underwent a transformative journey, reverting to its roots in Chinese Ch’uan Fa.

 

Mr. Packer commenced his research by delving into the historical, philosophical, and symbolic significance of the animals, elements, and colors associated with Kenpo. He systematically incorporated these icons, categorized by belt rank, into the system. To ensure the integration of traditional Chinese philosophical concepts, Mr. Packer engaged the services of a distinguished professor of Chinese philosophy to conduct martial arts philosophy classes for instructors.

 

Concurrently, the evolution of AKKA kickboxing paralleled the intellectual and philosophical growth of the system. Following his observation of the inaugural World Karate Association (WKA) Championships, Mr. Packer recognized the potential of his expertise in mental conditioning, physical training, and combat techniques to elevate the trained AKKA kickboxers to international prominence.

 

Since its inception in 1974, AKKA kickboxing has established itself as a dominant force in global competitions. Mr. Packer’s contributions to the organization are as follows:

 

• 128 World Ranked Fighters

• 15 World Titles

• 8 North American Titles

• 8 U.S. Titles

• 3 Intercontinental Muay Thai Titles

• Regional Karate Champion for 7 years (Mr. Packer)

• Premier Inductee to Martial Arts Hall of Fame

• 1982 Kickboxing "Trainer of the Year"

 

In 1978, the AKKA and TRACO systems were amalgamated and further expanded.

 

Upon the passing of Mr. Connor in 1989, the TRACO and AKKA schools unanimously adopted the AKKA name and the renowned “Dragonman” logo.

 

Throughout his life, Mr. Packer maintained his position as the sole authority on the distinctive AKKA style of Kenpo Karate. As the president of AKKA, Ltd., he continued to engage in research, development, and enhancement of the American Kenpo Karate Association’s system.

 

The American Institute of Kenpo extends its profound gratitude to Mr. Packer for his unwavering mentorship and leadership throughout his illustrious career.