Sensei Keith Fall
Keith Fall was born on June 14, 1971, and began his Wado-Ryu Karate training in July of 1983 under James and Jean “Coop” Zimmermann. Training several times a week, he advanced quickly and earned the rank of Sho-Dan in December of 1986.
In 1988, Mr. Fall represented the USEWF in Japan, competing both individually and as part of the Federation team. From 1989 to 1992, he served in the United States Navy and was stationed in Millington, Tennessee, which allowed him to continue his training during his military service.
After his discharge from the Navy, Mr. Fall returned home and began taking on greater teaching responsibilities within the schools under Mr. Zimmermann’s direction. On June 1, 1996, he married Niki Fall, who also trains and teaches Wado-Ryu Karate. Together, they have three children, all of whom have trained as well.
In 1998, Mr. Fall was promoted to Go-Dan, making him the senior instructor for Zimmermann Karate. In 2015, following the passing of Mr. Zimmermann, he became Chief Instructor. In 2023, after Mrs. Zimmermann stepped down, Mr. and Mrs. Fall assumed operation of the schools, continuing the tradition and legacy entrusted to them.
Outside the dojo, Mr. Fall has served with the Columbia Police Department since 2002, where he currently holds the rank of Sergeant in the patrol division. His law enforcement honors include the Police Star, two Life Saving Medals, the Sons of the American Revolution Law Enforcement Commendation Medal, and two Officer of the Month awards.
Within the USEWF, Mr. Fall has received numerous honors, including induction into the USEWF Hall of Fame, the Grandmaster Award, the C.T. Patterson Memorial Award, the Mr. Zimmermann Dedication Award, Karateka of the Year, and several appreciation awards.
Mr. Fall’s rank progression includes:
- 1st Dan — 1986
- 2nd Dan — 1989
- 3rd Dan — 1991
- 4th Dan — 1994
- 5th Dan — 1998
- 6th Dan — 2005
He currently holds the rank of 7th Dan with both the United States Eastern Wado-Ryu Karate Federation and the International Wado-Ryu Renmei, along with a Renshi Jun Shihan license.