Learn From Our Expert Instructors
Master Angie Spencer
Angie Spencer is a distinguished Isshinryu karate master and the Chief Instructor and owner of Spencer’s Isshinryu Karate in Fredericksburg, VA. She began her martial arts journey in 1988 through a women’s self-defense course, earning her black belt (Shodan) in 1993 from Grand Master Angi Uezu after demonstrating her skills before a panel of senior masters.
In 1997, Angie opened her own dojo after nearly a decade of teaching at the Rappahannock YMCA. A student of Master John Devine since 1995, she continued advancing in rank and knowledge—earning her Hachi-Dan (Eighth Degree Black Belt) in October 2025 during a visit to Okinawa.
Throughout her career, Angie has excelled in competition, securing titles such as Female Weapons Grand Champion and Female Kata Grand Champion at OIKKA tournaments, and has competed nationally in AAU and USAKF events.
Her contributions to the martial arts community were recognized when she was inducted into the Isshinryu Hall of Fame in 2022.
In addition to her martial arts achievements, Angie holds a Business Administration degree from Mary Washington College. She is deeply committed to helping students develop discipline, confidence, fitness, self-defense, and lasting friendships through Isshinryu karate.
our Instructors
Sensei Gail DeWitt
Sensei Charles Brittain
Sensei Charles Brittain
Sensei Gail began her journey in Isshinryu karate in 1992 and has since advanced to the rank of Roku-Dan (6th Degree Black Belt). She serves as the Head Instructor at Spencer’s Isshinryu Karate in Fredericksburg, where she passionately teaches both children and adults.
Gail’s teaching style focuses on helping students achieve goals and un
Sensei Gail began her journey in Isshinryu karate in 1992 and has since advanced to the rank of Roku-Dan (6th Degree Black Belt). She serves as the Head Instructor at Spencer’s Isshinryu Karate in Fredericksburg, where she passionately teaches both children and adults.
Gail’s teaching style focuses on helping students achieve goals and unlock abilities they never thought possible. With a dedication to building confidence, discipline, and real-world skills, she brings the spirit of Isshinryu to life in every class.
Sensei Charles Brittain
Sensei Charles Brittain
Sensei Charles Brittain
Sensei Charles Brittain, Ni-Dan (Second Degree Black Belt), is a dedicated instructor at Spencer’s Isshinryu Karate in Fredericksburg, where he brings passion and expertise to every class. Known for his leadership and skill, he recently led students through an impressive 100-repetition Wansu kata challenge, honoring Grand Master Uezu’s fa
Sensei Charles Brittain, Ni-Dan (Second Degree Black Belt), is a dedicated instructor at Spencer’s Isshinryu Karate in Fredericksburg, where he brings passion and expertise to every class. Known for his leadership and skill, he recently led students through an impressive 100-repetition Wansu kata challenge, honoring Grand Master Uezu’s favorite kata—showcasing his commitment to tradition and high standards.
His classes emphasize discipline, focused training, and character development, embodying the dojo’s core values of bringing out the best in ourselves and others. Sensei Charles helps students—both youth and adults—develop confidence, strength, and self-defense skills in a supportive, high-energy environment.
Sensei Emily Pylant
Sensei Charles Brittain
Sensei Guy Marangoni
Sensei Emily Pylant has distinguished herself as a dedicated student and competitor at Spencer’s Isshinryu Karate and currently holds the rank of Ni-Dan (Second Degree Black Belt). In July 2024, she captured 1st place in kata and 2nd place in weapons at the Isshinryu Hall of Fame tournament, showcasing both precision and power in her prac
Sensei Emily Pylant has distinguished herself as a dedicated student and competitor at Spencer’s Isshinryu Karate and currently holds the rank of Ni-Dan (Second Degree Black Belt). In July 2024, she captured 1st place in kata and 2nd place in weapons at the Isshinryu Hall of Fame tournament, showcasing both precision and power in her practice.
Training alongside peers of all ages, Emily exemplifies the dojo’s values—discipline, focus, and continuous improvement. Her achievements inspire fellow students and highlight the transformative impact of Isshinryu karate. Emily is a valuable instructor to students of all ages at Spencer's Isshinryu Karate.
Sensei Guy Marangoni
Sensei Charles Brittain
Sensei Guy Marangoni
Sensei Guy Marangoni is a dedicated practitioner and instructor at Spencer’s Isshinryu Karate. Known for his commitment to traditional Isshinryu principles, Guy focuses on helping students build confidence, discipline, and practical self-defense skills in a supportive environment. His teaching style emphasizes respect, perseverance, and c
Sensei Guy Marangoni is a dedicated practitioner and instructor at Spencer’s Isshinryu Karate. Known for his commitment to traditional Isshinryu principles, Guy focuses on helping students build confidence, discipline, and practical self-defense skills in a supportive environment. His teaching style emphasizes respect, perseverance, and continuous improvement—core values of the martial arts journey. Guy currently holds the rank of Sho-Dan (First Degree Black Belt) and is a great addition to the team of instructors at Spencer's Isshinryu Karate.