Phil McElroy started training in Isshin-Ryu Karate in 1966 under Denny Shaffer. In 1967, Master Long offered his help to the Nashville School, and a friendship between the Nashville and Knoxville schools developed. Sensei McElroy was an active tournament competitor in the 1960s and 70s, and won numerous trophies during that time. He has served as president of the International Isshin-Ryu Karate Association and is a senior student of Master J. C. Burris.