Michael Nolen began his martial arts training in Isshinryu Karate in January of 2008 under Sensei Wayne Ellis at the Karate Barn in Salisbury, MD, achieving the rank of yon-kyu (green belt).
In January of 2009, Michael began training at the Hombu Dojo of the Order of Isshin-Ryu, traveling weekly from Ocean City, MD to Elkton, MD. He became a student of Master Bud Ewing (ku-dan, 9th degree black belt). He trained diligently, attending weekly classes at the Hombu Dojo, in seminars held by senior OIMA black belts, and competing in tournaments.
In February of 2013, Michael earned the rank of sho-dan (1st degree black belt). Michael continued training in martial arts under Master Ewing at the Hombu Dojo until 2015 when his business grew and needed his attention. In 2019, he restarted his training at the Hombu Dojo. In 2023, he earned the rank of ni-dan (2nd degree black belt). Michael trains in Chi-Ryu Jiu-jitsu, currently a brown belt under Master Isham Latimer (ku-dan, 9th degree OIMA/Chi-Ryu Jiu Jitsu black belt) making regular trips to continue his studies at his New York Dojo.
Michael has continued his training with a well-rounded curriculum of OIMA Karate, Kobudo (traditional Okinawan weapons), and Chi-Ryu Jiu-Jitsu. Michael is a second-generation black belt in the Order of Isshinryu following his father, Sensei Jeff Bracone (san-dan, 3rd degree black belt).
Michael was given permission by Grandmaster Tody Cooling, his Sensei, Master Bud Ewing, and the OIMA Board of Directors to begin teaching students at his own dojo. In 2024, Michael started the Ocean Pines Martial Arts Academy to continue the martial arts legacy passed down to him by the OIMA.
Michael lives in Ocean Pines, MD with his wife Michelle and three children, Madison, Christian, and Matthew, and dog Capt. Tucker. He is a successful real estate agent and short-term vacation rental investor.