Close Quarters Combat Academy

For Group Class:

New students are paired with myself or another senior student. We go over basic blocks, and footwork. Once a basic foundation is established I teach the principles that the system is founded on. The E.A.T.T. (evade, attack, take balance, takedown) principle is the core formula for our Self-Defense system. Self-preservation is the primary goal. Techniques are interchangeable but the principles are what make the system so effective. Then I begin to build the core skill set of the cqc system.

For Private Students:

I do a movement assessment to find out what their level of physical ability is as well as any prior skill sets they may have. I also have a detailed and candid conversation with them about their goals and expectations. It is important to know what motivates them to seek lessons and what they want to learn. Then I tailor fit a training program to them based on their skill and fitness level to optimize the time it takes them to develop proficiency in a core skill set. One they become accustomed to the core movement patterns and have become profient in basic skills I allow them to pressure test those skills to build confidence; before expanding the scope of their training.

I have been studying martial arts for over 15 years. I have a background in Judo, BJJ, Hapkido, Kali, and Silat. I am profient with a variety of traditional martial arts weapons as well as improvised weapons; such as sticks, knives, bats, guns, ropes/cords, bottles scarves, and hat's. I participate yearly in several full contact fighting events in which weapons are allowed. I do this to test what technique work best to defend against a variety of different types of weapons and attackers. 

I got started teaching martial arts after several female friends asked me about Self-Defense techniques following a violent encounter. After I shared my knowledge with them both urged me to start teaching other people and offer my services to the greater community. Martial arts has always been a passion of mine so the transition into teaching came easily for me. However I wasn' prepared for the gratitude my students have shown me over the years. Heart warming stories about triumph, self discovery, letters and heart to heart conversations. I truly feel blessed to be able to make such a profound and positive affect on so many people's lives.

I work with men and women of all ages and physical abilities. Because I have such an extensive background in many different martial arts. I can adapt my teaching style to accommodate anybody type. I have even taught individuals with disabilities.

I recently had a student tell me that they were able to find the confidence to stand up for theirself to a overbearing/bullying family member. That makes me so happy. Learning Self-Defense teaches you physical skills but it also empowers you mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

I would tell them to find an instuctor that doesnt only offer physical training. To find an instructor that understands the psychological/emotional aspects of Self-Defense and violence. Find an instructor that is trauma conscious that has a background in many different martial arts. No one style has the answer to potential types of attackers. I would also advise women to find an instructor that understands that women experiece violence in  our society differently then men do.

I encourage students to have a clear cut goal and reason to start training. Learning a martial art is different than learning Self-Defense. MMA, Boxing and BJJ are amazing sports and martial arts. However they have rules and regulations to protect participnts. Those rules don't apply on the street. Criminals use weapons, ambush, double teaming, and all sorts of tactics to get an adantage. You must know whether you want to learn an art or learn what it takes to go home safe if you are attacked.