I started training in the martial arts in 1982 under Shihan Hiroshi Hamada of the Dai Nippon Butoku-Kai, training in the disciplines of Karate, Aikido, Kendo, Iaido and Kobudo. These traditional arts formed a sound basis from which to build upon. Still, I had a need to learn progressively more realistic sets of tools to lean on when in a bad situation.
In 2004 I found Krav Maga. I trained under Shihan Steve Del Castillo of KMMA and other practitioners associated with several groups, including Krav Maga Worldwide, International Krav Maga Federation and Eyal Yanilov and others from Krav Maga Global, ultimately earning my black belt under Shihan Del Castillo.
I’ve also trained in Brazilian and Japanese Jiu-jitsu, Judo and Muay Thai. I’ve learned from many others, including Rory Miller and Massad Ayoob, my father (Marine Corp champion boxer) and godfather (8th dan black belt). I believe in continuing to improve myself by searching for and learning from those who are better. Much of my teaching emphasizes the time surrounding the fight – how to avoid, how to be sure you don’t do something you go to jail for and the mental aspects of staying alive.