Qualified Instructors at our Academy

It would surprise most people to know how long and difficult is the road to instructor status. In an era of quick promotions and superficial knowledge these students have worked hard, often longer than it would take to secure an academic degree, to attain the rank of instructor. Not only are they competent in their fields but each has contributed a distinct and original approach to the arts which has benefits students and colleagues.

Ted Mancuso

Ted Mancuso is the founder of the Academy of Martial Arts. He has over forty years in the arts and was the yongest head instructor of the largest group of Kenpo schools in America. He has written extensively on martial arts in most major magazines with articles in English, Spanish and Chinese. His company, Plum Publications, is a well known sources of information and material on Chinese martial arts. His most recent book, Blossoms in the Spring, focuses on an ancient Taoist form of Qigong training.

Linda Darrigo

Co-founder of the Academy, LInda is a dedicated and highly skilled practitoner of a number of styles including Chen Tai Chi, Six Harmony Mantis, Long Arm Kung Fu and more. Having worked with top notch instructors such as Boris Shi and Adam Hsu, she practices a style that is deep and classical. She has appeared in instructional DVDs, articles and has the rare experience of teaching Kung Fu in Taiwan.

John Ottenberg

A fifth degree Black Belt in the art of LimaLama directly from its founder Tino Tuoulesega - one of the most respected martial arts instructors in the Western world, John has spent more than 30 years in the pursuit of martial excellence and was asked recently to create a series of training DVDs directly from his own experience and theories. The first two of these "Beyond Technique& First Response" have already been produced.

Jim Mullen

Jim is a highly skilled and knowledgeable practitoner with experience in Tai Chi, Bagua, weapons and the famous Choy Lai Fut style. Jim has decades not only of learning but of hard practice. He has studied under top instructors such as Howard Lee and Marshall Ho.

Jean Andrews

With years of experience  counseling students and a decade of training in Tai Chi and Bagua, Jean Andrews brings a sympathetic and fine-tuned hand to teaching at the Academy. She has worked with Tai Chi Yang and Chen styles, Tai Chi sword, staff and saber, Push Hands, San Shou and other martial styles. She is also studyng Qigong including Five Animals, Ba Duan Jin and other forms.