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Instructors

Instructor Advanced Training Program

Our instructors are the Best of the Best and have gone through hundreds of hours of training in teaching methodology, age-appropriate drills and skills, and personal development. Each instructor has extensive training before they are able to teach and guide students in the classroom. Once they've been qualified from our organization, they are required to continue their training and constantly upgrade their skills with a member of our professional team.

Master Instructor, Ma'am Maria Turnhout

Maria Turnhout

Master Turnhout, owner-operator and Master instructor of KMA, has combined her background in Child Development and Physical Education with her passion for martial arts to create award-winning and internationally recognized programs for both children and adults. Master Turnhout has been recognized and lauded by her peers—she was voted Most Inspiring Instructor in North America. She is well-known and respected in the martial arts community for her amazing technical skill, weapon and fight choreography expertise, and inspirational teaching methods. She is a nationally recognized keynote speaker both in the United States and Canada and has been inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame.

More About Master Turnhout

2nd Degree Black Belt, Ma'am Laura Welch

Ma'am Welch is owner-operator and Director of KMA. In addition to being a 2nd degree Black Belt, Ma’am Welch is a university graduate with a background in child psychology and a degree in business. It is the combination of her strong business skills and perceptiveness with children and adults alike that has developed the professionalism and excellence of quality that you see at KMA.

Black Belt, Sir Jared

Since Sir Jared began his martial arts training at KMA in 2004, he has developed into a strong leader through our intensive instructor training program. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ithaca College in New York, where he perfected the art of stage combat. Sir Jared’s attention to detail and strong technique inspire confidence in every student and make him the perfect Senior Instructor.

Black Belt, Ma’am Meena

Ma'am Meena began training at KMA 6 months after its opening in 2002. She is a certified Pilates instructor and massage therapist, and uses these skills outside of KMA as a personal trainer and rehab specialist. In addition to being a Black Belt in TKD, Ma’am Meena has trained in Ninjitsu and Capoeira. Meena has over 10 years of experience in power tumbling and gymnastics. Her dedication to the growth of the students through the KMA I CAN attitude makes Ma’am Meena a definite asset to our instructor team.

Black Belt, Sir Ryan

Sir Ryan began his martial arts training as a youth where he was a talented fighter, competing extensively throughout the east coast. Over the years, he has worked with a wide range of children through summer camps, youth groups, and church groups. Ryan embraces the philosophy of KMA and believes that confidence, patience and indomitable spirit will inspire people to always give their best.

Sir Chris

Sir Chris is currently in the KMA instructor-training program. He has over 8 years of ITF training. He is a Nationally certified level 2 Coach with the NCCP, a bachelor's degree in Exercise Sciences and Physical Education and has a diploma of Kinesiology and Physical Education with honors. Chris enjoys creating a fun, energetic martial arts experience and instills respect and discipline in all classes.