MEET THE INSTRUCTORS
All Phoenix instructors must be certified under our official certification program. Nidan (2nd-degree black belt) is the minimum required rank to be considered for the program.
CATHY MELANSON
Instructor
Shuseki Shihan Cathy Melanson began training with Kancho Soller in 1983 at the Mount St, Mary’s University Dojo. A holder of the 7th Dan, She has traveled around the world promoting and training in Phoenix Karate.
Co-Founder of the Phoenix Children’s Program and Renowned USA Rockville Dojo
Champion and Competitor in Jissen Kumite, Kata and Tameshiwari
Holder of Master Instructor, International, and Instructor Licenses
Chief Referee of the Association
ELIAS MAZUR
Instructor
Shihandai Elias Mazur, a native of Brazil, has been a student of traditional martial arts since his youth. After joining the Rockville Dojo and progressing in the Association, Shihandai has become a mainstay of the Association’s Instructor's Program and currently serves as the Chief Evaluator for instruction. Shiahndai has a deep knowledge and interest in kata and martial arts history.
Branch Chief
Master Instructor and Instructor Licenses
Phoenix Instructor Program (PIP) Chief Evaluator
SENSEI MATT HEAPS
Instructor
Sensei Matt Heaps has been a veteran instructor for several Phoenix Karate dojos. Ranked as Full Instructor for Phoenix, Sensei Matt has supported many karateka on their journey to higher rank, including training and teaching our branch in Ukraine. Excelling at kumite, Sensei’s unique ability to break down mechanics and read opponents makes him an exceptional fighter and teacher.
