Team McCoy

Kwang Jang Nim & Sensei Anne McCoy, 8th Degree Black Belt Instructor and founder and co-owner of our system

Barbara (Ms. Barbi) is Sabum Nim and Sensei Batman, a 7th-degree Black belt and co-owner of M.A.K. A lifelong learner in mind and body, McCoy Carrier constantly pushes her boundaries to ensure she delivers the very best to those she inspires. Join the journey with a leader who believes in living with strength, courage, and purpose.

The Karate Kids program is the heart and foundation of Greg Silva’s creation, Universal Kenpo, which is a direct derivative of Ed Parker's Kenpo, the system founded by the pioneer of American Kenpo. Designed with a focus on children's development, the program addresses the evolving left-right coordination and cognitive function that children experience as they grow. The Martial Arts Kenpo Academy (MAK) has incorporated its own expertise to ensure that the self-defense curriculum is developmentally appropriate while also maintaining a strong commitment to social responsibility. The MAK prioritizes teaching techniques that empower children to defend themselves without introducing methods that could cause permanent harm to others. In martial arts, a *sensei* is a respected instructor or teacher, often a guide and mentor who imparts not only techniques and knowledge but also wisdom, discipline, and values. In the context of this program, the sensei plays an integral role in fostering a positive learning environment and instilling the principles of respect, perseverance, and responsibility in young students.

Tang Soo Do is a communal art form, where senior members aim to share their knowledge and skills rather than assert superiority. In Tang Soo Do (TSD), striving for excellence is key, with each student's contribution being vital for personal growth and the development of those around them within the community. For instance, 4th Degree Black Belts are often called Master Belts in many martial arts, especially in the western world. However, in TSD, we prefer the term teacher over master, viewing it as a role similar to that of an elder in a family. The Korean term Sabum (or Sabum Nim), used for those with 4th to 10th degrees, signifies a familial relationship, where the aim is to inspire fellow members to surpass the abilities of their seniors. Just as in families, we aspire for our students to achieve excellence that exceeds our own capabilities. Additionally, it can be said that degrees 4 and above are regarded more as senior students rather than masters.

FIST stands for Future Instructor and Student Teachers, and membership is BY INVITATION ONLY. This class focuses on leadership and teaching techniques used by M.A.K. for students at any level, brand, or program. The team is small and focused, reflecting members' passion for the school. Membership is by invitation only, primarily for older Karate Kids, Black Belt Karate Kids, Adults, and Teens. Membership selection is solely decided by the management team, with no procedural justice in FIST. This approach underscores the significance of FIST members to M.A.K.'s culture and their responsibilities in teaching. M.A.K. values the advancement and well-being of students, with members impacting student abilities similarly to instructors. FIST members wear a RED top for easy identification, ensuring that students and families recognize individuals who are qualified and selected by the M.A.K. management team.