Masters & Instructors
Expert, Caring Instruction

Our Instructors are full time professional educators that are highly trained in Martial Arts and more importantly - teaching.  Each instructor must complete a rigorous selection, training and certification process that only the finest graduate.  Master Nottingham demands that they demonstrate uncommon character, courage, compassion and lead by example, making them among the most extensively trained instructors in the world.  They then must commit to each student to see that they achieve their goals using the proven Black Belt Success System.

USA Martial Arts instructors are also active in our surrounding communities, local schools and companies performing demonstrations, teaching self defense, stranger safety, gang/drug awareness, goal setting and other successful life skills.   

USA Martial Arts has also hosted international demonstration teams and USA Martial Arts was declared an official international sister school of a district of Korea.  Master Nottingham and a team of representatives have been featured on a documentary and various news stations in Korea and China.

Master John Nottingham, Bulguksa (Pulguksa) Temple Gyeongju South Korea

chief Master John D. Nottingham

Hall of Fame Master With A Mission

John Nottingham is the visionary founder, President and Technical Director of USA Martial Arts. He is one of the highest-ranking students of his first teacher and was honored with the distinguished title “Master” in 1997.  Master Nottingham, a 6th Degree Black Belt, was inducted into the International Hall of Fame on July 23, 2005.  He holds multiple advanced degrees of Black Belt and numerous teaching credentials and certifications.

Master Nottingham has dedicated his life to researching, perfecting and teaching the USA Martial Arts method. His goal is to preserve and expand this unique system and enhance people’s lives with its powerful life skills and lessons. His passion for inspiring others to unleash their potential has led him to have instructed thousands of men, women and children of all ages. Master Nottingham offers a lifetime of experience; the following are a few of his many achievements.

• International Master Instructor and President of USA Martial Arts
• Inducted International Hall of Fame 2005 "Master of the Year"
• Awarded Honorary Ph.D. of Philosophy in Martial Arts Science
• Former National Competitor and Olympic Style Taekwondo Certified Coach and Referee
• American Council on Martial Arts (ACMA) Certified Instructor
• Founder of NTS – Personal Safety, Tactical and Security Training Company
• Graduate of Gavin de Becker & Associates Advanced Threat Assessment and Management
• Graduate Academy for Protectors
• Graduate of BTI Bodyguard Training International
• ASIS Security Executive Protection Certified by Robert Oatman
• Hand-to-Hand Combatives Course Engineer
• Trained and Formerly Licensed CDT Tactical Master with T. Patire
• Jeet Kune Do & Filipino Martial Arts Full Instructor Certification with Paul Vunak (PFS)
• Submission Fighting Certified SSF Instructor with UFC/MMA Champion Frank Shamrock
• Certified Representative: Dr. Stewarts (KIA) Kyushu Jitsu Alliance on pressure points
• Certified Boxing Coach
• Certified Kickboxing Coach
• Certified Yoga Instructor
• Board of Advisors: Break The Chain Foundation: Prevention &Treatment of Child Abuse

Master Nottingham began his martial arts training at Song’s Martial Arts Institute in Illinois, legendary for being one of the most challenging and demanding schools of its kind. As a young man faced with training in an environment where classes and sparring were feared by many, he forged the perseverance, desire and will to succeed.

Master Nottingham had the opportunity to compete at National and International levels and train with Olympic competitors at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was one of the youngest to have ever been given the honor to become an Instructor at his first school.

While attending college, Master Nottingham answered the call of duty and joined the US Military, eventually having the privilege of serving as an Airborne soldier in a detachment of a Special Forces Unit. Due to his unique experience and skill, he was issued official unit duty orders to train the elite US Army Special Forces in Hand-to-Hand Combat. With the collaboration of some of the top soldiers in the world, he researched, studied, tested and engineered a state-of-the-art hand-to-hand combat system.  He was awarded a Special Forces Certificate of Appreciation for his efforts.

While completing his service in the US Army as a reservist, Master Nottingham moved to Arizona in 1992 to continue his education. He was then granted special permission to establish his own family branch of his teachers system and opened Taekwondo Academy in Mesa, Arizona. He was entrusted to further develop and expand the curriculum, writing two books on the subject. It was here that the vision for USA Martial Arts became a reality.

After years of rigorous training, research and testing, Master Nottingham became independently in charge of synthesizing a new curriculum, separate from his teacher’s style.  He devoted himself tirelessly to the development of one of the most effective and comprehensive (MMA) Mixed Martial Arts curriculums known today.

Master Nottingham has continued his intense lifetime study of martial arts and healing arts, with hard won experience in Aikido, Kung Fu, Wushu, Hwarang Do, Hapkido, Ninjutsu, Jeet Kune Do, Krav Maga, Jiujutsu and over 20 martial systems.  His exceptionally high standards and research have taken him as far as Asia to gain greater insight on martial arts, culture, and history.  He is one of the few Western-trained Masters to have had the honor of conducting a Belt Test in Korea. 

<Master Nottingham at his annual 'CAMP KICK' demonstrating flying split front kick.  Holding targets is 3rd Degree Black Belt Anthony Miles who stands at 5'9.

Throughout his career he has had the privilege of studying under a virtual "who's-who" of Martial Arts legends, something he continues to do today.  Some of those leading Masters and Grandmasters include: Nak S. Sung (aka Nak Song), Richard Na, Ken Corona, Kenny Perez, Celebrity Bodyguard Tom Patire, the Gracies, the Machados, Paul Vunak, Frank Shamrock and many others. 

In addition, he is the author of several works on his system, a public speaker and has appeared in publications and broadcasts, including, The Arizona Republic, Phoenix Gazette and Channels 3, 10 and 12 News.  Nationally and internationally he has appeared on ESPN2, on news broadcasts in Korea, China and made some modest appearances in commercials and movies.  He has demonstrated and taught for McDonalds Corporation, Inland Realty and Fiesta Mall, and has conducted seminars for public schools, various groups, military and corporations.

"John, You will be the best Master in the Taekwondo world." -Grandmaster Y.K. Kim, Senior editor of Taekwondo Times 

Master Nottingham has taken groups of students to Korea and China to train and study with various demo teams and Universities, and hosted international teams including the world famous Korean Eagles Taekwondo Team. He turned down repeated requests to live in Asia and teach Martial Arts to pursue the USA Martial Arts vision.  He is certified in several ancient and modern forms of healing arts, and is a personal trainer.

The new millennium marked a new beginning in his education. He has attended and graduated several bodyguard schools and is a Certified Executive Protection Specialist.  He created a separate tactical company to train law enforcement, executives and various military and security forces called NTS.  Trained by three time Presidential appointee and best selling author Gavin De Becker, he is also a member of a select community of Advanced Threat Assessment specialists that predict and manage violence.  He also is certified by ASIS for Executive Protection and was trained by former Secret Service Agent Robert Oatman.

Drawing upon his exceptional drive, spirit and passion, Master Nottingham lead USA Martial Arts to be an industry leader within a few short years.  By 2006 he had personally tested and promoted over one hundred and sixty Black Belts. He is dedicated to a mission to promote over one thousand Black Belts committed to creating a more peaceful world through acts of kindness, courtesy and community service.

Today he is certified to teach several systems and continues to learn and grow to keep the USA Martial Art’s curriculum on the cutting edge. His other interests include adventure sports, entrepreneurship, movies, music, research, travel, stunts, speaking, theatre, reading and personal development.

Leading by example with vision and passion, his goal is to inspire each student to continue to grow and learn throughout life, break through limitations to discover their unique purpose, gifts and highest potential. His heartfelt belief is that it will create a more peaceful world, one community, one family, one student, one life at a time.

Experience Inspired Training With A Visionary master

Students come from surrounding areas, some drive long distances from other cities for training in the Academy of one of the most unique and inspirational Master teachers of our time.

"An ideal Master."  "A true renaissance man."

Long distance travelers from other States or Countries should contact the headquarters school prior to making travel arrangements. The staff takes pride in being gracious hosts and want to ensure a positive experience for you.

Full time training and personal sessions available with Master Nottingham based on availability. The earlier you schedule, the better chances you will have. An application and interview is required to be considered for private training with Master Nottingham.

For more seminar, speaking and specialty training information, click here.

Click here to view Certificates and Awards

______________________________________________________________

The USA Martial Arts Teachers' Professional Code

1. Above all, the safety and well being of our students shall be the compass for all of our decisions.

2. As martial arts teachers, we shall be examples of the life enhancing qualities gained from the serious study of these arts –
Physical health, integrity, self-control, perseverance, and the confidence to succeed.  

3. We will continuously add to our ability to serve by ongoing study and to share the lessons of our experience with our fellow members.

4. To build an ever-increasing confidence and goodwill in our community by poise, self-restraint and constructive cooperation.

5. We recognize that our success is measured by our commitment to selfless-service to our students and our communities.

______________________________________________________________

Master Jun Ho Moon

Master Jun Ho Moon is currently a 5th Degree Black Belt Master in Taekwondo. He graduated in 1995 from the prestigious Yong In University in Seoul, South Korea, where he received a Bachelor’s Physical Education Degree in Taekwondo. While there, Master Moon trained with Olympians and World Champions in Taekwondo. He also holds a Black Belt in Judo and Kumdo (sword) and is trained in Tae Kyun. Master Moon holds certificates in Yoga and Sports Medicine. The following are just a few of Master Moon’s many achievements:

• National College Championships, 1991 – 3rd Place
• Year-End College Championships, 1993 – 3rd Place
• Sung Book Koo Tournament – 2nd Place
• Certified Referee
• Instructor – Jang Gee Do Jang, 1993
• Instructor – Po All Do Jang, 1994
• Head Instructor – USA Martial Arts, 1996-2005
• Board Member of the International Technical Advisory Committee of Black Belt Universities

Master Moon has had the honor to train under the following teachers in Korea and at Yong In University:

• Grandmaster Han Woo Cho
• Master Chang Bae Im
• Master Sae Gon Kim
• Professor Gyu Suk Yi
• Professor Joong Eui Jin
• Professor Sung Chul Kang
• Professor Sang Ha Yoon

Master Moon’s vision for his students is to instill martial arts as a way of life and not just a hobby. His goal is to continue his martial arts education and travel worldwide to study different arts. Along with Master Nottingham, he is constantly researching and helping to create the most effective curriculum for USA Martial Arts students. Master Moon is known for his outstanding technique and abilities. He is a member of the USA Martial Arts Technical Advisory Committee and the Team Coach for competitions. Master Moon is revered by his students and admired and respected by the staff.

Ms. Rhonda Roth

Executive Director of Operations

Ms. Rhonda Roth is a 3rd Degree Black Belt under Master Nottingham. She became part of USA Martial Arts shortly after her daughter Sarah joined; both of whom went on to earn Black Belt. She is a member of the USA Martial Arts Leadership Program and a graduate of the STP/LTP Staff and Leadership Training Course. Instructor Roth is also the coordinator for USA Martial Arts events. She was instrumental in editing and co-authoring the USA Martial Arts student handbook as well as numerous other UMA publications.

Ms. Roth is a VIPER Level I, II & III graduate, a VIPER Level I Instructor and IMPACT Level I Instructor. She is also certified Level 2 in MMA Shamrock Submission Fighting.  She has traveled to and trained in Korea (three times) and China with world champions and Grandmasters. As a competitor she won a Gold Medal in international competition in Korea.  She is a graduate of Gavin de Becker & Associates Academy for Protectors and was formerly certified in CDT Levels I & III non-deadly force system.

Ms. Roth is also a personal safety expert and conducts lectures and training for various organizations and schools. In addition, she has attended numerous training programs and is a certified graduate of The College of Martial Arts (MAIA) in 2002.

Certified Bodyguard Training International Graduate in 2004, Ms. Roth also holds the distinction as a certified Level One Instructor in Jeet Kune Do Concepts and Filipino Martial Arts from Paul Vunak, the famous Navy SEAL trainer. She is expertly trained in both stick and knife tactics.  In 2005 Ms. Roth earned certification as a Yoga instructor.  In July 2006 she was certified by ASIS Security for Executive Protection.

With a strong commitment to the students and schools, Ms. Roth is the Executive Director of Operations and Events for all USA Martial arts and is the Program Director and Instructor at USA Martial Arts Mesa School. Everyone respects her cheerful disposition and indomitable spirit. She has been with UMA since 1998.

Ms. Laura Templeman (CIT)

Program Director -WEST/Glendale

Ms. Laura Templeman is a 3rd Degree Black Belt under Master Nottingham. She began her training at USA Martial Arts with her children and was promoted into the challenging 'Gray Belt' Apprentice Instructor Program.

Ms. Templeman trained in Korea as a guest at Hanguek University with world champions. In 2007 she won a Gold Medal in forms in international competition in Korea.  A former corrections officer, she is a member of the USA Martial Arts Leadership Program and a graduate of the Staff and Leadership Training Course. Ms. Templeman is a certified graduate of The College of Martial Arts (MAIA) in 2002 as well as VIPER Evolution I, II & III personal protection courses. She is an IMPACT Level I Instructor, Level 2 in Submission Fighting, and formerly certified in CDT Levels I & III non-deadly force training.

Ms. Templeman continues to expand her education having participated in seminars and ongoing education with renowned experts like J.J. Machado, Billy Blanks, Bill 'Superfoot' Wallace, Olympian Mike Swain, World Champion David Douglas, Black Belt Hall of Famer Ernie Reyes, Mike Chat, Wade Allen and many others.

Currently assigned as the Program Director and Instructor at USA Martial Arts’ WEST Headquarters school in Glendale, Ms. Templeman has won numerous awards and certificates for her outstanding performance.  As a competitor, she holds numerous awards including Grand Champion trophies.

Known for her indomitable spirit, leadership and work ethic, Ms. Templeman is admired for her inner strength and devotion to her students. She has been with USA Martial Arts since 1997.

Mr. John Martin (CIT)

Instructor—Mesa

Mr. John Martin is currently a 3rd Degree Black Belt.  He began training shortly after his son Jacen, now a Black Belt, became interested in martial arts. Mr. Martin continues to train with his entire family in Mesa. Mrs. Michelle Martin and son Jarod are also students in the MASTERY Leadership Black Belt Training Program.

Mr. Martin holds the distinction of being one of the few qualified and selected for a special leadership apprentice and management career martial arts training program with Master Nottingham called CIT. Mr. Martin is a VIPER Personal Protection Level I graduate and is certified Level 2 in Mixed Martial Arts Submission Fighting. He is Coach certified 1st Class and was formerly certified in CDT Level 1 non-deadly force training.

Devoted to furthering his martial arts education, Mr. Martin has attended seminars in California, Arizona and Nevada and has trained with renowned experts such as Maurice Smith, Bill "Superfoot" Wallace, Royce Gracie, Billy Blanks, Frank Shamrock, Master Kenny Perez, Master Brett Lechtenberg, Professor Steve Stewart and others. Under training from Black Belt and success coach Anthony Robbins, he became a "Firewalker" in June of 2006. He also traveled to China, where he trained at the Shaolin Temple and the highly regarded Beijing Central Wu Shu School. In 2007 he travelled to Korea to train with world champions and GrandMasters.  He competed and won a Gold Medal in international competition that included over 40 other countries.

He is respected by students and parents as one who leads by example.  An award winning Black Belt, Mr. Martin’s commitment to training, research and study have earned him a reputation for in depth knowledge in martial arts philosopy and history.  Mr. Martin is also an active supporter of the child abuse prevention charity Break The Chain Foundation.  He is admired for his uncompromised devotion and selfless service to USA Martial Arts and students.

Mr. Shawn O’Neill

Instructor - Mesa

Mr. Shawn O'Neill is a 2nd Degree Black Belt under Master Nottingham and currently an assistant instructor at the USA Martial Arts Mesa School. With over 20 years experience under his belt, Mr. O'Neill brings a level of expertise rarely found in instructors. He said that when he found UMA, he finally found a place where they actually lived what they taught.

Mr. O'Neil has a gift for technical coaching and in depth analysis.  His passion for Martial Arts is evident in his dedication to years of training, research, and highly effective teaching.  His demonstrations are known to "Wow!" audiences of of all ages.

Known for his world class kicking techniques and flexibility, his technical expertise is only matched by his dedication to his students and their success. Martial Arts has also become a family tradition as both of his nephews earned Black Belt at USA Martial Arts.

MS. TERESA JENKINS (CIT)

Miss Teresa Jenkins is currently a 2nd Degree Black Belt under Master Nottingham. She began her training at USA Martial Arts as a fitness kickboxing student and then transitioned into the martial arts program. After just one and a half years of training, she was promoted into the challenging 'Gray Belt' Apprentice Instructor Program.  She is a member of the USA Martial Arts Leadership Program and a graduate of the STP/LTP Staff and Leadership Training Course.

Miss Jenkins is a VIPER Personal Protection Level I graduate and is certified Level 2 in Submission Fighting. Miss Jenkins is also a certified graduate of The College of Martial Arts (MAIA) in 2002, as well as IMPACT Gray Level, formerly certified in CDT Level I non-deadly force training, TKO Fitness Kickboxing Levels I & II Instructor, IMPACT Gray level, and Coach Certified-1st Class.

In June 2006, Miss Jenkins traveled with USA Martial Arts to China, where she trained at the world famous Shaolin Temple and the Shaolin Wu Shu School.  Miss Jenkins also became a “Firewalker” and was trained by Black Belt and success coach Anthony Robbins.    

Ms. Jenkins holds the distinction of being one of the few qualified and selected for a special leadership and management career martial arts training program with Master Nottingham called CIT.  Committed to furthering her martial arts education, Miss Jenkins has participated in seminars and trained with renowned experts like Master Kenny Perez, Billy Blanks, Bill 'Superfoot' Wallace, Master Brett Lechtenberg, Black Belt Hall of Famer Ernie Reyes, Mike Chat, Frank Shamrock, Gene LaBelle, Dave & Tim Kovar, Kathy Long, Melody Shuman, Dawn Barnes and many others.

Known for promoting wholesome family values and manners she is committed to helping others achieve their dreams.  She has been with USA Martial Arts since 2001.

Mrs. laura oliveria

Mrs. Laura Oliveria (formerly Lambries), is a 2nd Degree Black Belt under Master Nottingham. Mrs. Oliveria began her martial arts training as a White Belt with Master Nottingham in 1992. She went on to become one of the most successful Program Directors and Instructors, heading up the Glendale school. She also developed the largest Little Tigers program in USA Martial Arts history.

Solidifying her unique reputation as a trail blazer, Ms. Oliveria takes great pride in being the first female to have earned a 2nd Degree Black Belt in USA Martial Arts history. She is also a graduate of VIPER practical personal protection.  Ms. Oliveria is credited with project managing and innovating a rotating phase advancement curriculum for 1st Degree/Level Black Belts. 

Ms. Oliveria is also known for her numerous contributions to local, national and international charities including the Red Cross.

She is currently serving in the United States Air Force and volunteers here time and skills to teach the USA Martial Arts method to children at her duty station.

Mr. Don Gray

Mr. Don Gray is a 2nd Degree Black Belt under Master Nottingham. Mr. Gray began his martial arts training with Master Nottingham in 1992. He went on to become one of the most beloved Black Belts and Instructors, heading up a branch location as well as instructing at nearly every Academy. Mr. Gray is also in demand for his private lessons and seminars.  He conducted an unforgettable Modern Army Combatives seminar for USA Martial Arts students while on leave from the Army.

Known for his loyalty, example and high level of motivation, Mr. Gray takes great pride in being one of Master Nottingham's original Arizona students and Black Belts. He is also a graduate and contributor of VIPER practical personal protection and has earned in-depth knowledge of criminology and the pathway to violence.   

Mr. Gray is also a former winning State and National competitor.  He is currently serving in the United States Army in Iraq as an Airborne soldier in a highly specialized unit.  In 2007 he travelled to Japan for further education.

Michael Brown (CIT)

Mr. Michael Brown is a 2nd Degree Black Belt with Master Nottingham and currently an apprentice instructor in the highly selective Certified Career Instructor Program. 

Formerly an Army Scout, he is currently on active duty in the Airforce as a security specialist.  Additionally Mr. Brown works directly with NTS, Master Nottingham's Tactical Training and Security Company, on protective and security details.  His expertise includes various firearms, security procedures, first aid/trauma treatment, and direct intervention tactics.  His experience ranges from physical security to event security including having experience with providing security for a movie company.

Don Hedges (LEAD)

Mr. Don Hedges is currently a 2nd Degree Black Belt with Master Nottingham and an assistant instructor at the John Nottingham's Martial Arts of Scottsdale location.  He began his martial arts training in Shotokan Karate as a youth.  Years later he resumed training along with his children at USA Martial Arts Peoria in May 2003 with the goal of achieving Black Belt.  Through outstanding dedication, character and discipline he distinguished himself not only as a Black Belt but rose to through the ranks to become a respected instructor. 

He is Coach Certified 1st Class and authorized to teach children, adults and the EDGE MMA program.  Through supplemental education he has trained with Wushu Kung Fu champion Kenny Perez (stunt double for Jet Li), Grand Master Richard Na (Korean Sword and Hapkido) and Dr./Professor Steve Stewart in Kyusho Jitsu Pressure Points. 

Mr. Hedges travelled to Korea in 2007 to increase his experience, skill and knowledge to share with students.  He trained with leading Masters and won a Gold Medal in forms in international competition.

Malinda Steen (STAFF/LEAD)

Ms. Steen is a 2nd Poom Jr. Black Belt and member of the LEAD training program.  Highly trained in classroom management, motivation and the ability to teach all levels, she is a very popular Black Belt with students from every location.  She is certified at the level of Coach 1st Class and a member of the LEAD program.

Mrs. Rose Deguisne (LEAD)

Mrs. Deguisne is a 2nd Degree Black Belt and an assistant instructor at the Glendale USA Martial Arts location.  Mrs. Deguisne was the primary assistant to Ms. Templeman during her time as Program Director of Glendale.  She is known for her selfless service and devotion to the school. 

She and her husband Terry make up the dynamic duo that have become affectionately known as the amazing Team Deguisne.  

Mr. Terry Deguisne (LEAD)

Mr. Deguisne is an assistant instructor at the Glendale USA Martial Arts location and holds the rank of 1st Degree Black Belt.  Mr. Deguisne is known for his leadership, work ethic and school spirit.  He is a member of the LEAD program.

James Forward (LEAD)

Mr. Forward is currently a 2nd Degree Black Belt with Master Nottingham and an assistant instructor at the Glendale location.  He is Coach Certified 1st Class and one of three to ever earn IMPACT Gray Level (the highest rank). 

Mr. Forward has also trained and performed demonstrations in China.  He is often the partner of choice for Masters and advanced Black Belt demonstrations.

Mr. Robert summers (Apprentice instructor/LEAD)

Mr. Robert Summers, known for his commitment to training, learning and strong work ethic, was recently promoted into the challenging 'Gray Belt' Apprentice Instructor Program at the Scottsdale Academy.  He is a member of the LEAD program.

Amanda Pfeifer  (Staff)

Ms. Pfeifer is a 3rd Poom Jr. Black Belt.   Known for her kicking ability and commitment to training, she is learning classroom management and office/business skills.  She is known for her selfless spirit is a role model to fellow students.

L.E.A.D. Leadership Education and Achievement Development Training Team

What Students & Parents Are Saying

Master Nottingham Round Kick.  Photo - Korea 1998