Instructors

Shihan Timothy Barchard (Director / Chief Instructor) Master Shihan (Shihan is a very special title used for chief instructors of yondan or higher with twenty years experience and covers a broad range of higher ranks and ages) began his martial arts training as a teenager under the tutelage of Grandmaster Robert LaMattina. Shihan was promoted to his Godan 5th Degree Black Belt on November 24, 2004. Along with his traditional martial arts training, he holds the rank of purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under BJJ Black Belt Keith Florian. Shihan Tim also studies AMOK knife fighting, and Muay Thai. On April 24, 2004 Master Shihan was elected into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. A three time National Karate Champion, he has traveled all over the United States participating in tournaments and seminars. In August 2006 he traveled to Brazil and won the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu World Championships. He has trained with such notables as Chuck Norris, Ernie Reyes Sr., Fred Degeberg, Larry Lam, Tom Sotis, Keith Florian, Kenny Florian, Dave Kovar, and Kru Mark DellaGrotte. Being the father of two children, he knows the importance of teaching morals and values.

Tashi Todd Waardenburg (Senior Instructor) Tashi (Tashi "the helper" a Yondan 4th degree black belt with at least 15 years experience) began his martial arts training a young teenager and currently holds the rank of 4th degree black belt. He also holds a Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Renzo Gracie. Teaching for over ten years Tashi was voted "2001 EFC Instructor of the year" at an international martial arts conference in Nashville, Tennessee. He was also voted "2002 Most Inspired Instructor" at a conference in Miami, Florida. A member of the Panther National Karate Team he has traveled throughout the U.S. and Canada competing and winning nationally rated karate tournaments.

Sensei Diane Barchard (Instructor) Sensei "Mammy" (Sensei "one who has come before") is the grandmother of our school. A full time martial arts instructor she began her formal training at the young age of 49. Currently holding a 3rd degree black belt Sensei Mammy is a walking role model. Along with her training she spends her time with her 3 children and 5 grandchildren. She is an inspiration to everyone she comes in contact with. She is walking proof of what the martial arts can do for you. In October 2005 she was voted "Instructor of the Year" at a National Martial Arts Conference in Orlando Florida.

Sensei Laura Vallieres (Instructor / Program Director) Sensei Laura is our instructor/office manager. Along with being a full time college student, her daily activities include updating student files, including enrollment, attendance, and the organization of monthly activities. Sensei Laura is a 2 time national karate champion and holds the rank of 2nd degree black belt. Her classroom enthusiasm keeps students motivated and striving to be their best. In August 2006 Sensei Laura went to Brazil and was promoted to her Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu by Roberto "Gordo" Correa and Rafael "Gordinho" Correa under Renzo Gracie.