Meet Our Instructors

Our Senseis are all Black Belts in one or more disciplines

Our professional sensei’s are the best in the industry. They are extremely well trained and continually update themselves on the latest techniques. They genuinely have a passion for training students of all ages.

Learn More About Lesson Types
Sensei Evan McCollam
My name is Evan McCollam. I enjoy working out, training martial arts, and spending time outdoors. I became an instructor in my mid twenties. I enjoy helping students achieve their goals not just in martial arts but in life.
Sensei Sydney Root

My name is Sydney Root. I started traing in march 2021. In 2022 I started my teaching journey in the storm program and eventually earned my red instructor belt in 2023. Outside of Karate I enjoy other sports such as soccer and volleyball, various forms of art, and anime. I look forward to my future here and am eager to see how much I grow.

Sensei Archie Currin
When I was five years old, I had to wear braces on my feet much like Forrest Gump. My dad was a police officer in Chicago. He enrolled my brother and I in karate when we were seven and eight years old. He wanted us to be able to defend ourselves and he thought karate would help with my coordination. The MARTIAL ARTS helped me with my confidence as well as coordination. I went to college on a football scholarship and enjoyed a 30 year career in sales and marketing. My wife, Angie and I have been married for 42 years and we have three daughters and four grandkids. I am currently a secondary black belt. The MARTIAL ARTS literally change my life, and I enjoy sharing the magic of the MARTIAL ARTS with others.
Sensei Tony Medina

My name is Tony Medina. I have been training in Martial arts since I was 6 years old. I found my passion for martial arts through becoming an instructor and being able to work with all different ages of students while also being able to train/learn in the different styles and backgrounds of the martial arts throughout my time. I enjoy being outdoors whether that be hiking up a mountain to paddle boarding by the beach I try to always stay active and in great shape. I spend my mornings each day helping others stay healthy by working at a health/nutrition bar, creating different kinds of protein shakes and teas that contain tons of vitamins and antibiotics to help fight off sicknesses. My goal in life is to be as healthy as can be and give all my energy into helping the world become a better place. From the students I teach to the customers I help daily. I will always thrive to give back to others and continue to grow stronger by the day.

What some of our students and their parents say about us

"My kids have grown so much since joining United Self Defense Academy. The instructors are patient, encouraging, and truly care about every student. We've seen a real boost in confidence both on and off the mat. We couldn't be happier!"

– Rehaan Whitfield

"From the moment my child walked through the door, they felt welcome. The program has built real discipline and confidence in ways I never expected. Watching them earn each belt has been one of our family's favorite experiences together."

– William Haines

"The transformation we have seen in our son has been incredible. He is more focused, more respectful, and more confident than ever before. The instructors here genuinely invest in every student and it shows in everything they do."

– Igor Landry