US Martial Arts Academy, Ltd Staff
At USMA, we’re more than just a martial arts school—we’re a community built on passion, focus, discipline, and determination. Our friendly, highly skilled instructors bring decades of experience to every class, ensuring you receive authentic instruction in Tien Shan Pai Kung Fu and Tai Chi. Every instructor on our team brings a minimum of three years of intensive training to the mat, with many celebrating over 20 years of experience in traditional Chinese Kung Fu (where sashes are worn instead of belts). Our first-, second-, and third-degree sash-ranked professionals continuously refine their craft, ensuring that each class is infused with authenticity and a supportive, family-friendly spirit.
Mr. Paul is our Head Instructor and School Owner. He has a fourth-degree black sash Tien Shan Pai. Shi Fu Paul has been studying since 1995 and teaching since 1999. A student of Grandmaster Huang since 1998 in Tien Shan Pai, Mr. Paul has studied the Yang Style long form since 2008, as well as the Tai Chi Broadsword and Straights sword forms. He also learned the Chen Pan Ling style of Tai Chi with Grandmaster as well. Mr. Paul is a disciple of Grandmaster Huang.
Mrs. Maricar, an instructor, our School Director, and School Owner, began her training in 2008 in Tien Shan Pai with Shi Fu Diane Kogelschatz Spoor and Shi Fu Paul Jakubowski. Grandmaster Huang trained her in the Yang Style long form of Tai Chi, and then Tai Chi broadsword and straightsword, and in the Chen Pan Ling form of Tai Chi. She also studied Tien Shan Pai with Master Michael Huang.
Our Senior Instructor, Mr. Jeff Zukor, brings unparalleled experience to USMA. He trained in the following: Tien Shan Pai Kung Fu, the long form of Yang Style Tai Chi, Tai Chi broadsword and straightsword since 1982 and started teaching in 1985. He earned his third-degree black sash and began a longtime discipleship under Grandmaster Huang.
Ms. Paige Tong further strengthens our team having started training in Tien Shan Pai Kung Fu in 2011, earning her first-degree black sash in 2017 and her second degree in January 2021.
Mr. Josh Buchbinder started training in Tien Shan Pai in many years ago. He earned his first-degree black sash; went off to college; and trained in other styles. He earned his second degree in 2023.
Mr. Will Tong demonstrated his rapid progress by achieving his first degree black sash in 2018, followed by his second degree sash in 2024.
Mr. Justin Weeber brings 15 years of training experience to the table and earned his first-degree black sash in 2022.
Mr. James Taylor started his training as a Kung Fu Kid and continued into the Family Kung Fu program. He became a 1st degree black sash in 2023.
Ms. Juliette White—training previously at another school and continuing her training with us for over three years, has earned her first-degree sash in 2024
Mr. John Siegel, returning after an extended break, is steadily progressing toward his first-degree black sash. Ms. Katelyn Squires and Ms. Mia Pyne are is also on their journey toward earning their first degree in Tien Shan Pai Kung Fu.
During extended school vacations, several college-age former instructors return to US Martial Arts Academy, Ltd. Their temporary contributions infuse our community with fresh energy and insight, ensuring that every season brings new learning opportunities.
At USMA, our rich tradition blends with modern instruction to create an environment where focus, discipline, and determination pave the way to mastering both Kung Fu and Tai Chi. Join our community to experience expert guidance, authentic training, and a nurturing atmosphere—all essential ingredients for an empowering martial arts journey.