Press Releases

Mrs. Gisella Stalloch and Mr. Joseph Fiore, new instructors at the Main Utica location

In the American Martial Arts Institute, it takes years of training and dedication to earn the rank of black belt. For each student the challenges along the path are different. In the end, black belts in American Eagle Style have achieved a high standard of mental maturity and knowledge and an incredible range of physical skills. This rank would not have been possible without the guidance of instructors who have the ability to pass on the style.

The traditional martial arts embody the philosophical concept of the circle. Students one day teach what they have learned to another generation, giving back what was once given to them. This is no small feat. The ability to demonstrate the physical skills of a style does not mean that a black belt can teach those skills to another. For each student the challenges along the path are different. An instructor must take into consideration your level of self-confidence, body structure, age, and a multitude of other factors. They must be able to adapt their language, body posture, and instructional techniques to articulate a concept without changing the essence of that concept. Therefore, instructors in the American Martial Arts Institute are required to undergo an apprenticeship during which they are taught how to teach the style. Also, instructors must annually be recertified to teach.

The future of a style depends on new generations of students completing the circle and joining the instructor status. This growth produces a new individual with the traditional foundation of the style under the direction of the Grand Master.

The American Martial Arts Institute is proud to announce that Grand Master Crandall has awarded Mrs. Gisella Stalloch and Mr. Joseph Fiore instructor status. Congratulations to Mrs. Gisella Stalloch and her instructor, Mrs. Freleigh, and Mr. Joseph Fiore and his instructor, Dr. Chuff.