Sensei Erik Piazza and Sensei Tim Oertel earned their second degree black belts on August 14, 2010 as they took part in an amazing display of skill, technique and camaraderie. They are both extremely talented and dedicated martial artists as well as two of the top teachers we have at UMAC. Their contribution is felt by all of us here and we are extremely fortunate to call them family. Sensei Piazza trains at the Brighton dojo and is a huge contributor to the teaching staff each time he steps on the floor. One of  his many contributions to UMAC includes the summer camp, which he has organized and presided over for many years. Sensei Oertel trains at both the Brighton and Victor dojo but teaches primarily at the Victor dojo. His students emulate his desire and dedication as was evidenced at the black belt test.

Sensei David Kalish earned his third degree black belt on the same day. Sensei Kalish is the head instructor and operator of the United Martial Arts Center in Victor, NY. He and his phenomenal staff are directly responsible for facilitating the growth of hundreds of students since it’s opening in April of 2007. Sensei Kalish is an incredible tournament competitor and uses the skills that make him so good in that arena as attributes to bring out the best in all!

Sensei Pam Wright was awarded a fourth degree black belt during the ceremony. Sensei Wright opened UMAC with Sensei Ingallina in April of 1999 and has been directly responsible for its success throughout the years. The amount of space it would take to list her contributions would turn this into a ten page blog so we won’t even go there. She has been involved in EVERY ASPECT of EVERY PROGRAM that has been developed at UMAC. She developed the Little Dragon and Junior curriculum. The adult program was designed on her watch. Her kickboxing class has rocked Rochester for almost twelve years. She directly helps the lives of all in her role as a self defense instructor. And on and on… Although her titles are many, her biggest gifts cannot be measured. She is a role model to the young and old. She inspires people just from being with them. She is a friend, confidante, coach and inspiration to all of us. UMAC is what it is because of Sensei Pam Wright. Please let her know just how much she is appreciated and loved. There’s only one of her and we all feel lucky she’s ours!