Instructors
All of our certified instructors posses the teaching experience you need to help you overcome your challenges. Each brings something different to the table. Get to know the instructors that will be working directly with you.
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Michael O. Strong,
Head Instructor Born and raised in Phoenix, AZ, Michael Strong began his study of Uechi-Ryu Karate, in 1988, along with his family. He achieved the rank of Shodan (1st degree) blackbelt in 1993, under Sensei Saddler, being the youngest to do so, at that time. He began teaching at Saddler’s dojos around the valley. He was later named head instructor by Sensei Saddler. In 2016, Sensei Strong also became a member of the Worldwide Martial Arts Association.
Mr. Strong worked in Tempe as a drafter and designer for a small scenery company. He is an illusionist, performing magic at local events (Strong Magic), an art enthusiast, music lover, and devoted father. |
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Sensei Peter Spiess
Peter Spiess was born on Long Island, New York, and moved to Tucson, Arizona in 1971. After working and studying at the University of Arizona, he moved to Phoenix to study law in 1977. Sensei Spiess spent a number of years studying a combination of the Isshin-Ryu and Shorin-Ryu styles and Shotokan karate. In August 2013, he began his study of Uechi-Ryu under the instruction of Sensei Michael Strong and in 2018 he achieved Shodan (Black Belt). He continues his strong interest in, and study of, Uechi-Ryu Karate. He has now been teaching Uechi-Ryu karate under Sensei Strong since 2018.
Mr. Spiess is a retired lawyer. His hobbies include hiking and camping, snow skiing, scuba diving, riding his motorcycles around the western United States and playing pool. |
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Sensei Andrea Gaines
Andrea Gaines began her study of karate in 1994, as a means of self-defense. She soon realized there was more to it and learned great discipline and self-control. She achieved black belt in May of 2003. Sensei Gaines continues to teach and carries the lessons she has learned into her daily life.
Ms. Gaines has an associate degree in Social Work. She has been a baker at Fry’s Food Stores for 27 years. |
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Sensei Nathan Pollaro
Nathan Pollaro was born in Phoenix, AZ. He began his study of Uechi-Ryu, at an early age, in 2006. Through Sensei Michael Strong, Mr. Pollaro achieved the rank of 1st degree Black Belt in August of 2023. He currently is the last of Sensei Saddler’s students to do so. He has garnered a great deal of self-discipline and physical control throughout his training.
Mr. Pollaro is pursuing a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering at GCU. He enjoys working with his hands whether it’s in robotics or building kit cars. He also likes playing music on his guitar, flute or clarinet. He has a strong bond to his family and friends. |
