August 7th, 2015 by WCBC Radio
The YMCA of Cumberland welcomes Sensei Tom Striplin as the instructor of a new two part 12 class martial arts program, “Learn Disciple. Build Character.” The first session classes will be held on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings starting Wednesday, August 26.
“We are excited to provide students of all ages the opportunity to learn self-discipline, build character, gain a new skill base and increase confidence,” says Don Enterline, Y CEO. “Tom has both an extensive martial arts background and the experience of guiding and challenging students. It’s a perfect way for our community to move, develop coordination, and gain confidence.”
Tom Striplin, a 4th Degree Black Belt and Master Instructor, began his training in the martial arts in 1983 studying Tae Kwon Do in Arlington Virginia under Master Kan. He then studied Japanese Shotokan Karate in California in 1986 and furthered his training in the Korean Art of Tang Soo Do at the National Academy in Lavale. He opened and operated American Martial Arts Academy in Lavale in 1998 and successfully ran the school for 13 years before selling the school in 2011 to pursue other endeavors. Tom is a certified instructor by Defend University (Phoenix Arizona) in Women’s self-defense tactics and enjoys teaching the principles of kickboxing and ground fighting techniques. He has taught hundreds of students in the martial arts and enjoys working with children and parents in learning and teaching the discipline.
Tom has been married to his wife Jaime for the past 26 years and they live in Mount Savage, MD. He is a professor of Respiratory Therapy at Allegany College of Maryland.
Registration for this karate program begins August 10th for members and August 17th for the community. Students ages 6 and older are encouraged to register and families can participate.
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