Master Michael A. Molinaro is founder, owner, and chief instructor of Tang Soo Do of Central New York. He is a 41 year veteran of the martial arts community. Master Molinaro started his career in 1980. He attended classes in self defense and Tae Kwon Do, until he met Master John Barry Beam in Lancaster, PA. Master Beam is one of the founding fathers of the World Tang Soo Do Association (WTSDA), and could be called the "martial artist's martial artist." He is skilled in Tang Soo Do, Hapkido, Ninjitsu, Ki Gong, Black Tiger Kung Fu, Hypnotism, and several weapons. Needless to say, many of these elements were packed into Master Molinaro's training. No two classes were the same, and the training was tough. But the (then) young student Molinaro soaked it up like a sponge.

In addition to Master Beam's intense training, Master Molinaro happened upon Master Stan Hart from Mansfield, OH. Master Hart offered a unique approach to self defense, refining ancient techniques and methods (originally taught at the Shuri Village in Okinawa). Master Hart, an accomplished Shotokan practitioner, learned many of these techniques from Taika Oyata from Okinawa. From there Master Hart continually perfected his techniques and methods, and had select proteges such as Master Molinaro. These techniques and methods were not easily grasped, but Master Molinaro endured to reach a skill level shared by few.

In time, Master Molinaro traveled extensively to work with several great Masters, and trained directly with Grandmaster Shin himself. He went on to receive many awards (such as a Grand champion trophy, and the WTSDA Round Table award for dedication). He has served on the WTSDA building committee, and chaired a Regional Scholarship committee. In time, he reached the rank of fifth degree black belt and title of "Ko Dan Ja (Sr. Master)" in Tang Soo Do, and seventh degree black belt in Shurite Kempo Technique, and the title of Cheif Instructor of the Shurite Kempo Technique Association.

Master Molinaro, in addition to his regular classes, presents an annual self defense seminar called "The Guard," drawing students from a five state radius!

Christa has been around the martial arts for decades, first watching Mike train and develop and then started training herself in 1990. She brings the best of the old and new karate world into the studio.

Tom has been in Tang Soo Do his whole life! He is a great practitioner and patient teacher of children. He has traveled extensively to tournaments and clinics and continues to learn.

Mr. Roy had the pleasure of training and receiving his black belt under Master Molinaro's instructor, Master John Beam. He also has trained for several years directly with Master Molinaro. Joe maintains a structured environment for all, with a special focus on the studio's roots and protocol. He also coordinates the black belt club for instructors to gather and train!

Mr. Lester has trained and attended many regional functions over the years, He has a special focus on breaking down and explaining techniques, as well as stretching and other yoga influences! It is a welcome compliment to the studio's structured and disciplined approach, adding balance to the mix!

Scott is a very dedicated student and teacher. He brings that sense of dedication to the teens and adults in his classes. Scott is also an expert in strength training, brining yet another element to the studio.