Sifu Aaron began his training at Twin Dragon when he was 10 years old, attending his first class during the school’s opening month. Over the past 24 years, he has progressed from student to Senior Head Instructor. He earned his black belt in August 2011, just two days after his 21st birthday.
Inspired by GM Sijo John’s philosophy that “a black belt is only the beginning of your training,” Sifu continued to hone his skills with a focus on hand-to-hand techniques. During this time, he strived to understand the practical applications of traditional forms, a perspective that remains a key component of his advanced and adult classes.
In April 2024, he achieved the rank of Rokudan (6th degree black belt). With 16 years of teaching experience, he maintains a passion for instructing students of all ages. Sifu encourages his students to persevere in their goals both on and off the mat.
Beyond his training at Twin Dragon, Sifu has also pursued additional training in Wing Chun with Sifu Leo Alvarez. Recently Sifu Aaron had the honor to perform “Chum Kiu” for GM Sifu Chris Chan on his 85th birthday celebration and has been promoted to First Level Student.
Outside of the dojo, Sifu Aaron works as a bodyworker providing massage therapy and corrective exercise personal training, and is an avid musician who writes, records, and performs.
Sensei Tommy began his martial arts journey with Twin Dragon at the age of 6 and earned his black belt in 2015. For the past 11 years, Sensei has taught across all class levels at Twin Dragon including the Tiger Tots, Pee Wee, Junior and Adult programs. He has also been the lead instructor for our off site enrichment programs and martial arts demonstrations. In 2024, Sensei Tommy was promoted to the rank of Sandan (3rd degree) black belt.
Over the years, Sensei has developed a deep interest in the physical aspects of the martial arts. He emphasizes developing speed, stamina, and power through discipline and conditioning which also builds the mental fortitude necessary for his students to face any challenge. As an Instructor, Sensei Tommy ensures that his routines are tailored to the rank and level of his student. He believes that it is important that martial arts be not only challenging, but fun.
Outside of Twin Dragon, Sensei Tommy has continued to develop his martial artist skills by studying Kodakan Judo at Cahill’s Judo Academy, where he currently holds a green belt ranking.
Sensei Kyle has been a student of the martial arts since the age of 5 and has over 16 years of experience as an instructor. He earned his black belt in 2015 and was promoted to Nidan (2nd degree) black belt in 2024. While experienced in many areas of our martial arts, he considers his proficiency in Escrima to be his most developed skill set.
As an instructor, Sensei Kyle strikes a balance between the development of physical skills and the mental fortitude necessary for excellence. He believes that a good martial artist needs to be able to think through their actions, understanding not only what to do but also the why and how behind that movement. This philosophy is reflected in his sparring instruction, where he emphasizes a tactical approach rather than relying solely on physical dominance or agility.
In addition to his instructor duties, Sensei Kyle leads many of Twin Dragon’s extracurricular programs including summer and winter camps, birthday parties, off-site enrichment classes, and other special events.
“Programs such as our summer camps provide an important way for Twin Dragon to interact with and outreach to the greater community in our area. It is our hope that Twin Dragon Martial Arts Academy is able to fulfill its role not only as a place of learning, but also as a pillar of our local community that enriches the lives of all our students.”
Sensei Paola began her journey at Twin Dragon in 2008 at the age of 6 and earned her Black Belt in 2018. Throughout her years here at Twin Dragon, Sensei consistently volunteered to help our youngest martial artists, eventually becoming an assistant instructor. Since then, Sensei Paola has advanced to her current position as the Head Instructor of the Tiger Tot Program and has now been teaching for the past 10 years.
Sensei Paola’s Tiger Tot classes focus on developing the basic fundamental and gross motor skills for young children. These skills include balance, coordination, and perhaps most importantly the listening and focus needed to succeed in the more advanced Pee Wee and Junior programs.
When she is not educating our youngest members, Sensei Paola works as a behavior technician supporting children with autism. She is currently studying Psychology and Occupational Therapy at the Dominican University of California.
“My goal is to create a fun, safe, and encouraging space where young students can build confidence, focus, and strong skills.”
