Meet Our Expert Instructors: Guiding Your Martial Arts Journey with Passion and Expertise
ROBERTO R PADUA-Owner and Head Instructor
Master Roberto Padua is a dedicated martial artist with a wealth of experience and knowledge. Holding a 5th Dan Master Black Belt under the esteemed Master Lyne Landry, Master Padua's journey in martial arts began in 1992 at the Anderson Boys Club in Waterbury, CT. He earned his black belt (Dan #691) in Cheezic Tang Soo Do in 1996. Despite life's demands, Master Padua's passion for martial arts persisted. After a hiatus, he resumed training in 2010 under Master Lyne Landry, solidifying his commitment to excellence. A true practitioner of diverse disciplines, Master Padua also trains in Korean Sword, Haidong Gumdo under Master Berube, and holds a Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Christ Martel. His dedication extends to Sin Moo Tang Soo Hapkido under John Godwin, exemplifying his lifelong pursuit of mastery. |
Mrs. Switaj -Assistant Instructor
2nd Dan (Degree) Black Belt Mrs. Switaj's martial arts journey began in 2008 at Central Connecticut State University, where she immersed herself in Tang Soo Do. Her determination and dedication led her to earn her black belt (Dan #2344) on April 26th, 2013. Originally from Naugatuck, CT, Mrs. Switaj later moved to Westbrook, CT, taking on a role as a Special Education Teacher at East Lyme High School. As an Assistant Instructor, Mrs. Switaj brings her passion and expertise to our dojo, creating a positive and impactful learning environment for all students. |
Grandmaster Cheezic
1/2/1939 to 1/17/2021
Grandmaster Cheezic, a visionary and pioneer, left an indelible mark on the world of martial arts. During his service in the U.S. Air Force stationed in Korea in 1959, he earned black belt #2278 in Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do from the style's founder, Hwang Kee. Inspired by his deep connection to the art, Grandmaster Cheezic returned to the United States and began sharing the wisdom of Tang Soo Do within his Waterbury, Connecticut community.
With unwavering dedication, what commenced with a single student flourished into the Cheezic Tang Soo Do Federation, a globally renowned organization that has spanned more than half a century. Grandmaster Cheezic's teachings, values, and principles continue to shape the lives of thousands of members worldwide, emphasizing the profound journey of martial arts beyond the physical techniques.
1/2/1939 to 1/17/2021
Grandmaster Cheezic, a visionary and pioneer, left an indelible mark on the world of martial arts. During his service in the U.S. Air Force stationed in Korea in 1959, he earned black belt #2278 in Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do from the style's founder, Hwang Kee. Inspired by his deep connection to the art, Grandmaster Cheezic returned to the United States and began sharing the wisdom of Tang Soo Do within his Waterbury, Connecticut community.
With unwavering dedication, what commenced with a single student flourished into the Cheezic Tang Soo Do Federation, a globally renowned organization that has spanned more than half a century. Grandmaster Cheezic's teachings, values, and principles continue to shape the lives of thousands of members worldwide, emphasizing the profound journey of martial arts beyond the physical techniques.