Master Instructor David Torres
Master Torres' martial arts journey is deeply rooted in his family's legacy and his own quest for knowledge and mastery. Influenced by his brother, Manuel, a Grandmaster of Shorin Ryu Karate, and his cousin Andy Serna, a Kajukembo Master, Master Torres was inspired to pursue martial arts from a young age.
Growing up in San Jose, far from his family's martial arts roots in Seattle, Master Torres sought out local training opportunities. He began his journey in Tae Kwon Do under the tutelage of renowned instructors such as Dan K Choi and Mike Zabalza, immersing himself in the intense and rigorous training of 'Old School' Combat Tae Kwon Do.
His martial arts exploration expanded further when he encountered Kuk Sool Won, witnessing its systematic approach to combat and the mastery of joint manipulation, pressure points, weaponry, and more. Under the guidance of Choon Sik Yang, a founding figure in the Kuk Sool curriculum, Master Torres deepened his understanding of martial arts and embraced its philosophy of determination and technical excellence.
In his ongoing quest for knowledge, Master Torres has recently ventured into Escrima, adding another dimension to his martial arts repertoire. Despite his diverse experiences, he finds himself drawn to Korean and Filipino martial arts, reflecting his passion for combat science and his continuous pursuit of excellence.
Master Torres's dedication to martial arts extends beyond his own training. He finds joy in sharing his knowledge, inspiring others, and educating the next generation. With a foundation built on family tradition and a lifelong commitment to combat science, Master Torres embodies the essence of martial arts in both his personal journey and his teachings.