John Bannon

John Bannon has more than 25 years of martial arts experience and has been teaching for 22 years. John began The Columbia Martial Arts Academy approximately 20 years ago at the Columbia Athletic Club with less than 10 students. Now the program is hosted in three fitness facilities and has become a success for both kids and adults. John is the head instructor and owner of The Columbia Martial Arts Academy. He is also The Martial Arts Director for the Columbia Association (CA), overseeing all martial arts programs within CA. Outside of CA, John participates as the Maryland Director of KickUSA. KickUSA is a non-profit organization that promotes the positive benefits of martial arts to youth. He is also a national referee within the organization. Outside of the martial arts, John enjoys watching football and spending time with his wife and three boys.

"I feel that the martial arts help build positive qualities including discipline, respect, confidence, concentration, leadership, integrity and perseverance. Anyone, no matter what their ability or skill level is, has the opportunity to achieve success in the martial arts program.”

Alan Goldstein

Alan has been in the martial arts for 14 years, 12 of which he has spent as an instructor. He enjoys teaching classes of all ages but relates best with the older students. Alan received his second degree Black Belt at age 46. He is a chief referee for KickUSA tournaments. In addition to his time in the studio, he is the Pharmacist Manager at a local pharmacy. He is also an assistant professor of Clinical Pharmacy at the University of Maryland. Alan enjoys renovating his home and gardening.

"My philosophy on teaching karate students is the same as teaching pharmacy students in that I will tailor a student’s education specifically towards their abilities and goals. An individual’s progress is compared only against themselves."

Education:
Northeastern University College of Pharmacy & Allied Health

Rebecca Goldstein

Rebecca has 14 years of experience in the martial arts. As a second degree Black Belt, her favorite aspects of martial arts include sparring, Hapkido and teaching. She is the 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 Mid-Atlantic State Champion for the Female Black Belt division in sparring and forms. She also serves as a referee for tournaments. Outside of teaching martial art classes she enjoys writing, logic puzzles, British shows and reading.

"I encourage all females to join the martial arts. Learning to defend yourself is important and you will also gain valuable self-esteem, self-confidence and leadership skills."

Education:
Current Honors Student and Humanities Scholar at University of Maryland Baltimore County, Math and English majors

Eric Goldstein

Eric has taught 11 out of the 14 years he has practiced martial arts. In addition to holding a second degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, he trains in boxing, Muay Thai, Hapkido and Gracie Jiu-jitsu. Outside of teaching for CA, Eric operates Kang's Black Belt Academy in Baltimore. In his leisure time, Eric enjoys learning Arabic and Hebrew, debating politics, weight lifting and practicing Mixed Martial Arts.

"My main passion is to give all my students the ability to defend themselves."

Education:
Current student at University of Maryland Baltimore County, Economics major.