Instructors

 Mr. Scott Palermo, 

Owner of Self-Defense Academy

I started my martial arts studies in 1999. I earned my 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree Black Belts under Mr. Gary Ronemus. I was an instructor with Mr. Ronemus until his retirement. Mr. Ronemus retired as a 9th degree Kenpo Black Belt. I am currently a 5th degree Black Belt  and have been an instructor for many years teaching all ages from pre-school through adult. 

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Certifications: PA Child Abuse History Clearance, PA State Police Criminal Record Check, PA Mandated Reporter Training, FBI Fingerprinted and Darkness to Light: Stewards of Children Training. 

Community Education Partner of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Mr. Lego is a 4th Degree Kenpo Black Belt. He had originally started his studies in Baltimore under Mr. Joe Palanzo. After taking time off from his studies, Mr. Lego resumed his Kenpo education under Mr. Gary Ronemus and earned his black belt in October of 2005. Mr. Lego and Mr. Scott were promoted together from 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree. Mr. Lego is a regular instructor who brings a great deal of knowledge to the studio. 

Mr. "V" is a second degree black belt. He started his Kenpo journey with Mr. Ronemus. Life redirected his path and Mr. V served our Country in the United Stated Army. He is a Gulf War Veteran who served in the Middle East inside a tank.

After getting married and starting a family, Mr. Vaden resumed his Kenpo studies and earned his black belt under Mr. Larry Paul.

We are thrilled that Mr. V is now part of the Self-Defense Academy Family!

Steven is a first degree black belt in American Kenpo Karate. He is a regular instructor in both the kids' and the adult classes.

Steven has a Bachelor Degree in Video Game Design and has been working in the industry for 7 years. He is the owner and lead designer in his own gaming company. Stellar Knights.

Certifications: PA Child Abuse History Clearance

My name is Nick Steinke. I am currently a first degree degree black. He has been studying Kenpo for about nine years now. 

I am enrolled in North American Trade Schools in Maryland to learn the building and construction trades. 

My name is Mr. Anton Moolman.  I am from South Africa.  I have been studying Kenpo  for 7 years now, and I'm a First Degree  Black Belt. I love Martial Arts and  teaching. I want to help the students excel  in the arts and get better every day. It  teaches discipline, self control, respect and boosts your self confidence. I encourage  others to join us and learn to protect yourself and your loved ones, to get fit, and  have fun while learning. Remember that it's  not about the color of the belt that makes you a great Martial Artist. The only thing a  belt is good for is to hold your pants up. Just enjoy your journey.  

Mr. "Pat" earned his black belt in August of 2014. Mr. Pat brings a lot of energy and creativity to the studio. 

 Certifications: PA Child Abuse History Clearance, PA State Police Criminal Record Check, PA Mandated Reporter Training, FBI Fingerprinted and Darkness to Light: Stewards of Children Training.