MEET THE LEADERSHIP TEAM
At Firestorm Martial Arts, our leadership team is made up of six highly skilled and passionate instructors who bring a combined wealth of experience in Zen Do Kai, Krav Maga, Filipino Martial Arts, and more.
Each instructor holds formal qualifications in martial arts, teaching, and first aid—with a strong focus on student safety, personal development, and practical self-defence. Whether you’re stepping on the mats for the first time or working toward black belt, our team is here to guide, support, and inspire you at every stage of your martial arts journey.
We’re proud to offer a positive, inclusive training environment where discipline meets encouragement, and every student—from Little Dragons to Adults—is given the tools to grow both on and off the mats.
KYOSHI MIKE
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Founder & Head Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts
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8th Degree Black Belt – Zen Do Kai
With over 40 years of martial arts experience, Kyoshi Mike is the founder of Firestorm and he began training in 1983, earned his black belt just three years later, and now holds senior instructor certifications in Muay Thai, Escrima, and BJMA Freestyle Karate.
Qualifications:
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Diplomas in Sports Coaching & Fitness
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First Aid Level 2 + COVID Marshal Certified
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Working With Children Check
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BJMA Black Belt Coordinator (2016–2023)
RENSHI CHRIS
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Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts
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4th Degree Black Belt – Zen Do Kai
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3rd Degree Black Belt – Krav Maga
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Level 1 Eskrima Instructor
With over 30 years of martial arts experience—including 25 in Zen Do Kai—Chris brings passion, knowledge, and dedication to every class. He’s trained internationally, including in Okinawa and New Zealand, and is committed to passing on his experience to the next generation of students.
Awards:
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Bushido of the Year 2023
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Rob Rode Award for Excellence 2024
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Assistant 4th Degree Coordinator
SENSEI SIMONE
Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts
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3rd Degree Black Belt – Zen Do Kai
Simone brings over 30 years of experience in early childhood education and 13 years of martial arts training to the dojo. Her passion for teaching and her structured, encouraging style make her a favourite among students aged 3 to 15 and beyond.​
Qualifications:
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Victorian Institute of Teaching
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First Aid Certified
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Cert III & IV in Education & Training
SENSEI ROB
Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts
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3rd Degree Black Belt – Zen Do Kai
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With over 16 years of experience in Zen Do Kai, Sensei Rob is a passionate instructor who emphasises strong technique, practical application, and body mechanics. His teaching helps students—from beginners to advanced—build confidence, control, and real-world self-defence skills.
Qualifications:
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First Aid & CPR Certified
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Working with Children Check
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Victorian Weapons Licence
SENSI LISA
Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts
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3rd Degree Black Belt – Zen Do Kai
With over 16 years of experience, Sensei Lisa is a dedicated instructor who empowers students to grow in both skill and mindset. Her teaching blends discipline with encouragement, helping students build confidence, resilience, and a strong technical foundation.
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Qualifications:
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First Aid & CPR Certified
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Working with Children Check
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Victorian Weapons Licence
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DAI SEMPAI JOEL
Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts
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2nd Degree Black Belt – Zen Do Kai
With over 10 years of martial arts experience and a background in education, Joel brings energy, passion, and a strong focus on personal growth to every class. His engaging teaching style supports a wide range of learning styles and age groups.
Qualifications:
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Bachelor of Exercise Science / Teaching
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First Aid Certified (inc. anaphylaxis & asthma)
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Working With Children Check
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VIT Registered Teacher