Our School & Instructors
About Findlay Martial Arts
Findlay Martial Arts is a family-oriented martial arts center which has been in operation for over 20 years. We love to see students grow as people, as well as growing as practitioners. That is the real joy of teaching, and the real reason our academy is here. Just as people are varied in tastes and abilities, we teach in varied styles and disciplines. We also have training in various skill levels, from beginning children to adult black belts.
John Paxton has been the owner and Chief Instructor of Findlay Martial Arts Academy since 1998. Mr. Paxton holds a 4th degree black belt in Kempo Karate, as well as black belts in Tae Kwondo, Iaido, and Sogobudo.
Mr. Paxton has earned the title of Shidoin by graduating and receiving teaching license from Japan Budo Sei Shin Kan Instructor Training Program. He also has completed the International Personal Protection Training Program and presently continues his training in Iaido and other forms of martial arts. Mr. Paxton attends numerous seminars to constantly improve his skills as a martial artist and as an instructor.
Amy Frost
Amy Frost is the Chief Assistant Instructor at Findlay Martial Arts Academy. She currently holds the rank of NiDan (2nd degree black belt). Mrs. Frost has many duties as chief assistant. She runs the classes when Mr. Paxton is not on the floor, she judges belt testing for all ranks including the Little Ninjas. She also assists with the fitness kickboxing class. She continues her studies in the arts by attending many seminars and by studying the art of Iaido. She has close to 10 years of experience.
David Barkey
Matthew Barkey
Matthew Barkey, Assistant Instructor, holds ShoDan rank and has 11 years experience.
Austin Elliot
Austin Elliott, Assistant Instructor, holds the rank of ShoDan. Mr. Elliott has over 11 years of experience and is working toward the rank of NiDan.
Matt Maurer
Matt Maurer, Assistant Instructor, holds the rank of ShoDan. Mr. Maurer is a student at Bowling Green State University where he has started a karate club. Mr. Maurer has over 6 years of experience.
Shelly Conrod
Shelly Coonrod, Assistant Instructor, holds the rank of ShoDan. Ms. Coonrod is one of our newest black belts and is a valuable asset to our dojo.
Samuel Majors
Samuel Majors, Jr. Assistant Instructor, holds ShoDan rank. Mr. Majors had previous training in the martial arts before joining Findlay Martial Arts Academy in Sept. 2005.
Peter Steinberger
Peter Steinberger, Assistant Instructor, holds ShoDan rank. Mr. Steinberger is a dedicated student, driving many miles every week to continue his studies and to assist in class whenever needed.