Assistant Instructor Bob Sciascia

I began my Martial Arts training in 1999 training doing basics stances and strikes with a friend. In September of 2000 I joined my first Kung Fu school, primarily studying Seven Star system of Praying Mantis under Sifu Gary Laird. In 2003 Sifu Gary moved to China to be with his wife; so I continued to train on my own and with fellow students of that school. At the same time I was finishing up my college degree in 2005, I knew something was missing in my life.

In spring of 2005 I decided to research local Kung Fu Schools. At that time I stopped by the Northern Shaolin Academy, and watched Sifu Jamal El teach a class. I knew at that moment this was the school I needed to be at; and I had yet to meet Master Smith. I was amazed to see there was more than one teacher of this caliber.

Though I thought I was in good shape and had trained in Kung Fu for a few years; training under Sigung Smith, Sifu Jamal, Sifu Eric and Sifu Denise was different. Over the next few months I noticed my body starting to change. My movements became crisp and flowing. At any point in time with in training history at the Northern Shaolin Academy I could look back at 6 months prior, and see I have changed significantly for the better.

In addition to concentrating my studying of Tien Shan Pai and Hsing I, I have the honor of getting exposure to many types of Kung Fu under Sigung and my Sifus. Sifu Jamal has helped refine my Praying Mantis and shown me some other Northern forms; Sifu Jamal and Sigung often integrate Southern styles such as 5 Family Hung Gar and Wing Chun; Sifu Eric and Sifu Denise develop the internal side of all styles I do, and Sigung has recently began to teach me Tai Chi. My fighting, self defense and forms continue to improve greatly; and I have learned many weapon sets including their applications. We also learn the history, the responsibility, and morality of Kung Fu.

There is nothing like the Northern Shaolin Academy. For a school to have just ONE Sifu of this caliber would make for a successful school. At the Northern Shaolin Academy I have had the privilege and honor of learning under 8 of the most skilled, talented, kind and patient Traditional Kung Fu Masters in the world. They are my teachers, mentors, family and friends. I can only hope to pass on this Kung Fu gift some day just as they are doing now.