Leadership Group | Firestorm Martial Arts

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

Founder & Head Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts
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:

Diplomas in Sports Coaching & Fitness
First Aid Level 2 + COVID Marshal Certified
Working With Children Check
BJMA Black Belt Coordinator (2016–2023)

RENSHI CHRIS

Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts
4th Degree Black Belt – Zen Do Kai
3rd Degree Black Belt – Krav Maga
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:

Bushido of the Year 2023
Rob Rode Award for Excellence 2024
Assistant 4th Degree Coordinator

SENSEI SIMONE

Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts

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:

Victorian Institute of Teaching
First Aid Certified
Cert III & IV in Education & Training

SENSEI ROB

Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts

3rd Degree Black Belt – Zen Do Kai

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:

First Aid & CPR Certified
Working with Children Check
Victorian Weapons Licence

SENSI LISA

Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts

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.

Qualifications:

First Aid & CPR Certified
Working with Children Check
Victorian Weapons Licence

DAI SEMPAI JOEL

Instructor – Firestorm Martial Arts

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:

Bachelor of Exercise Science / Teaching
First Aid Certified (inc. anaphylaxis & asthma)
Working With Children Check
VIT Registered Teacher