Larry Hill began his martial arts career while serving overseas in the U.S. Army from 1971-1972.  There, he was introduced to Karate.   Then in 1990 Larry came across an article about Stephen Hayes, and in 1992, Larry started to training at New York Budo. In 1998 Larry was promoted to Shodan and in 2006 he received his sandan (3rd degree black belt) from Anthony Lucas of the Bujinkan Koteki Dojo. On occassion, Larry teaches a basics class at the Koteki Dojo.  Latest News - Larry successfully passed his Godan 5th Dan test while visiting Japan, 2008.

Merridith Allen started training in mixed martial arts at the age of 9, as an after school activity.  Soon it became a passion and by 13 she obtained her first black belt.  After that, Merridith studied various styles of martial arts such as Kung Fu and Hapkido.  After a two year break following a severe injury, Merridith decided she had enough of bouncing around from style to style and began to look for a completely comprehensive system of martial arts.  What she found was Budo Taijutsu in 2004, and after a few classes she never looked back.  Merridith is a member of the Koteki Dojo, and has had the pleasure of training with many gifted practitioners in the New York area and abroad.  In 2006, she was promoted to Shodan by Arnaud Cousergue and in 2007, promoted by Anthony Lucas to Nidan and when Merridith made the trip to Japan in April, she was promoted to Sandan. In the following years, Merridith hopes to live up to the expectations of her teachers and of herself. Merridith just recently passsed her Godan test while in Japan, 2009. Merridith now co-instructs a beginners class on wednesday nights at 440 Studios.

Blaise Barron has been a major part of our dojo since 2007. Blaise is currently ranked at Sandan 3rd Dan. Blaise co - instructs our wednesday evening beginner basic class along with Merridith Allen. Blaise recently passed her Godan test while in Japan, 2009.  You can find Blaise every wednesday and friday at the dojo. A dedicated practitioner is rare to find.                                                                      More Black Belts