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Tao Martial Arts proudly serving Mesa
Tao Martial Arts has classes in Mesa, perfect for kids, teen, and adult martial arts lessons.
Who we Are And why You Should Train Here
Since we’ve opened, we’ve been dedicated to changing the lives of people one person at a time, through martial arts, education and coaching. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for all students and family members. We take pride in creating an environment for individuals to achieve, develop and succeed in their personal goals.
We strongly believe that martial arts can be for everyone, regardless of age, gender or experience levels. Throughout all of our programs, students will not only learn the necessary skill sets to protect themselves, we stand behind our realistic and practical approach, confident it will enable every member to achieve greatness and live their best life..
Get To Know Our World Class Instructors
Chief Instructor
Benjamin Ferguson
Started training in the martial arts in 1997, with the World Tang Soo Do Association in Reno, NV under Masters John and Carla Bennett as well as Master Steve Davis under the World Chi Gong Hapkido Association. Additionally, they were lucky enough to train under Master Marc Fortin in Kwan Um Do Kwang.
After enlisting in the US Navy they began to expand training in not just traditional martial arts but also military training. During their Rescue Swimmer training they had a unique opportunity to train in a unique style of Kung Fu called Nabard. This new style and military experience gave new insights into a broader understanding of martial arts. They also attended a Split Second Survival Clinic put on by the system’s founder, Larry Wick. The concepts of this system opened up his understanding of how martial arts aspects can be used in self-defense situations but must be adapted for the modern day.
These experiences ignited an everlasting love of not only martial arts and its nuances but how to understand them in a modern and realistic approach.
Throughout their 12 years of naval service they continued training in Tang Soo Do, Hapkido, and Ki Gong They also also sought out schools to train out whenever possible and gained some great experiences in a variety of styles. They also went through rigorous training and deployment to Afghanistan with the special forces and trained in military combatives, special weapon tactics, and certified on a slew of both lethal and non-lethal firearms and weapons. This training greatly benefited from the martial arts training and gave new insights and a deeper understanding of how to apply martial arts techniques into realistic and modern day use.
Benjamin Ferguson was awarded 12 medals and a variety of ribbons and awards, to include the National Intelligence Professional Award, given personally from the Director of National Security, James Clapper.
They finished their naval service in 2019 and moved to the Phoenix area, and took up formal martial arts training again, while attending ASU for his Bachelors of Science in Sociology. They returned to the World Tang Soo Do Association and started training at the Martial Arts Academy of Tang Soo Do Arizona in Tempe under the tutelage of Masters Stephanie and Ian Larson.
In 2022, they graduated Suma Cum Laude from Arizona State University, as well as awarded a Black Belt in Hapkido, and was officially certified as an instructor in Split Second Survival.
They decided to share the extensive knowledge learned over decades and opened Tao Martial Arts.
- 2 World Silver Medals
- 2 Time Regional Grand Champion
- 3 Regional Gold Medals
- 4 Regional Silver Medals
- 1 Regional Bronze Medal
Instructor
Justin Chandler
Started martial arts training in the 80s in Tang Soo Do and Hapkido. Trained for years and earned his Black Belt in Tang Soo Do. Had the privilege of training at the headquarters studio of the World Tang Soo Do Association before it moved out of Pennsylvania.
He took a hiatus from martial arts as he worked through medical school. After settling in Arizona and establishing himself as a trauma surgeon he decided to start back up in the martial arts.
He since has joined up with Tao Martial Arts and trains with us. He also assists in teaching the adult classes and Hapkido classes.
- 2 Regional Gold Medals
- 1 Regional Silver Medal
- 1 Regional Bronze Medals
Senior Instructor Trainee
Zoeanna Torrey
Zoie is a passionate and dedicated assistant karate instructor at Tao Martial Arts. Her journey began at age 7 in 2017 with Universal Tang Soo Do. Zoie then moved to World Tang Soo Do and earned her black belt in October 2022. To date, she has won 7 regional medals. Zoie brings a kind and knowledgeable approach to the dojo, fostering a supportive learning environment for students of all ages and skill levels.
Beyond technical expertise, Zoie values the core principles of martial arts, such as discipline, respect, and self-control. She strives to instill these values in all Tao students, creating a well-rounded learning experience. Zoie inspires students with her focused dedication and ability to break down complex movements. Zoie is a valuable asset to the Tao team and is excited to watch everyone grow on their martial arts journey.
Additionally, she is one of the most experienced students in Split Second Survival Self Defense and has attended two of the annual seminars.
- 2 Regional Gold Medals
- 1 Regional Silver Medal
- 4 Regional Bronze Medals
Instructor Trainee
Terri McCann
Our most senior Black Belt in training. Terri has trained in multiple martial art styles and is now in the final steps to complete her Black Belt with the World Tang Soo Do Association.
She is a wonderful addition to the training team and always brings joy to every class she is in. She helps teach the adult classes and is also training in Hapkido.
Additionally, she is one of the most experienced students in Split Second Survival Self Defense and has attended two of the annual seminars.
- 2 Regional Silver Medals
- 1 Regional Bronze Medals