Joseph Muscatello Named Director of Youth Program at Cromwell Martial Arts Center

Sifu Joseph Muscatello, a fourth degree Black Belt, was recently named as the director of the youth Kenpo Karate program at the Cromwell Martial Arts Center by Sensei Frank Shekosky, a sixth degree Black Belt.  “Sensei “ and “Sifu” are Japanese and  Chinese terms for “teacher.”  Sifu Joe began studying martial arts at the Middletown YMCA when he was five years old.  He fell in love with the discipline because it promoted physical fitness and confidence as well as practical knowledge.  Since then, he has studied various martial arts forms including tai chi and aikido.  About teaching he says, “It brings me great satisfaction to show students how to do something that they initially believe they can’t.  I love seeing the sense of pride on their faces as they master new skills.”  Sifu Joe  has been a member of the team of instructors at the Cromwell Martial Arts Center for the past twelve years.  In addition, Sifu Joe has traveled extensively with Sensei Shekosky to assist in teaching seminars in Modern Arnis all over the New England area.  Modern Arnis, a Filipino Martial Art using sticks, is a specialty of Sensei Shekosky.  Sifu Joe currently holds a second degree Black Belt in that art.

     Sifu Joe brings to his new position an immense passion for Kenpo Karate, as well as great patience and enthusiasm when working with children.  The youth Kenpo Karate program emphasizes discipline, self-control and self-confidence over fighting.  Classes are organized into ages 4 – 6, 7 – 13, and 14 and up.  New students are welcome to observe a class at the Cromwell Martial Arts Center at 871F Newfield Street, Middletown. The center has an introductory offer for $18, which includes 3 group classes and a uniform.  Sensei Shekosky and Sifu Joe are also available for private lessons. The Cromwell Martial Arts Center can be reached at (860) 632-8188 or through its website: www.cromwellmartialarts.com.