USA Kung Fu Academy

September 20th, 2012

*************************************************************************************************
September 14th, 2012

My name is Christian and I am writing this in hope that it may help whomever may read to choose the best martial arts academy on Cape Cod.  First, I would like to tell you a little about myself so you will have an idea of who's opinion you are reading.  I am in my late twenties and am employed by the State of Massachusetts in the law enforcement field and have seven years on the job.  I am a sceptical person by nature and question everything till I feel I have found the truth.  In general I am an active person who like many people in my line of work runs and lifts to stay in shape.  The running and weight have kept me in shape but Kung Fu has increased my strength, stamina, and speed more than I would have guessed while I have been learning a life long skill. 

Sifu Cruz is an extremely talented Kung Fu practitioner and teacher.  I have found in my time training that Sifu Cruz is a true Master of the art, which I believe is apparent to anyone who sees him teach.  Sifu has developed an academy that not only teaches real Kung Fu but also a program that can help anyone reach there goals to train as hard or not so hard as they choose for themselves.  The skillful way in which he teaches has produced numerous black sash students/instructors. 

The black sash instructors are as energetic and passionate about the art as anyone could hope for.  They are also extremely helpful and knowledgeable and their guidance along the path to achieving your goal is a great help.

Although, I began the program to strictly learn self-defense, I have now come to embrace many other aspects of  Kung as well.  Lastly, the positive community environment that is present among all is astounding.  The diverse group of people that attend the academy working towards the great common goal of mastering Kung Fu is something I had never witnessed and I am glad to be a part of it.

Christian Jansen

****************************************************************************************************
March 2011

Our family has been part of the USA Kung Fu Academy for over eight years, with our oldest son, now a black sash and our middle son, now beginning his training.  We have been proud to watch their confidence and skills grow along with friendships and a few trophies! Sifu Eric Cruz and his staff have been wonderful role models to our boys: not only teaching them Kung Fu, but more importantly lessons about life to aid in their development. “Achievement through effort” has reached into all areas of their lives-including honor roll. Our sons have a lifelong art/sport they can participate in at any level for: enjoyment, health and fitness, competition, and mental balance.
We also enjoy participating in the family and charity events for the community. USA Kung Fu Academy rocks!

Pamela Walsh, M.Ed. & Capt. Don Walsh


*****************************************************************************************************
July 2010 

 
I have been coming to classes and practicing kung fu since December 2004, and attending tai chi classes for about 4 years I attained my Black Sash on April 24th, 2010. Over time I’ve gotten to know a little about my classmates and Sifu. There is mostly nothing but kindness and care within everyone at this school and some good humor in the morning classes I attend that can turn my mood around. I’ve learned a lot from experiences here, not just about martial arts but about myself. I feel very fortunate to have such a great group of people to learn from, and share experiences with here on Cape Cod. It is an honor for me to train as a student of Sifu Eric Cruz and as classmates of the other students at USA Kung Fu Academy.

Joseph Mysliwiec.
*****************************************************************************************************
I am 61 years old. During my youth I was a running back with the Oakland Raiders and N.Y. Jets and during my collegiate years set records in track and field.I've enjoyed my business career as a financial planner on Cape Cod meeting and advising hundreds of clients over the years.

Sounds great so far! 
Then my life took a steep turn downward. A difficult divorce proved devastating. Life had no direction. 
Then I was introduced to Sifu Cruz at USA Kung Fu Academy in Hyannis. 
Touching my toes was equivalent to jumping across the Cape Cod Canal. However, through the encouragement and leadership of Sifu his instructors as well as the students I soon received a white belt. 
" Wow, a white belt" might be your sarcastic reaction. But Sifu would reiterate " Every black belt was a white belt that wanted to be a black belt." The journey began.

It was not easy. Sifu is a special human being and teacher. He knew the violent and competitive nature of the world I lived in during my N.F.L. days. 
He respected that. He did not want me to discard that part of me but instead change my mindset towards athleticism   and grow accordingly. 
The emphasis was self esteem and development through Kung Fu.Each sash and each form presented a new and difficult challenge. I was competing with myself. No one else. 
A green belt now drapes my body. " Wow a green belt " might still be your reaction. But remember a black belt was a green belt that wanted to be a black belt !

Remember " Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished " Lao Tzu 
May God Bless Sifu and his teachings….. 
        
Dennis Cambal     Yarmouthport, Ma 

******************************************************************************************************
Our family has been attending the USA Kung Fu Academy for over two years.  As responsible parents, we wanted to ensure that the training both ourselves and our children receive is not only rigorous, but taught in a balanced and responsible manner.  After considerable research into the different styles of martial arts as well as the schools available in the area, we happily decided to attend USA Kung Fu.

Although we had already decided that traditional Kung Fu and Tai Chi styles would be the most beneficial for our family, due not only to their effectiveness in defense but the mental and spiritual balance that can be attained through them regardless of personal theological beliefs, it was the environment that Sifu Eric Cruz provides within his schools and the man himself that made the decision easy.  To date we have never had any regrets about our choice, and have consistently recommended his schools to our friends and family, and hope to have three generations in attendance by the end of the year. 
Both of us have lived and received education and training in Asia.  Therefore, we were able to recognize immediately the discipline, respect, and dedication to traditional methods common to most Asian training environments that Sifu Cruz has instilled in his schools.  In addition, he recognizes the uniqueness of American culture and the environment he has created embraces this and infuses the two approaches successfully without loosing anything in the process.
Aside from providing a martial arts training environment far superior to what we ever would have expected to be available on Cape Cod, Sifu Cruz and his program have become integral to our family.  Reinforcing values in our children that we all try to instill; such as self discipline, control, and achievement through effort (which is the English translation of Kung Fu) as well as respecting, honoring, and caring for both themselves and others, Sifu Cruz has provided an environment for these and other lessons we teach our children to take hold more readily than in other common venues and influences of our society.
The program at USA Kung Fu, and the willingness of Sifu Cruz and his instructors to listen to students and help with issues both related and unrelated to the training itself have provided a resource to our family both as a unit and as individuals that we hope to continue in perpetuity.  Anyone wishing to improve their mind, body, and spirit can find no better resource than Sifu Cruz and the USA Kung Fu Academy.

Patrick & Sunny McGuinness

Yarmouthport, MA

******************************************************************************************************

"I have been taking Tai Chi under Sifu Cruz for almost a month.  I am 47 years old and have degenerative disc disease, herniated and bulging discs throughout my spine, cervical and lumbar spondylosis and chronic sciatica.  After having tried 3 courses of physical therapy and having 2 epidural steroid injections for which neither worked and still having tremendous pain, I thought I'd give Tai Chi a try.  To my amazement, after the first 2 classes, I still had pain and stiffness, but it was working compared to what I have endured over the past 7 years.  With each class, my abdominal, thigh, and gluteal muscles got stronger because of the workout, and the fact that Sifu Cruz is teaching me proper body mechanics which is something I was never taught in nursing school.

At the same time that I am learning these forms, I have been observing that Sifu Cruz is a hard working, dedicated, honorable man who cares very much for his students and their well-being.  I am very glad that I have been given the opportunity to take his Tai Chi and am honored and grateful that Sifu Cruz is teaching me.  He is THE BEST!!!"

Josie R. Dornback RN, Tai Chi student and mother of Andy Dornback, Kung Fu student

******************************************************************************************************

"To whom it may concern:

Our 7 year old son has been taking Kung Fu under Sifu Cruz's tutelage for the past 3 years.  He began his martial arts career at the age of 3 1/2 at a Karate school; however after a year, he became frustrated because it was clear that the students were not as important as the number of students and the incoming money.

At this time, we found the USA Kung Fu Academy and transferred him.  What a difference! The classes at the USA Kung Fu Academy are small, there is always more than one instructor and it is clearly evident that the students are not just a number.

The instructors here are always kinds, caring, respectful and helpful to not only the students but for us parents as well.  This is all due to Sifu Cruz, who expects and demands this of his instructors who he has taught since they were young children.  This is a commendable feat for one person to attain but he (Sifu Cruz), did it.  He is one incredible, hard working, passionate, dedicated man who had this dream.  When he is with our son and his class you can see how much he loves the children and is teaching them not only Kung Fu but also self-confidence, self-esteem and respect for themselves and others; something this country is lacking these days.  He is also very protective of our children.

We are extremely grateful to Sifu Cruz for teaching our son.

Mr. and Mrs. Don Dornback, Jr., parents of Andrew Dornback

******************************************************************************************************

My name is Marilyn Rhude, I'm 36 years old, a pilot for a local airline, and a mother of three.  I was looking for a martial arts program for my son who was 6 years old.  Our neighbor's son was a student at USA Kung Fu Academy, so we decided to enroll in their program.  That was two years ago.  Since 
taking up kung fu, my son has become more confident, focused, and athletic.  He has shown growth in mental and physical strength.  And he really enjoys the camaraderie with his instructors and fellow students.  In fact, we've been so pleased with the program, I've also started attending classes at USA 
Kung Fu Academy.  I enjoy the exercise and the mental challenge involved with Kung Fu.  I also appreciate the self-defense aspect of our classes and we also have a lot of fun.  The instructors are knowledgeable and dedicated and keep the classes interesting.  I look forward to enrolling my other two 
children when they are old enough. 

Marilyn C. Rhude

******************************************************************************************************

"It was that time of year again.  The Cape's "SEASON" was over, the holidays were looming and winter was just waiting to start trouble.  Im a matter of weeks, I was already physically out of shape and in a few more I would be an emotional mess.  Best look for a workout program.

Long story short, I've been involved in a number of different exercise programs in my lifetime:  aerobics, swimming, pilates, yoga, weight training.  I've done sports of every kind:  basketball, tennis, skiing, biking, hiking, skating, fencing, rock climbing, sailing, kayaking.  All of which have benefited me in one way or another but none of which has brought me to the promised land.  You know, where your efforts pay off big time with the much talked about "endorphine rush".  I liken this desire to my own personal crusade for the 'holy grail'.  It is quite possible I've experienced it but sine there is such hype about it, I fear I didn't or don't recognize it and it went unnoticed.

Any suggestion that I consider Tai Chi has been made in the past by my daughter, herself a student of martial arts who had become particularly enamored of Kung Fu, but I pooh-poohed the idea.  Why do I want to move in slow-motion?  I've gotta get up and go go go so I can burn burn burn.  I dont have the time or inclination to philosophize grasshopper!

In the end it was the Sunday newspaper that came to the rescue, specifically the Parade section.  An article caught my eye.  The subject matter:  Tai Chi and it's benefits.  I read on.  I was intrigued.  I had already accepted the fact that I was lucky once to have the body of a 20 year old and I've always known I was not willing to torture myself into a perfectly-toned-mature-women's body a la Jane Fonda.  I wanted an exercise program that I would never want to leave.  One that I would embrace as a lifestlye.  One that I would and could do for many years to come.  So . . . I gathered myself up and drove over to the USA Kung Fu Academy of Hyannis, where my daughter trained and where I knew a Tai Chi program was offered under the tutelage of Sifu Eric Cruz.

I already had my notions about Sifu Cruz.  I knew he was committed to his art, his school, his students.  However, I also knew he had made an incredible impact on my daughter as she anguished over what, for her, was a very difficult choice.  The choice to leave the Cape and finish her college education would mean leaving her Kung Fu training when she could almost taste her black sash.  She was torn.  Sifu Cruz knew exactly the right words to give her the courage to be able to make her decision.  She is 3 months away from graduating.  From this single gesture I knew that this was a man of integrity.

It's about 5 months now that I have been attending Tai Chi classes.  Sifu Cruz teaches each class with great knowledge but more importantly with a genuine enthusiasm.  As a former teacher and ski instructor, I feel reassured when he comments that "he too is a student", that he is aware that he "has to continue to study and learn" and that he "learns so much through teaching" us.  His enthusiasm and love for his art is infectious.  I look forward to my twice weekly classes wishing that I could go every day.  I have found a program where I not only feel healthy and strong but one which allows me to feel at peace in both body and mind.  Summer's not long off now and work will likely take me away from classes, but once the "SEASON" is over I know where I will once again find myself.  You got it.  I'll be back at USA Kung Fu Academy's Tai Chi classes with Sifu Cruz and "the ladies".

Elizabeth Liuzzi, Tai Chi student and Cape Cod Tour Guide

******************************************************************************************************
Dear Sifu Cruz,

It is my pleasure to give a reference regarding the USA Kung Fu Academy in Hyannis, MA.  I have trained as a martial artist for over 20 years studying Judo, Aikido and Tai-Chi. I consider myself knowledgeable on the subject and particular as to what qualifies as a fulfilling and effective martial art.  There is a lot of junk passed off as martial art.  I find the USA Kung Fu Academy to be a highest level, highest quality school of martial arts.  I am particularly impressed with the quality of the Kung- Fu and Tia-Chi taught at your school, the fact that you are associated with United International Kung Fu Federation, and that you are still an ardent student of Kung Fu under ShiJiao G. Crayton, despite your dedicated mastery and recognition in the arts. The fact that every teacher has a teacher in your system is assurance of high quality and profound lineage of the teaching.

I have trained over three years and my son has trained over two years, and my daughter trained for a short time.  I have referred several friends and employees to your school.  I will continue to train indefinitely, or till you tell me I am too old and so bad that I must stop embarrassing myself and your school.

The signs that this is a school of highest quality, dedicated, martial art are:

All ages are practicing from 5 to 75+ years old  (I am 52)
Girls and Women are present in all classes and do well
You have chosen excellent students to also be teachers and I think they all do and did a great job
Dedicated, courteous and very helpful black belts (impressive too)
Good feeling and atmosphere at all classes, despite rigorous training

But the most important aspect of the school is the dedicated, constant, concerned, expertise and guidance you have provided since the day I walked into your school. I trust you with my children and am happy to endorse your work and your school.  I know it has benefited me and my family.

I would be happy to answer any inquiries or be of assistance in any way.

Bob Livingston

President and CTO

Arion Water, Inc. 

******************************************************************************************************
I keep hearing that kung-fu is about the mind, body and spirit. When I joined as a single mom of 2 teenagers, I just didn't "get it"... spirit?  I just wanted to train my body, spend time with my daughter and find something to do with her that didn't involve television or video games.  Well we've certainly been working on training our bodies, and we sure do spend time at the Kwan together, but more importantly I'm finally starting to "get it".  Kung fu isn't just the physical training I was looking for, it's about harmony within the body, balancing the physical with the mental, and searching within yourself to give that little bit more you just didn't know you had. 

I won't kid you, I don't find it easy.  Beginning something brand new in your 40's in always different than trying your hand at something new as a kid.  But what is an accomplishment if it's simply handed to you? (oh, kung-fu means accomplishment through effort)  Yes I get frustrated, and yes I've needed my instructors to repeat the same movements over and over and over and over again, and sometimes when I finally have the move figured outit disappears from my head into the great cosmos!.  But, Sifu and all the other instructors that so willingly give of their time show me that missing move one more time, and then again and again and again.  They certainly have more patience for me than I do some nights.

I have found so much laughter in the Kwan, have made some wonderful friends, have spent some incredible quality time with my daughter, have improved my balance, and coordination, etc.  But most important to me is how my attitude about myself has changed.  In the beginning, I needed constant encouragement from my instructors, letting me know that I wasn't a failure for not understanding something.  That was the attitude I had with myself, I was a failure.  Not in their eyes though, that attitude wasn't permitted.  I showed up class after class, always being met by positive reinforcement, until I finally figured out for myself that a failure is only a failure, when they quit trying.  So, I just keep showing up and trying! I now know that it's not about perfection, certainly not at my level, but about my effort, my attitude, and my belief in myself.

I don't think I could ever put into words how I feel about kung-fu, and more specifically the people that support the Kwan.  They have never given up on me, they give me the encouragement I need to challenge myself, they have shown me the baby steps to take to achieve greater goals, and they have intelligently gotten out of my way while I'm still trying to conquer those jump kicks.

Thanks to all who have helped make the beginning of this journey such a positive one.  You know who you are, and I will always keep you close to my heart.  Karen
Spa Director
Aerobic Instructor
Housemaid to 2 teenagers
Chauffer to the same
11 months invested in kung-fu as of 3/06 a lifetime to go

******************************************************************************************************
03/08/06

I have been enrolled now at USA Kung Fu Academy in Hyannis MA for about 3 and half years. I quickly became interested after we signed up our three children. The forms they practiced seemed so graceful, but yet very effective if ever needed in a confrontation (hopefully that situation would never happen).  Having wrestled in high school I thought that I might have retained some defensive tactics. I was surprised at how little I knew, but with the patience of a very talented instructor, Sifu Eric Cruz, I am starting to discover it's the complete package of proper breathing, balance, flow and focus that are the tools to be a true Martial Artist.

              My only regret is that I didn't discovered Kung Fu earlier. It is a true art form and has become an important part of my life. I can only wish that after cross country, basketball and softball and any other sport that our children may become involved with that they will always be able to carry on with Kung Fu. It actually helps immensely with all those other activities through confidence and proper body mechanics.                  

              Personally I feel that what I have learned is just a fraction of what this ancient and extremely interesting art has to offer. I always leave class looking forward to the next one. I would recommend the Kung Fu that is taught by Sifu Cruz and his other black sashes to anyone who wants to enhance his or her mind, body and spirit.

Sincerely,

Paul Cunningham age 44
14 years Executive Chef at Willowbend Country Club

******************************************************************************************************
I have trained at USA Kung Fu Academy for many years and am presently preparing for my black belt testing, just as I am preparing for my PhD qualifying examinations.  As a student of molecular engineering I find many similarities between science and Kung Fu.  Both are logic-based explorations of techniques that require intense practice, manipulation and insight to understand deeply.  I find that Kung Fu perfectly compliments my academy training for it also provides an artistic outlet, not to mention a physical one.  Therefore Kung Fu provides a multidimensional experience originating from its deep historical wealth that possesses self-defense, health and artistic aspects that can rarely be experienced in other disciplines.  However like any program, the training is only as good as its instructors.  Sifu Eric Cruz is from my experience a consummate practitioner and instructor, owing his expertise not only to decades of exposure to martial arts but to his vigilant practice and study.  Sifu Cruz enlightens his students in the ways of the art from his own personal experiences while seeking to further his understanding by constant training and tutelage.  This embodies a perfect example of both a teacher and a student that we all strive to be more like.  USA Kung Fu Academy provides everything that a school should be and more.  The training that I continue to receive is not only that of a martial art, but the physical, mental, and spiritual components that make up a lifestyle which I will pursue the rest of my life.

Sean Foss

PhD candidate in Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering University of Massachusetts North Dartmouth.

******************************************************************************************************
"I have been taking Tai Chi lessons from Sifu Eric Cruz for over 7 years and feel he is an excellent teacher.  My balance is so much better and my flexibility and general health and fitness have also improved.  I recommend his classes to everyone.  It's a happy place to be and I always feel good when I go there." 

Val Carrol,
Senior Tai Chi student
Age 78

******************************************************************************************************
"I have been a Tai Chi student of Eric Cruz for almost 7 years.  Twice a week I attend classes and have found my strengthening skills improved tremendously.  
Eric is a very honest and reliable instructor.  We have about a dozen seniors in our class.  Prices are very reasonable and we are not charged for missed classes .  "He is not out for the money".  In all the years Eric has taught our classes, he has been very professional.  I have the greatest respect for Eric as a teacher and all other aspects interacting with him.  I am a 70 year old senior and look forward to my classes every week." 

Claire Barret
Tai Chi student

**************************************************************************************

Ever since I started kung fu when I was in the first grade my life has been improved. Thanks to kung fu I can jump higher, run faster, and I now feel safe knowing I can defend myself. But it also enhanced my self-discipline, adaptivity, and leadership qualities. However, training does not just help me in kung fu,  it aids me in my life as a whole. Right now I sit on my school's student council executive board as the Public Relations Chair, I'm running for state student council webmaster, and I've been invited to the National Student Leadership Conference and the Congressional Student Leadership Conference. I owe all of this to the USA Kung Fu Academies.

Connor Gramazio
Black Sash

Connor made it into the Cape Cod Times Special pull out section of Rising Stars for his Academic Achievements

******************************************************************************************************