Our Team

Our team welcomes you to American Drengr Krav Maga, where our mission is to provide exceptional self-defense training and character development for individuals of all ages and from all walks of life. We aim to inculcate our students with the skills, mindset, and knowledge needed for self-improvement, self-protection, and to contribute to building safer communities. We firmly believe in the transformative power of martial arts, which fosters self-discipline, resilience, and personal growth whether it be physical, emotional, intellectual, or social. Our programs are deeply rooted in traditional American principles of hard work, determination, and perseverance… aimed at shaping not just skilled Kravists, but well-rounded individuals.

Our vision is to make self-defense training accessible to everyone, regardless of personal challenges. We believe that everyone has the right to defend themselves, and deserves the opportunity to experience the benefits of our programs. We are committed to creating an environment where all individuals can thrive. Our programs are designed to empower students with self-respect, a strong spirit, and a healthy mind and body. We strive to be a community where every student feels valued and supported.

We understand that Krav Maga is more than just physical activity; it is a way to build character and instill lifelong values. Our expert instructors are dedicated to guiding each student on their journey, helping them develop the skills and mindset needed to succeed both on and off the mat. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, our programs are designed to meet you at your level and help you grow.

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Greg Mills

Founder and Chief Instructor – American Drengr Krav Maga

Greg Mills is one of our founders and the Chief Instructor of American Drengr Krav Maga and the creator of the American Drengr Defense System (ADDS)—a self-defense system rooted in real-world practicality, evolved through decades of martial arts training, professional security work, and direct experience with violence. Building on the principles of Krav Maga, and drawing influence from systems such as American Tang Soo Do, Jeet Kune Do, Muay Thai, Jujitsu, Sambo, and Silat, Greg has created a dynamic curriculum that emphasizes instinctive action, situational awareness, trauma care, and the ethical use of force.

Greg began his martial arts journey at the age of four, initially training in Shotokan Karate before transitioning to American Tang Soo Do under Grand Master Dennis Ichikawa, a student of Chuck Norris, in 1995. Despite early struggles with behavior and authority—including time spent in a youth correctional facility—Greg emerged with a new direction, graduating a year early with a 4.0 GPA and focusing on protecting others. He attributes this transformation and its continued journey to the discipline of martial arts and his faith in Christ.

After starting his teaching at T.O./Westlake Karate under Grand Master Ichikawa, Greg has always maintained a passion for teaching martial arts to children, serving as head instructor of Tang Soo Do University and Cutting Edge Karate and Krav Maga before moving from California to teach in Virginia. His teaching with children has been heavily influenced by graduating from the Dave Kovar Instructor College and by studying the work of Melody Johnson, from whom he has received certification in her Pediatric Ninja Specialist program and instructor certification in her Skillz Worldwide Child Development program.

Throughout his adult life, Greg has trained and taught extensively. He earned his 4th-degree black belt in American Tang Soo Do under Grand Master Dennis Ichikawa, became a regional sparring champion, and competed in full-contact MMA. He worked as a security professional at clubs in Los Angeles, including Borderline Bar and Grill, where he developed a reputation for effective de-escalation and restraint tactics. Twelve deaths from an active shooter event at Borderline led to Greg’s insistence on trauma care as a part of self-defense training.

After being introduced to Krav Maga by Master Mark Cox, Greg found his true calling in self-defense instruction that prioritized simplicity, aggression under stress, and practical survival over tradition. He holds Krav Maga black belt certifications from Premier Martial Arts (under Ken Brayman), Krav Maga Universal (under Ernie Kirk), and a 2nd Degree under the American Krav Maga Federation (under Mark Cox), and is currently earning additional ranking in Israeli Combat System at Masada Tactical (under BK Blankchtein.)

Greg’s teaching philosophy is grounded in “Protect What Matters”—a principle learned from BK Blankchtein. This mantra drives his integration of combative self-defense, de-escalation and trauma care into the ADDS curriculum, ensuring black belt candidates are equipped not only with combat and de-escalation skills but also life-preserving trauma response training.

He is a regular instructor at International Krav Camps and collaborates closely with organizations such as Masada Tactical, Krav Maga Universal, and the American Krav Maga Federation.

Greg holds a Level 5 Instructor certification, Edged Weapon Instructor certification, and Gun Defense Certification under the American Krav Maga Federation, Tactical Fitness HAVOC Coaching certification under Masada Tactical, and Instructor Certification under Krav Maga Universal, Instructor Certification in Israeli Combat System (under Guy Rafaeli,) as well as certification in Special Operations Krav Maga Combined Combat System and in Kalah Combat System under Kalah USA. He also serves as a Workplace Violence Prevention Instructor at hospitals for Masada Health. Greg personally certifies all instructors at American Drengr, ensuring quality of instruction at levels of both adult and child training.

Greg’s commitment to excellence, growth, and authenticity has earned him multiple honors, including:

  • Prince William County Martial Arts Instructor of the Year (2023 through 2025)
  • American Krav Maga Federation Vigilant Protector Award
  • Combatives Champion & Scott Wilcox Award Recipient at the Las Vegas Combatives Championship

In 2022, after parting ways with a corporate martial arts franchise that conflicted with his vision, Greg co-founded American Drengr Krav Maga in Virginia alongside a committed team of martial artists and students who wanted to provide the community with better self-defense training than was currently available in the area. The school now stands as a beacon of integrity, realism, and warrior ethos in the self-defense community.

Greg lives with his wife Charlynn, a certified instructor and integral part of the school’s operations. Together, they promote a life of strength, compassion, and purpose, anchored in their shared love for Christ and their mission to empower others.

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Jairo Rivas

Head Instructor

Jairo has over 11 years of experience in Krav Maga, including traveling to Israel to test for his 1st-degree black belt under Master Alain Cohen. He holds a 2nd degree Black Belt under American Drengr Krav Maga and currently holds a Level 4 Instructor Certification from the Krav Maga Federation of America (KMF-AC) and is also Instructor certified through the American Krav Maga Federation (AKMF), Krav Maga Universal, and SKILLZ Worldwide.

Jairo’s martial arts background extends beyond Krav Maga, he has several years of boxing experience and is actively training and advancing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

In addition to his martial arts credentials, Jairo is a Certified Personal Trainer and a Certified Strength & Conditioning Coach through the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA). He brings a deep understanding of athletic performance, injury prevention, and functional training to every session, helping clients and students reach their peak potential safely and effectively. He has twice been recognized as Prince William County’s Personal Trainer of the Year in countywide voting.

Jairo is also certified in Melody Johnson’s Skillz Worldwide Children’s Martial Arts Instructor Program and is a Pediatric Ninja Specialist, giving him unique expertise in youth development, age-specific teaching methods, and character-based martial arts instruction.

Known for his dynamic and empowering coaching style, Jairo specializes in
transforming youth into confident, resilient, and disciplined individuals, helping them sharpen their focus, develop grit, and build elite-level athleticism through real-world self-defense and performance training.

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Eric Reyes

Instructor

Eric has taught a variety of martial arts over a decade-plus years of experience. He holds a 2nd degree black belt under American Drengr Krav Maga and a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Alliance. He has instructor certification under American Drengr Krav Maga, Krav Maga Universal, and SKILLZ Worldwide.

His friendly teaching style makes learning fun and engaging for students of all ages. Eric’s passion for martial arts shines through in every class as he encourages everyone to try their best and celebrate their progress. He creates a positive atmosphere where students build confidence while developing valuable skills.

Eric consistently pursues his education in martial arts and academics. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in business and is striving to reach a doctorate in the healthcare field with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, graduating in 2026

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Christopher Charboneau

Instructor

Chris is a U.S. Army combat veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and former intelligence operations specialist with over 25 years of experience in high-risk environments. He has served in both frontline combat and strategic intelligence roles, including work with the Defense Intelligence Agency and NATO-aligned operations. His military background includes counter-narcotics missions, high-value target (HVT) operations, kinetic support, and operational planning in some of the most volatile regions in the world.

At American Drengr Krav Maga, Chris brings this unparalleled real-world experience directly to the mat. His instruction is not theoretical—it’s forged from years of firsthand knowledge about violence, situational awareness, and survival under pressure. His classes go beyond technique, emphasizing mindset, adaptability, and confidence in high-stress situations. Whether he’s working with adults seeking practical self-defense or kids just starting their journey, Chris instills a deep understanding of what it truly means to be prepared.

Chris is the primary Lil Warriors instructor at American Drengr Krav Maga and a certified Pediatric Ninja Specialist through SKILLZ Worldwide. As a father of four, he understands how to connect with kids on their level—creating a fun, disciplined, and engaging environment where they build not just physical skills, but character, confidence, and resilience. His dedication to every student is driven by his belief that self-defense is a life skill—and everyone deserves to feel strong, capable, and safe.

Our Founders

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Joseph Fontanella

Joe is one of the founders and owners of American Drengr Krav Maga and brings over four decades of leadership and management experience in the defense community to the leadership team. He is a retired U.S. Army Colonel with extensive combat engineering, topographic, and construction experience, having served in and supported national security actions and objectives across five continents, including combat in Southwest Asia. After retiring from the Army, he served a second career in the Senior Executive Service as a Department of Defense Laboratory Director. Now in his third career, he draws on his experience as a former faculty member at the United States Military Academy, serving as a geography professor, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses at Liberty University’s College of Arts and Sciences. He holds several bachelors and masters’ degrees, as well as a doctorate in educational leadership.

He began his Krav Maga journey in retirement, along with his wife Sharon. Training has helped him regain fitness, flexibility, and endurance, and provided him with real-world self-defense skills. Joe holds 2nd degree Black Belt rank in Krav Maga and instructor certification from American Drengr Krav Maga, Krav Maga Universal, and SKILLZ Worldwide. He also holds multiple instructor and range safety certifications from the National Rifle Association, which supports American Drengr’s firearms and weapons defense training.

As a father and grandfather living in an increasingly uncertain world, he sees the importance of knowing how to defend oneself and others as a foundational family leadership responsibility. In that vein, he and Sharon actively encourage adults of all ages to begin training, helping them shape their commitment to growth and discipline as they continue to challenge themselves physically and mentally.

Joe and Sharon take seriously the need to set an example for older students by demonstrating how exercise, fitness, and goal-setting can maintain vitality. Through their shared journey, they’ve come to view training in Krav Maga as a lifestyle that promotes longevity, mental clarity, and a sense of purpose, proving that with the right mindset, age doesn’t have to limit progress or enjoyment, or compromise the ability to defend one’s self.

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Sharon Fontanella

Sharon is one of the founders and owners of American Drengr Krav Maga; she is a retired Lieutenant Colonel in U.S. Army Intelligence, and a former Department of Defense Contractor serving the intelligence and security community, bringing decades of leadership and management experience to the team. She is a former faculty member at the United States Military Academy, and taught at Liberty University for 7 years as an Adjunct Instructor of Geography. She has twenty years of volunteering in youth activities including church youth group, Girl Scouts and Boy Scout Venture Crew, and coaching Field Hockey at the High School and Middle School level.

God and family are her delight and priority. Her five grandchildren shine especially bright along with her husband, Joe. She came to Krav Maga via a women’s self-defense seminar and was struck by how little she knew and how valuable it would be in her securing her personal safety and that of her loved ones. Now she is a strong advocate for self-defense training for women and girls, in particular.

Sharon holds Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees, and Black Belt rank in Krav Maga. She is instructor-certified through American Drengr, Krav Maga Universal, and SKILLZ Worldwide, as well as through the National Rifle Association’s “Refuse to be a Victim” program, designed to teach individuals how to avoid dangerous situations and criminal confrontations through awareness and safety strategies. She has completed the R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) System course, and is a certified Pediatric Ninja Specialist through SKILLZ Worldwide, as well as a graduate of the SKILLZ Bully Management course. Sharon is a proud graduate of Leadership Prince William, “Class of 2024 – We Do More” and represents American Drengr Krav Maga on the Prince William Chamber of Commerce.

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Robert Paiani

Bob is one of the founders and owners of American Drengr Krav Maga, bringing over 30 years of sales, management, and technology expertise to the team. His experience in the Information Technology industry ranges from working on a helpdesk to design and installation of large storage systems. The past 12 years, Bob has held various technical sales positions within corporate America. His Martial Arts journey started around 1994 when he was a student in a traditional Martial Arts studio that taught a combination Taekwondo and Karate. Within the past seven years , he enrolled in a Krav Maga studio and was learning critical skills on how to survive a street fight.

In addition to holding 2d Degree Black Belt rank in Krav Maga, he also holds black belts in both Taekwondo and Karate, and remains excited about continuing his journey. Bob is instructor-certified by American Drengr Krav Maga, Krav Maga Universal, and SKILLZ Worldwide. Bob is extremely active in the sport shooting community, actively supporting American Drengr’s firearms defense training. He holds multiple pistol, rifle and range safety credentials from a variety of associations, to include the U.S. Concealed Carry Association and the National Rifle Association.

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Sheryl Paiani

Sheryl is one of the founders and owners of American Drengr Krav Maga, bringing nearly two decades of work experience in the banking and finance industry to the team. Holding a degree in Applied Mathematics, she has training in accounting, and personal and business tax preparation. She has spent the last 15 years as a stay-at-home mom being on the customer/parent end of the martial arts curriculum.

Our Lineage and Grandmasters

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Mark Cox

Founder of American Krav Maga Federation & Mentor to Hundreds

Mark Cox is a master martial artist with over 40 years of experience in teaching, coaching, and developing elite-level students. He is the highest-ranked student of Grand Master Dennis Ichikawa, holding an 8th-degree black belt in American Tang Soo Do, along with black belts in Krav Maga and Hapkido. He also holds a brown belt under Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach Sergio Machado and a 5th-degree Krav Maga black belt under Israeli Master Danny Hazan.

Founder of America’s Best Martial Arts and the American Krav Maga Federation, Mr. Cox has promoted over 700 black belts in Tang Soo Do and over 60 in Krav Maga. His federation spans 11 schools nationwide and remains rooted in excellence and practical combat preparation.

A former police officer with the LAPD, Mark regularly trains law enforcement and military personnel in real-world application of Krav Maga. His blend of practical tactical training and deep martial arts discipline makes him one of the most respected instructors in the U.S.

Beyond technique, Mark is a motivational speaker, author (Beyond the Mat), and life mentor. His legacy includes not only the ranks he has awarded but the lives he has transformed. For Greg Mills, Chief Instructor of American Drengr, Mark has been a foundational figure—providing housing, guidance, and career direction during critical times, and helping launch Greg Mill’s first Krav Maga program in California. His philosophy of grit, humility, and servant leadership is woven deeply into the fabric of American Drengr.

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Dennis Ichikawa

Founder of American Tang Soo Do Alliance & Chief Instructor Thousand Oaks/Westlake Karate Studios

Mr. Ichikawa is the Chief Instructor and owner of Thousand Oaks/Westlake Karate Studios. He began his martial arts study in 1970 in the Chuck Norris system of Tang Soo Do. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Service from U.C.L.A. in 1969. In the early years, he trained under such martial arts greats as Chuck Norris and Pat Johnson.

In November of 1971, at the rank of 4th gup (level) green belt, he became manager and daytime instructor at the Norris studio in Sherman Oaks, California. After earning his first dan (degree) in November of 1973, he opened his own studio, the Tarzana Karate Studio, with partner, Harold Gross in 1974.

Mr. Ichikawa moved his residence to Thousand Oaks in 1981, and started a Tang Soo Do program at the Thousand Oaks Community Center under the Department of Parks and Recreation in June of 1983. By 1986, the program grew to over 170 students. The Thousand Oaks Karate Studio was opened in 1987.

Then, in 1987, Mr. Ichikawa created the “AMERICAN TANG SOO DO ALLIANCE” to join together all the studios of his Black Belt students as a formal organization. The Alliance currently consists of the Thousand Oaks, Acton, Eagle Rock, Chatsworth Karate, Statesboro Karate and The Way Studios. Many of his students have gone on to form their own studios throughout the state of California, and enjoy the close attention and leadership that Mr. Ichikawa provides to all his students, from first-time members all the way to black belt studio owners.

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Danny Hazan

Chief Instructor Authentic Israeli Krav Maga Academy

Mr. Hazan is a native of Israel, and started martial arts at the age of 10 with Shotokan Karate, Krav Maga, and Russian Wrestling. He currently holds 8 Blackbelts in different styles (2nd Degree BJJ, 2nd degree judo, 8th degree in karate, 8th degree in Krav Maga) and currently has an academy in Israel AIKMA.

Mr. Hazan served in Israeli Defense Forces special operations for three and a half years, with service during the Lebanon war. After completing his military service, he served as a Krav Maga instructor for special operations units. Currently, Mr. Hazan travels the world sharing his Krav Maga expertise.

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Ernie Kirk

Founder of Krav Maga Universal & U.S. Representative for Wingate Institute

Ernie Kirk is a globally respected self-defense expert and the official U.S. representative for the Wingate Institute in Israel—the birthplace of Krav Maga. He holds a 5th-degree black belt in Krav Maga, a 6th-degree in Taekwondo, and 5th-degree black belts in both Hapkido and Judo, along with additional ranks in Goju Kai and Combat Karate.

Recognized by the Wingate Institute with certifications as a Senior Instructor and in Military and Close Protection instruction, Ernie was the first American authorized to certify others using the official Wingate curriculum. His teaching pedigree includes featured instruction at international Krav Maga seminars and service as Director of the Krav Maga Worldwide Advisory Board.

Ernie served as the Lead Self-Protection Instructor at the USAF Air Advisor Academy (AFAAA), where he designed pre-deployment self-defense training for personnel serving globally in high-threat environments. His extensive knowledge in real-world combatives has shaped programs like the Flight Deck Denial training module used by elite military units.

Founder of Krav Maga Universal, Ernie leads one of the most collaborative and open-minded international training camps in the U.S., where students and instructors share ideas and hone their skills each year in Pennsylvania. His philosophy…“My way is a way, not the way”—has become a cornerstone of the American Drengr teaching mindset.

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Tzviel “BK” Blankchtein

Founder of Masada Tactical & Silver Savages

Tzviel “BK” Blankchtein is a former Israeli Defense Forces infantry reconnaissance team sergeant and an internationally recognized authority in tactical operations, personal protection, and trauma care. He is the founder of Masada Tactical, a premier high-risk security service provider, and Silver Savages, a leadership and productivity coaching program for warriors and entrepreneurs.

BK’s operational expertise spans counterterrorism, executive protection, tactical trauma care, edged weapons, and maritime security. After immigrating to the U.S. in 1999, BK continued to serve as an active reservist in Israel for over 17 years. He has returned to Israel multiple times in the recent years to serve in combat and provide training.

As a sworn police officer in Alabama and a certified instructor across over 13 states, BK has designed and led training for countless military units, law enforcement departments, Fortune 500 security teams, and government agencies. His Masada Health Care provides hospitals with security and workplace violence prevention, giving vital self-defense training to high-stress sectors.

His credentials include a 4th-degree black belt in Israeli Combat Systems, a bachelor’s in Counterterrorism from the University of Maryland, and a master’s in Security Management from American Military University. In 2025 he was awarded Israeli Martial Arts Master of the Year from the Federation of Israeli Martial Arts.

BK’s teaching is built on authenticity, intensity, and a devotion to preserving life. His motto, “Protect What Matters,” extends beyond self-preservation to include defending one’s family, community, and values. This mantra has become integral to American Drengr’s trauma care and protection philosophy.

His influence has shaped not only technical training at American Drengr but also the ethical and strategic mindset behind it. From firearms and combat to leadership and mental toughness, BK’s impact is both tactical and transformational.