About Us
Building Skill, Confidence, and Community Through Self Defense & Krav Maga.
About Us
Helping kids grow in confidence, focus, and character — in a safe, supportive environment.
Our Philosophy
At American Drengr Krav Maga, our philosophy is rooted in the belief that self-defense is a vehicle for personal transformation. Through structured training, mutual respect, and consistent discipline, we help students develop resilience, awareness, and confidence that extend far beyond the training floor. Every class is an opportunity to grow — not only in skill, but in mindset, control, and character — within a focused environment committed to preparedness and real-world effectiveness.
Raising the Bar for krav maga Training
✔ Structured Curriculum Built on Proven Krav Maga Principles
✔ Professional, Safe & Focused Training Environment
✔ Programs for Kids, Teens & Adults at Every Level
✔ Emphasis on Discipline, Awareness & Personal Growth
✔ Practical Self-Defense with Real-World Application
OUR TEAM
At American Drengr Krav Maga, our team is dedicated to delivering high-quality self-defense training while helping individuals build strong character and confidence. We work with students of all ages and backgrounds, equipping them with the skills, awareness, and mindset needed for personal growth, real-world protection, and positive impact within their communities. We believe martial arts is a powerful tool for transformation—developing discipline, resilience, and growth across physical, mental, emotional, and social areas of life. Our training is grounded in values like hard work, consistency, and perseverance, with the goal of shaping capable, well-rounded individuals—not just skilled practitioners.
Our vision is to make practical self-defense training available to anyone who’s ready to grow, regardless of their starting point or challenges. Everyone deserves the ability to protect themselves and experience the confidence that comes with it. We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where students feel encouraged, respected, and empowered. Through our programs, we help individuals build self-respect, mental strength, and a healthy, balanced lifestyle while being part of a community that genuinely supports their progress.
We recognize that Krav Maga goes beyond physical techniques—it’s a system for building character and reinforcing lifelong principles. Our instructors take pride in guiding each student with intention, helping them develop not only practical skills but also the mindset needed to handle challenges both inside and outside of training. Whether you’re just getting started or continuing your journey, our programs are structured to meet you where you are and push you forward with purpose.
Greg Mills
Founder and Chief Instructor – American Drengr Krav Maga
Greg Mills is a co-founder and the Chief Instructor of American Drengr Krav Maga, as well as the developer of the American Drengr Defense System (ADDS). This system is built on real-world application, shaped by decades of martial arts training, hands-on security experience, and direct exposure to violent situations. While rooted in Krav Maga, ADDS also draws from disciplines such as American Tang Soo Do, Jeet Kune Do, Muay Thai, Jujitsu, Sambo, and Silat. The result is a practical, adaptive approach that prioritizes instinctive response, awareness, trauma care, and responsible use of force.
Greg’s martial arts journey began at just four years old, starting in Shotokan Karate before transitioning to American Tang Soo Do under Grand Master Dennis Ichikawa in 1995. His early years were not without challenges, including struggles with discipline and time spent in a youth correctional facility. However, he redirected his path—graduating early with a 4.0 GPA and committing himself to protecting and serving others. He credits martial arts training and his faith in Christ as foundational to that transformation.
His teaching career began under Grand Master Ichikawa, where he quickly developed a strong passion for working with children. Over the years, Greg has served as head instructor for multiple schools, including Tang Soo Do University and Cutting Edge Karate and Krav Maga, before relocating from California to Virginia. His approach to youth instruction has been influenced by his training through the Dave Kovar Instructor College, along with certifications in Melody Johnson’s Pediatric Ninja Specialist program and Skillz Worldwide Child Development system.
As both a competitor and instructor, Greg has built an extensive background in martial arts. He earned his 4th-degree black belt in American Tang Soo Do, became a regional sparring champion, and competed in full-contact MMA. Outside the training environment, he worked in nightclub security across Los Angeles, including at Borderline Bar and Grill, where he developed a reputation for effective de-escalation and control under pressure. A tragic active shooter incident at that location, which resulted in multiple fatalities, reinforced his belief that trauma care must be an essential part of self-defense training.
Greg was later introduced to Krav Maga by Master Mark Cox, which aligned closely with his philosophy of practical, high-stress survival training. He holds multiple Krav Maga black belt certifications, including through Premier Martial Arts, Krav Maga Universal, and the American Krav Maga Federation, where he earned a 2nd Degree. He continues to expand his expertise through ongoing training in Israeli Combat Systems under Masada Tactical.
His core teaching philosophy centers on the principle “Protect What Matters,” a mindset he adopted from BK Blankchtein. This philosophy shapes the ADDS curriculum by combining combatives, de-escalation strategies, and trauma response training. Students—especially those advancing to higher ranks—are trained not only to defend themselves, but also to preserve life in high-risk situations.
Greg regularly teaches at international Krav Maga camps and works alongside respected organizations such as Masada Tactical, Krav Maga Universal, and the American Krav Maga Federation. His certifications include Level 5 Instructor, Edged Weapon Defense, and Gun Defense through the American Krav Maga Federation, Tactical Fitness HAVOC Coaching through Masada Tactical, and multiple instructor certifications across Krav Maga and Israeli Combat Systems. He is also certified in Special Operations Krav Maga, Kalah Combat System, and holds national certifications in R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense), including both Basic Personal Defense and Aggressor Simulation. In addition, he serves as a Workplace Violence Prevention Instructor within hospital systems through Masada Health.
At American Drengr, Greg personally oversees and certifies all instructors to ensure consistent, high-level training standards across both adult and youth programs. His dedication to quality, realism, and continuous growth has earned him multiple recognitions, including Prince William County Martial Arts Instructor of the Year (2023–2025), the American Krav Maga Federation Vigilant Protector Award, and honors at the Las Vegas Combatives Championship.
In 2022, Greg stepped away from a corporate martial arts organization that no longer aligned with his vision. He went on to co-found American Drengr Krav Maga in Virginia alongside a group of dedicated instructors and students who shared the goal of delivering more authentic, effective self-defense training. Today, the academy stands as a strong representation of integrity, realism, and a true warrior mindset within the self-defense community.
Greg lives with his wife, Charlynn, who is also a certified instructor and plays a key role in the school’s operations. Together, they promote a life centered on strength, compassion, and purpose—guided by their faith and their mission to help others become more capable, confident, and prepared.
Jairo Rivas
Head Instructor
Jairo brings more than a decade of experience in Krav Maga, including training in Israel where he tested for his 1st-degree black belt under Master Alain Cohen. He currently holds a 2nd-degree black belt with American Drengr Krav Maga and is certified as a Level 4 Instructor through the Krav Maga Federation of America (KMF-AC). In addition, he maintains instructor certifications with the American Krav Maga Federation, Krav Maga Universal, and SKILLZ Worldwide.
His background extends beyond Krav Maga, with several years of boxing experience and ongoing progression in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This well-rounded foundation allows him to bring a broader perspective to both striking and grappling within his training approach.
Outside of martial arts, Jairo is a Certified Personal Trainer and Strength & Conditioning Coach through the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA). He applies his knowledge of performance training, injury prevention, and functional movement to help students and clients improve safely while maximizing results. His work has earned him recognition as Prince William County’s Personal Trainer of the Year on two separate occasions through countywide voting.
Jairo is also certified in Melody Johnson’s SKILLZ Worldwide Children’s Martial Arts Instructor Program and holds a Pediatric Ninja Specialist certification. This gives him a strong edge in working with younger students, using age-appropriate methods that focus on both physical development and character building.
Known for his high-energy and motivating coaching style, Jairo focuses on helping students—especially youth—develop confidence, discipline, and resilience. His training blends real-world self-defense with athletic performance, guiding students to improve their focus, build mental toughness, and develop strong, capable bodies.
Eric Reyes
Instructor
Eric brings over a decade of experience teaching multiple martial arts disciplines. He holds a 2nd-degree black belt with American Drengr Krav Maga and a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Alliance. In addition, he is instructor-certified through American Drengr Krav Maga, Krav Maga Universal, and SKILLZ Worldwide.
Known for his approachable and engaging teaching style, Eric creates an environment where students of all ages can enjoy the learning process. His classes are designed to be both fun and purposeful, encouraging students to stay consistent, give their best effort, and take pride in their progress. He fosters a supportive atmosphere where confidence grows alongside skill development.
Eric is committed to continuous growth, both in martial arts and academics. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Business and is currently working toward a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, with plans to graduate in 2026.
Christopher Charboneau
Instructor
Chris is a U.S. Army combat veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and former intelligence operations specialist with more than 25 years of experience operating in high-risk environments. His background spans both direct combat and intelligence work, including roles connected to the Defense Intelligence Agency and NATO-supported operations. Throughout his service, he has been involved in counter-narcotics missions, high-value target operations, kinetic support, and strategic planning in some of the world’s most demanding regions.
At American Drengr Krav Maga, Chris brings that real-world experience straight into his instruction. His approach is rooted in what he has personally encountered—not theory, but practical application of awareness, decision-making, and survival under pressure. His classes focus on more than just techniques, helping students develop the mindset, adaptability, and confidence needed to handle high-stress situations. Whether teaching adults or beginners, he emphasizes what it truly means to be prepared.
Chris serves as the lead instructor for the Lil Warriors program and is a certified Pediatric Ninja Specialist through SKILLZ Worldwide. As a father of four, he has a natural ability to connect with younger students, creating a structured yet engaging environment where they can grow. His classes focus on building confidence, discipline, and resilience, while still keeping the experience enjoyable and age-appropriate.
Driven by a strong belief that self-defense is an essential life skill, Chris is committed to helping every student feel capable, confident, and secure—both on and off the mat.
Our Founders and Owners
Joseph Fontanella
Joe is a co-founder and owner of American Drengr Krav Maga, bringing more than 40 years of leadership and operational experience within the defense sector. A retired U.S. Army Colonel, his career includes extensive work in combat engineering, topography, and construction, supporting national security missions across five continents, including deployments in Southwest Asia. Following his military service, Joe continued his leadership journey in the Senior Executive Service as a Department of Defense Laboratory Director.
In addition to his military and executive roles, Joe has built a strong academic background. He previously served on the faculty at the United States Military Academy as a geography professor and has also taught both undergraduate and graduate courses at Liberty University’s College of Arts and Sciences. His academic achievements include multiple bachelor’s and master’s degrees, along with a doctorate in educational leadership.
Joe began training in Krav Maga during retirement alongside his wife, Sharon. What started as a personal pursuit quickly became a key part of his lifestyle, helping him improve his fitness, mobility, and overall endurance while gaining practical self-defense skills. He currently holds a 2nd-degree black belt in Krav Maga and maintains instructor certifications through American Drengr Krav Maga, Krav Maga Universal, and SKILLZ Worldwide. He is also nationally certified in R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense), including both Basic Personal Defense and Aggressor Simulation programs. Additionally, Joe holds multiple instructor-level and range safety certifications through the National Rifle Association, supporting firearms and weapons defense training within the academy.
As a father and grandfather, Joe believes that the ability to protect oneself and others is a core responsibility—especially in today’s world. Together with Sharon, he actively encourages adults of all ages to begin training, emphasizing the importance of discipline, consistency, and personal growth at every stage of life.
Joe and Sharon also lead by example, demonstrating how ongoing training, fitness, and goal-setting can support long-term health and vitality. Through their shared journey, they view Krav Maga not just as a skill set, but as a lifestyle that promotes strength, mental clarity, and purpose—proving that age is not a limitation when it comes to growth, capability, and self-defense.
Sharon Fontanella
Sharon is a co-founder and owner of American Drengr Krav Maga, bringing decades of leadership experience from both military and civilian roles. She is a retired Lieutenant Colonel in U.S. Army Intelligence and previously worked as a Department of Defense contractor supporting intelligence and security operations. In addition to her service background, Sharon has contributed to education as a former faculty member at the United States Military Academy and later as an Adjunct Geography Instructor at Liberty University for seven years.
Beyond her professional career, Sharon has spent over 20 years actively involved in youth development. Her experience includes volunteering with church youth groups, Girl Scouts, and Boy Scout Venture Crews, as well as coaching field hockey at both the middle school and high school levels. Her commitment to mentorship and leadership extends well beyond the classroom and into the community.
Faith and family are central to Sharon’s life. She treasures time with her husband, Joe, and their growing family, especially their five grandchildren. Her journey into Krav Maga began through a women’s self-defense seminar, where she realized both the importance of personal protection and how much more there was to learn. That experience sparked her passion for training and led her to become a strong advocate for self-defense education—particularly for women and young girls.
Sharon holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees and has earned her Black Belt in Krav Maga. She is instructor-certified through American Drengr Krav Maga, Krav Maga Universal, and SKILLZ Worldwide. She is also certified through the National Rifle Association’s “Refuse to Be a Victim” program, which focuses on situational awareness and strategies to avoid dangerous encounters. In addition, she is a nationally certified instructor in R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) Basic Personal Defense, a Pediatric Ninja Specialist through SKILLZ Worldwide, and a graduate of the SKILLZ Bully Management program.
Sharon is also actively involved in her local community. She is a graduate of Leadership Prince William (Class of 2024 – “We Do More”) and represents American Drengr Krav Maga within the Prince William Chamber of Commerce. Through both her professional and personal efforts, she continues to promote leadership, safety, and empowerment for individuals and families alike.
Robert Paiani
Bob is a co-founder and owner of American Drengr Krav Maga, bringing more than 30 years of experience in sales, management, and technology. His background in the Information Technology field spans everything from helpdesk support to the design and implementation of large-scale storage systems. Over the past decade, he has focused on technical sales roles within corporate environments, combining his technical expertise with business development.
Bob’s martial arts journey began in the mid-1990s, training in a traditional school that blended Taekwondo and Karate. Years later, he expanded into Krav Maga, where he focused on developing practical, real-world self-defense skills. Over the last several years, this training has become a central part of his continued growth and discipline.
He currently holds a 2nd-degree black belt in Krav Maga, along with black belts in both Taekwondo and Karate. Committed to ongoing learning, Bob continues to train and refine his skills. He is instructor-certified through American Drengr Krav Maga, Krav Maga Universal, and SKILLZ Worldwide.
Outside of martial arts, Bob is highly involved in the sport shooting community and plays an active role in supporting American Drengr’s firearms defense training programs. He holds multiple certifications in pistol, rifle, and range safety through respected organizations, including the U.S. Concealed Carry Association and the National Rifle Association.
sheryl Paiani
Sheryl is a co-founder and owner of American Drengr Krav Maga, contributing nearly 20 years of experience in banking and finance. With a background in Applied Mathematics, she has developed strong expertise in accounting as well as both personal and business tax preparation.
Over the past 15 years, Sheryl has focused on raising her family as a stay-at-home mom, giving her a unique perspective from the parent side of martial arts programs. This experience allows her to understand what families value most—structure, safety, communication, and meaningful development—helping shape a better experience for both students and parents within the academy.
Our Lineage and Grandmasters
Mark Cox
Founder of American Krav Maga
Federation & Mentor to Hundreds
Mark Cox is a highly respected martial artist with more than four decades of experience in teaching, coaching, and developing high-level practitioners. He is the top-ranked student of Grand Master Dennis Ichikawa, earning an 8th-degree black belt in American Tang Soo Do, along with black belts in both Krav Maga and Hapkido. His training also includes a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Sergio Machado and a 5th-degree black belt in Krav Maga under Israeli Master Danny Hazan.
As the founder of America’s Best Martial Arts and the American Krav Maga Federation, Mr. Cox has played a major role in shaping martial arts instruction across the country. He has promoted more than 700 black belts in Tang Soo Do and over 60 in Krav Maga, with his organization growing into a network of 11 schools nationwide. His programs are known for combining high standards with practical, real-world application.
With a background as a police officer for the Los Angeles Police Department, Mark brings real-world experience into his teaching. He regularly works with law enforcement and military personnel, focusing on the application of Krav Maga in high-pressure situations. His ability to blend tactical training with traditional martial arts principles has earned him a strong reputation across the industry.
Beyond his technical expertise, Mark is also a speaker, author of Beyond the Mat, and mentor to many. His influence extends far beyond the students he has trained, impacting countless individuals through his leadership and guidance. For Greg Mills, Chief Instructor of American Drengr, Mark has been a key mentor—offering support, direction, and opportunity during pivotal moments, including helping him establish his first Krav Maga program in California.
Mark’s philosophy—centered on discipline, humility, and service to others—continues to shape the culture and values of American Drengr Krav Maga today.
Danny Hazan
Chief Instructor Authentic Israeli Krav Maga Academy
Mr. Hazan is originally from Israel and began his martial arts training at the age of 10, studying Shotokan Karate, Krav Maga, and Russian Wrestling. Over the years, he has developed extensive expertise across multiple disciplines, earning black belts in several styles, including a 2nd-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a 2nd-degree black belt in Judo, and 8th-degree black belts in both Karate and Krav Maga. He currently leads his own academy in Israel, AIKMA.
He served for over three years in special operations within the Israeli Defense Forces, including active service during the Lebanon War. Following his military career, Mr. Hazan continued to serve by training special operations units in Krav Maga, bringing his combat experience directly into his instruction.
Today, Mr. Hazan travels internationally, teaching and sharing his knowledge of Krav Maga with students and instructors around the world, continuing to influence the global self-defense community through his experience and expertise.
ernie kirk
Founder of Krav Maga Universal & U.S. Representative for Wingate Institute
Ernie Kirk is an internationally recognized self-defense instructor and serves as the official U.S. representative for the Wingate Institute in Israel, widely known as the origin of Krav Maga. He holds a 5th-degree black belt in Krav Maga, a 6th-degree black belt in Taekwondo, and 5th-degree black belts in both Hapkido and Judo, along with additional experience in Goju Kai and Combat Karate.
Through his connection with the Wingate Institute, Ernie has earned recognition as a Senior Instructor and holds certifications in both Military and Close Protection training. He was the first American authorized to certify instructors using the official Wingate Krav Maga curriculum. His expertise has taken him around the world, where he has taught at international seminars and previously served as Director of the Krav Maga Worldwide Advisory Board.
Ernie also played a key role at the USAF Air Advisor Academy (AFAAA) as the Lead Self-Protection Instructor, where he developed pre-deployment training programs for personnel operating in high-risk environments worldwide. His real-world experience in combatives has contributed to specialized training systems, including the Flight Deck Denial program used by elite military units.
As the founder of Krav Maga Universal, Ernie leads one of the most collaborative and forward-thinking training camps in the United States. Each year, instructors and students come together in Pennsylvania to train, exchange ideas, and refine their skills. His philosophy—“My way is a way, not the way”—has become a guiding principle within the American Drengr approach to training and instruction.
Dennis Ichikawa
Founder of American Tang Soo Do Alliance & Chief Instructor Thousand Oaks/Westlake Karate Studios
Mr. Ichikawa was the Chief Instructor and owner of Thousand Oaks/Westlake Karate Studios. He began his martial arts journey in 1970, training in the Chuck Norris system of Tang Soo Do. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Service from UCLA in 1969. During his early years in martial arts, he had the opportunity to train under renowned figures such as Chuck Norris and Pat Johnson.
In November 1971, while holding the rank of 4th gup (green belt), he took on the role of manager and daytime instructor at the Norris studio in Sherman Oaks, California. After achieving his first-degree black belt in November 1973, he went on to open his own school—the Tarzana Karate Studio—in 1974, alongside his business partner, Harold Gross.
Mr. Ichikawa relocated to Thousand Oaks in 1981, where he launched a Tang Soo Do program through the local Department of Parks and Recreation at the Thousand Oaks Community Center in June 1983. The program quickly gained traction, growing to more than 170 students by 1986. This success led to the opening of the Thousand Oaks Karate Studio in 1987.
That same year, he established the American Tang Soo Do Alliance, an organization created to unite the schools led by his black belt students. The Alliance has since expanded to include multiple locations, such as Thousand Oaks, Acton, Eagle Rock, Chatsworth Karate, Statesboro Karate, and The Way Studios. Over the years, many of his students have gone on to open their own academies, continuing his legacy while maintaining a strong connection to his leadership and mentorship—from beginners all the way to experienced instructors and school owners.
Mr. Ichikawa passed away in November, 2025. It is powerful to see his influence echoed in so many schools run by the black belts he raised.
Tzviel “BK” Blankchtein
Founder of Masada Tactical & Silver Savages
Tzviel “BK” Blankchtein is a former infantry reconnaissance sergeant in the Israeli Defense Forces and a globally recognized expert in tactical operations, personal protection, and trauma response. He is the founder of Masada Tactical, a high-level security and training organization, as well as Silver Savages, a program focused on leadership and performance development for both warriors and entrepreneurs.
BK’s experience covers a wide range of real-world disciplines, including counterterrorism, executive protection, edged weapons, maritime security, and tactical medical care. After relocating to the United States in 1999, he remained actively connected to Israeli service, continuing as a reservist for over 17 years. In recent years, he has returned to Israel multiple times to participate in combat operations and provide specialized training.
In the U.S., BK has served as a sworn police officer in Alabama and is a certified instructor across more than a dozen states. He has developed and delivered training programs for military units, law enforcement agencies, Fortune 500 security teams, and government organizations. Through Masada Health Care, he also works closely with hospitals, providing workplace violence prevention and self-defense training tailored to high-risk environments.
His qualifications include a 4th-degree black belt in Israeli Combat Systems, a bachelor’s degree in Counterterrorism from the University of Maryland, and a master’s degree in Security Management from American Military University. In 2025, he was honored as Israeli Martial Arts Master of the Year by the Federation of Israeli Martial Arts.
BK’s approach to training is grounded in realism, intensity, and a strong commitment to preserving life. His guiding principle, “Protect What Matters,” goes beyond individual safety—emphasizing the responsibility to safeguard family, community, and core values. This philosophy plays a central role in American Drengr’s focus on protection and trauma care.
His influence extends beyond physical techniques, shaping both the strategic and ethical framework of training at American Drengr. From combat readiness and firearms to leadership and mental resilience, BK’s impact is both practical and deeply transformative.
Our Commitment To You
We’re committed to:
Putting safety first
Communicating clearly
Being fully transparent
Respecting your time and your decisions