Chris Pacini, a fourth degree Master Instructor in Tang Soo Do, is the chief instructor of Pacini Martial Arts Academy located at Life Time Fitness in Gilbert, AZ.  His studio specializes in teaching traditional martial arts and practical self-defense and is a registered studio with the World Tang Soo Do Association (WTSDA).   Master Pacini believes in creating a “family friendly” atmosphere in his studio without losing the core values of Tang Soo Do.  He does this by working with the students and their families to teach belt appropriate techniques while being challenged to improve so they can advance within the belt system.  Every student is responsible for learning the philosophy behind Tang Soo Do which is built around character development and personal growth.  With 12 years of instructional experience, Mr. Pacini has mastered the art of challenging his students, whether they are children or adults, and teaching character development to all ages.

Mr. Pacini’s journey began in Anchorage, Alaska in 1994.  Two years later he moved to Phoenix, AZ and obtained his black belt under the late Master Thomas Caufield. As a black belt he has won two grand championships in forms, sparring and weapons as well as hosted and coordinated numerous black belt clinics and tests. Besides Tang Soo Do, Mr. Pacini is currently training in Split Second Survival (a practical self defense program) under creator Larry Wick and has trained in Hapkido and Jujitsu.  After the successful completion of his sam dan test, Mr. Pacini opened the doors of PMAA with the help of his instructor Master David Roberts in 2004. That same year Mr. Pacini was nominated for the instructor of the year at the WTSDA World Championships.  In 2009 Mr. Pacini was invited to the masters clinic where he begins his journey to masters rank. The path to masters rank will take several years and many hours of study.     Mr. Pacini has a wife Shara, a 1st degree black belt, a 13 year old daughter Brynn, also a black belt, and a three year old daughter named Aspynn.

Karl Shawcroft – E Dan Instructor

Mr. Shawcroft was one of Master Pacini’s original students.   Mr. Shawcroft became a certified black belt in 2009 and in May of 2011 was promoted to 2^nd degree black belt.  He is a board certified instructor and international corner judge.  Mr. Shawcroft assists in instructing our youth and adult classes as well as being the director of our Tiny Tiger martial arts program.   Mr. Shawcroft is deeply involved with the activities of Pacini Martial Arts and  the World Tang Soo Do Association, where he acts as the regional treasurer.  He has competed and placed at several regional tournaments and is a certified Ki Gong Instructor.