Meet The Instructors
We teach because we love it. We love it because of the good it brings; i.e., improved fitness (mind and body), coordination, confidence, community, self-protection skills to manage aggression from strength, not fear.
Our process of discovery frees a person from a variety of self-limiting assumptions so new and grander visions become achievable. We live-out-loud, we are in the arena and we will never be counted amongst those timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat and we will not be left in the desert of despair, there to choke on the dust of our own regret. We are proud of what we do and teach.
Grand Master, 8th Dan
Rick Mirandette with his son, Jake.
Rick Mirandette
Rick Mirandette, founder and chief instructor of Mirandettes Martial Arts Center, started his martial arts training in 1976 at Western Michigan University after doing wrestling and Judo in high school. He trained and taught in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids continuously before taking over the Grand Rapids Tang Soo Do School in 1980. He opened Mirandette’s Martial Arts Center, in Kentwood MI, January 1st 1991 teaching traditional Tang Soo Do (Korean Karate – the same style of Chuck Norris) but also branched out getting a 2nd degree black belt in Aikido under the famous Fumio Toyoda in Chicago. He has also studied Iaido, Jujitsu, traditional martial arts weapons (bo, jo, tangfa, sai, knun-chuka) and modern weapons including advanced firearms training. All styles have something valuable to offer, says Mirandette. Our experience allows us to offer depth and variety.
Master Instructor, 4th Dan
Ross McCrory
Master Instructor Ross McCrory, an Artist, Graphic Designer, Husband and Father of 2, has been practicing Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do and Aikido for over 40 years. He has realized the many benefits martial arts have brought to his own life and those around him. Most of all he enjoys seeing martial arts practitioners grow in mind, body and spirit. He also loves golf.
Ryan VanderTill
A 4th degree black belt and dedicated trainer taking your growth in the martial arts seriously. Don’t miss an opportunity to experience his classes. Ask him questions and drill down into the nuances of all he has come to understand that will benefit you. He also loves fly fishing.
Ken Clark
Ken is a 4th degree black belt, and man of many talents and interests, one of which is flying (multi-craft rated pilot). He is also an accomplished competition water skier and coach. He brings his experienced coaching style to the martial arts. He is there nightly teaching our classes along with pursuing his own advanced training.
Instructor, 3rd Dan
Mark Boguszewski
Mark Boguszewski is a third-degree black belt. He began training in 1992 while in college but left to finish his degree. He came back to Mirandette’s in 2006 and achieved black belt in 2010. Mark enjoys helping new students get familiarized with the school and advanced students prepare for their black belt tests. Outside of the dojo you may find Mark woodworking or on the skeet or trap field shooting.
Mark's martial arts philosophy is to train traditionally, keeping it simple and practical, and to individualize techniques to the student to be useful to them.
"To teach is to learn twice."
Dejan Malcic
I’m Dejan Malcic and I’m a 3rd degree black belt. I’ve been doing martial arts for 10 years, as of 2023, and I really enjoy it. I enjoy it because it’s fun, and you learn how to protect yourself, and your friends/family. I enjoy teaching martial arts because I get to have fun, I learn something new and help out people in class.
Martial Arts made me a better person, and it’s going to be my lifetime activity. When I’m not at the dojo, I like playing soccer, and doing other sports with my friends.
Brad Solomon
3rd degree black belt (Sahm Dan). Certified Public Accountant and business advisor. Enjoys seeing the confidence and joy, that training in martial arts, brings to students, both, children and adults. His long career and vast experience powers his unique insight to lead and inspire students.
Instructor, 2nd Dan
Brian Dokter
Brian is a 2nd degree black belt instructor. He first came to the dojo with his grand kids and thought it looked like so much fun that he started training. He has not stopped yet. Brian continues to train and inspire many and has a can-do-it attitude.
Bao Phan
Twelve years ago, I used to get picked on in my neighborhood and at school, so my dad signed me up to Mirandette’s Martial Arts Center. I never genuinely enjoyed a hobby until master instructors showed me how beautiful the martial arts can be. Not only did I gain self-confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills, I found another way to express myself and share this journey with others. Mirandette’s Martial Art Center was my starting point to discovering who I can become, and how I can apply these lessons in my daily life. I highly recommend this powerful training.
Lia Grover
I am a 2nd degree back belt. I have been training at the Martial Arts Center for six years as of 2023. I joined karate because I want to get physically and mentally stronger. I love karate because no matter what rank you are, you will always continue to learn. I enjoy teaching others and sharing my knowledge and experience to help them progress. I look forward to meeting you and working with you. When not in the dojo, I love long bike rides and playing with my dog, Miles.
Instructor, 1st Dan
Caty Posthuma
I started training at Mirandette's Martial Arts at age 12. My older sibling had trained with Sensei Mirandette so my parents knew right where to bring me!
I was shy - Martial arts helped me build confidence, strength and friendships that will last a lifetime! I would recommend Mirandette's to anyone who is looking for a balance of traditional martial arts and modern and also practical self-defense.
Josh Oliver
I am a first-degree black belt. I joined Mirandette’s Martial Arts in 2015. I have come to appreciate the martial arts as an art and a means of self-discipline. Training has been a form of therapy and has allowed me to grow stronger as an individual. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a martial artist, for me, is helping others on their journey. Outside of martial arts I enjoy my family and hobbies including leather work and the great outdoors.
For anyone looking to improve their mental and physical health, I highly recommend martial arts. Sensei Mirandette and his staff are waiting for you. Regardless of your age or physical abilities there is a place for you here at our school. Welcome.
Last Modified: April 19, 2024