Alexey Petrov,
Head Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt
Alexey Petrov is a 5th degree black belt who has over 20 years of experience in the Martial Arts. Alexey became interested in the Martial Arts after moving to the United States from Moscow, Russia when he was 14 years old. Although Alexey holds a Computer Science degree and worked successfully as a software engineer in two of the top 4 accounting firms, his passion has always remained for Martial Arts. In October 2006, Alexey and his wife Rhonda, opened Westchase Impact Martial Arts located in Tampa, Florida. Alexey’s goal is to provide his students with the finest martial arts experience possible.
Inspiration
My wife, Rhonda. Without her love and support, none of this would be possible. Thank You Baby.
On Being A Warrior
Out of every one hundred men, ten shouldn't even be there,
Eighty are just targets,
Nine are the real fighters, and we are lucky to have them,
for they make the battle.
Ah, but the one,
One is a warrior,
And he will bring the others back.
--Heraclitus
Instructors
Mike Mast
Mr. Mast has been a friend, mentor, and instructor. I have to thank him for everything that I have achieved in my Martial Arts career.
John Burns
Mr. Burns is the one who introduced me to Martial Arts in a small Church club and gave me my very first teaching lessons.
Robert H. Hardin
Master Hardin, the best Marial Arts technician in the world, had a tremendous impact on my Martial Arts skills.
Mike Lee Kanarek
Mike Lee has a unique combination of real battle experience from the Israeli Special Forces, various martial arts experience, and the ability to teach, which makes him the best self-defense instructor you will ever find.
Hero
My father, Aleksander Petrov-Agatov. Being a Russian dissident, he spent most of his life in Siberian camps, but he never gave up and his spirit was not shattered. He was not afraid to stand up for what he believed in. He was a selfless public servant who committed his life for the greater good of his country. One of my goals in life is to live up to his image.
Education
B.S. Computer Information Systems, Lipscomb University, Nashville, TN
Notable Martial Arts Accomplishments
Team USA Sparring Gold Medalist Champion 2006
National Taekwondo Champion 2001
Martial Artist of the Year 1999
Full Contact Kickboxing Champion 1999
Instructor of the Year 1998
Certified Haganah Instructor
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Marc Lubowiecki,
Assistant Instructor
2nd Degree Black Belt
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Andreas Latourrette,
Assistant Instructor
1st Degree Recommended Black Belt
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Pat Verdugo,
Assistant Instructor
Sr. Red Belt
Patrick Verdugo graduated from Jesuit High School in 2007 and is currently enrolled at the University of South Florida as a biology major. He will apply to medical school upon completion of his undergraduate degree. He plans to become a doctor and specialize in anesthesiology, oncology or orthopedic surgery. Pat has extensive experience working with children, including those with disabilities. He was employed at the YMCA for over five years and worked primarily with special needs children. His interests and hobbies include martial arts, playing guitar in his blues band, and any board sports such as surfing and longboard skateboarding.
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Sara Shepherd,
Assistant Instructor
Red Belt
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Rhonda Petrov,
Director of Operations
Mrs. Petrov is the driving force behind Impact Martial Arts. Her hobbies include writing, reading, painting, traveling and spending time with her family. When she is not at the studio she spends time working her online business and taking care of her family.