Meet the Teachers
The instructors at Blackbird Martial Arts all have extensive experience in the martial arts. Students who achieve dan grade (black belt rank) have the opportunity for instructor certification programs where they receive an extensive education on the effective training of junior students.
Ben Couch
Nanadan, shihan
Ben began training in 1984 and has been studying ever since. He holds dan grades (black belt ranks) in several martial arts including karate, tae kwon do, aikido, and aikijujutsu. He holds the rank of nanadan (7th-degree black belt) and leads the Karasu Bujutsu Kyokai organization.
Brent Miller
Shodan, fukushidoin
Brent Miller received his shodan (1st-degree black belt) in Shinpi Karasu Ryu karate in 2026. He holds an Associate Instructor license (Fukushidoin) in the art. In addition, he holds a black belt rank in Tang Soo Do.
Androt Verdugo
Sandan, shidoin
Androt holds the rank of sandan (3rd-degree black belt) in Shinpi Karasu Ryu karate. He holds an instructor license (Shidoin) in Shinpi Karasu Ryu and has has trained in the art for over two decades. He also holds nidan rank in Shin Shin Ryu iaijutsu and an ikkyu in aikijujutsu.
Adler Verdugo
Shodan, fukushidoin
Adler Verdugo received his shodan (1st-degree black belt) in Shinpi Karasu Ryu karate in 2026. He holds an Associate Instructor license (Fukushidoin) in the art. He has trained in martial arts for over 20 years.
Alonzo Sanchez
Sandan, shidoin
Alonzo received his shodan (1st-degree black belt) in karate in 2021, his nidan (2nd-degree black belt) in 2023, and his sandan (3rd-degree black belt) in 2026. He holds an instructor license (Shidoin) in Shinpi Karasu Ryu and has has trained in the art for over two decades.