Mr. Michael Leon is called "Sisuk Michael," or just "Sisuk" at the studio. In the 1970's he began his study of martial arts in San Francisco by learning the art of Keen Kwun, a southern style.

In the early 1980's, Mr. Leon studied the Northern Shaolin style under Grandmaster Wong Jack Man. He practiced very hard and diligently, and achieved a very high level of achievement. Mr. Leon specializes in practical applications with an emphasis on hand techniques for self-defense purposes. He works with the students, sometimes paddle in hand, to develop their sense of awareness in self-defense. Mr. Leon teaches the students to emphasize their own physical advantages and understand and minimize their disadvantages when it comes to practical self-defense. Mr. Leon takes a very realistic and rational viewpoint when it comes to self-defense.

Mr. Leon also helps the Jing Mo Athletic Association in many special events that the studio takes part in. He has done an extreme amount of work for community fundraisers such as "Self-Help for the Elderly" and large events such as the San Francisco Chinese New Year's Parade. He also takes a major hand in the lion dance/cultural aspects of our school and is our resident expert on these matters. Mr. Leon also enjoys starting the students off in lion dance movements, and he teaches students how to play the drum, the cymbals, and the gong. The students are always free to use him as a resource when discussing and learning the complete art of lion dance.

He also approaches lion dance as an adjunct to martial arts training. Practicing the lion dance will enhance a students martial abilities, and at the same time, allow the student to put their martial abilities to constructive use.

Sisuk Michael is also open to discussing any problems that the younger students may have, whether it be in life or the martial arts. He is always willing to spend time to talk with them and help and counsel them in any way necessary. He takes the title of "gung-fu uncle" very seriously. He believes in the structure and methodology of traditional martial arts schools.

For more information on Sisuk Michael Leon please read his accompanying interview.