Why a Devotional?
Chris and I have owned Ultimate Martial Arts for over 30 years. During those years we have walked alongside many students who sought a way to build themselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. It's the spiritual need we saw in many students that prompted the writing of this devotional. The goal is to help martial artist as they craft their art and provide a tool to help support them in their spiritual walk .
Our Story
Chris and I met in the gym at college. Both college athletes, we spent much of our college life in a gym and we joke that even today we are still hanging out in a gym! After I finished my teaching degree and Chris did a tour in the Gulf War, we married in 1992 and settled in to start our family. Chris and I have two grown children – a son, Jared and a daughter, Jenna, and two beautiful grandchildren. Family vacations are a must at our house and we love to travel to the beach, explore new places, and eat lots of Mexican food!
Melinda
I am an educator at heart. After teaching high school business for 22 years, I moved into administration and served as an assistant principal, career and technical education director, and virtual school administrator. I hold Master’s degrees in Business Education and School Leadership and a Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. My current position is Associate Professor of Business Administration and MBA Director at Tabor College. The beautiful thing about teaching at Tabor is the opportunity to integrate faith into my teaching.
You can learn more about my book and other information by connecting with me on these channels.
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Chris
​Chris followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, Guadalupe Llamas, who was his martial arts instructor from an early age. Learning the art of taekwondo in his grandfather’s garage, Chris continued his training and later opened his own school in 1994. After returning from his service in Desert Storm, Chris competed in the famed All Armed Forces World Class Athlete Program and Team USA for Taekwondo.
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Chris is passionate about teaching martial arts, helping other school owners develop, and impacting lives. He is a highly respected leader and innovator in the industry and uses his excellent communication skills to help both his students and business coaching clients aim higher than they ever thought possible.
Check out our school website to learn more about Chris and Ultimate Martial Arts or connect with Chris on social media.
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