About Us

Welcome to Family Martial Arts Center! Where Every Student Becomes Part of the Family

Thank you for taking the time to explore our exciting martial arts programs. At Family Martial Arts Center in Lakeland, FL, we’re honored to welcome your family into ours. From your very first visit, you’ll notice that our school is built on strong relationships, service, and a genuine passion for helping every student grow both on and off the mat.

We believe in offering high-quality martial arts instruction that’s accessible, affordable, and designed to meet the needs of our local Lakeland community. Whether you’re enrolling your child in our Little Ninjas program, trying an intro class, or pursuing your own black belt journey, you’ll find a welcoming space where you’re supported every step of the way.

Building Life Skills Through Martial Arts

Our mission goes beyond kicks and punches. We’re here to help students develop the core values of discipline, respect, confidence, and integrity. These are the same life virtues that have been at the heart of martial arts for generations. At Family Martial Arts Center, our instructors lead by example, creating a positive, encouraging environment where every student can thrive.

We believe that today’s kids need strong role models and a clear path toward personal growth, and that’s exactly what our staff is trained to provide.

Certified Instruction You Can Trust

We’re proud to be affiliated with the Victory Taekwondo Chung Do Kwan Association, which ensures that our students receive authentic, certified Taekwondo training. Our instructors hold credentials from Korea and the World Taekwondo Federation, and they continue to train regularly to bring the very best to your family.

When you choose Family Martial Arts Center, you're choosing a school with true martial arts lineage, a commitment to excellence, and a team that’s always improving.

It’s More Than a Name. It’s a Feeling!

When we first opened the school in 2005, one phrase came up again and again from parents and students:
“It feels like family here.”

That simple truth became the inspiration for our name and our mission. Every class, every conversation, every interaction is guided by our goal to make every student feel seen, supported, and valued.

As you tour our school or try a class, please feel free to ask questions. We have an open-door policy and truly welcome your feedback and ideas. This isn’t just a martial arts school, it’s a community, and we’re always working to make it better.

About our Staff

Grand Master Scott Wisneski & Master Elizabeth Wisneski

Scott and Elizabeth are the owners and managers of Family Martial Arts Center in Lakeland, FL. This husband/wife team started a mission in 2005 to operate a successful martial arts school that joins people together like "Family". Grandmaster Scott is a retired Police Officer from the Lakeland Police Department. He has also filled positions as a Field Training Officer, Dive Team Officer, and a member of the LPD S.W.A.T. Team. Mrs. Elizabeth works full time at FMAC to manage the everyday operations of the after school and summer camp programs. Mrs. Elizabeth has become a second "Mom" to many of our students. Both Scott and Elizabeth have three daughters and three grandsons. They spend time camping, boating, diving, and cruising to many ports of call. Besides Taewondo, they also breed exotic reptiles and own a reptile store.

Primary Black Belt Master Instructors:

Dee Valderrama – 6th Degree Master

Jennifer Canady – 5th Degree Master

Zach Scott - 5th Degree Master

Taylor Welch - 4th Degree

Rylie Walling - 4th Degree

Meet Our Elite Black Belt Instructor Team

Our instructor team is more than just skilled, they’re passionate, professional, and deeply committed to every student’s success. Together, this elite group of black belts brings over 75 years of combined martial arts experience to the mat.

Most of our instructors began their journey right here, under the direct mentorship of Grandmaster Scott, and have grown into exceptional leaders through years of hands-on training, personal development, and dedication to the art of Taekwondo.

Why Our Instructors Stand Out:

Personally trained and mentored by Eighth Degree Black Belt Grandmaster Scott
Many maintain international teaching certifications from Korea and the Victory Taekwondo Chung Do Kwan Association (VTCDKA)
Actively train and coach for belt testing, tournaments, demonstrations, and special events
Many are full-time martial arts professionals who dedicate every day to empowering students and strengthening our school community

Our black belts lead by example, modeling the same respect, discipline, and perseverance that we instill in our students. Whether you’re new to martial arts or working toward black belt, you’ll be guided by instructors who are not only qualified but truly invested in your growth.

Adult Instructors

Joyce Walling - 3rd Degree

Bambi Eggert - 3rd Degree

Cathy Litscher - 3rd Degree

Amber Thompson - 2nd Degree

Michelle Thompson - 2nd Degree

David Hamilton - 2nd Degree

Mathew Key - 2nd Degree

The Heart of Our School: Teen & Adult Assistant Instructors

At Family Martial Arts Center, we’re proud to be powered by a dedicated team of adult and teen assistant instructors who play a vital role in our school’s daily success from our after-school programs to our evening classes.

These passionate leaders ensure that every student receives individualized support, especially those who are new or preparing for belt tests, tournaments, or special events. Their presence allows us to maintain the high standard of instruction and attention that our families have come to expect.

What makes this team truly special is their heart for mentorship. It’s inspiring to see young teens stepping up as positive role models for the next generation showing that leadership, respect, and confidence can start at any age.

Dream of Becoming an Instructor?
If your goal is to not only train in martial arts but to one day teach, lead, and inspire others, then you’ve found your home with the Family. Here, we believe in nurturing that dream and helping students grow into future black belts, mentors, and leaders on the mat and in life.