Instructors
Mark Chevalier
Mark began his martial arts journey in 1979 while still in high school, studying Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan, a Korean martial art. During his university years he was introduced to Karate-Do and from there his interest in Japanese martial arts and culture grew. He graduated from Old Dominion University with a BA in History, specializing in Asian Studies.
His Japanese karate teacher believed in training the “old way” which involved great physical and mental effort as well as strength of character to endure. For Mark there was no looking back; seeking perfection of character, being faithful, endeavoring, respecting others and refraining from violent behavior were not just words, but a path to follow. Over time he would earn the rank of black belt in several different martial arts.
The training was tough, but life is tougher. Lessons learned along the martial way have been invaluable on life’s journey and Mark applied them; rising from Purchasing Manager at a Virginia based Furniture Manufacturing Company to becoming the President of its first manufacturing division, and Vice President of Sales for the parent company. Eventually he decided to become self-employed and started a printing company and later a tax preparation business. Perhaps one day he would have his own martial arts school.
In 1999, upon the retirement of his then current martial arts instructor, he became chief instructor and owner of his own school in Oxford, Mississippi. Soon, The Mississippi Center for Martial Arts came to life. For more than twenty five years Mark has passed on to his many students the lessons learned from dedicated martial arts training, manufacturing, and entrepreneurial experience.
Today, Mark works in the engineering department of a local power company and teaches Personal Protection Workshops and private martial arts lessons after his workday. He has developed his own brand of Personal Protection, which incorporates simple self-defense techniques along with safety at work, home, school, traveling, shopping, and disaster preparedness. He is also an American Red Cross Certified Instructor in CPR and First Aid. His aim is to pass along to as many people as possible the confidence and peace of mind gained through knowledge and personal action.
