Unified Martial Art students Alex Ritchey and Gene Ashly spar at the Coventy Street Arts Fair.  Photo credit Joel Dvorin.
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"I come to you with empty hands, I have not weapons, but should I be forced to defend myself, my principles or my honor, should it be a matter of life or death or right or wrong, then here are my weapons, karate, my empty hands."

These words appear on one of the many Hall of Fame plaques earned by Grandmaster Joel Dvorin, owner of Unified Martial Arts Academy on Lee Road in Cleveland Heights. 

Unified Martial Arts teaches a combination of tae kwon do, kempo, and judo, with students ranging in age from 5 to over 50. Grandmaster Dvorin has black belts in tae kwon do and kempo, an overall rank of 9th Dan Black Belt, and over 50 years experience in martial arts. The other main instructors are Melissa Dvorin, a 3rd Dan Black Belt with over 20 years in the arts, and Master Harvey Fierman, a 5th Dan Black Belt in judo with over 40 years experience.

The academy teaches all three different styles because each concentrates on a specific discipline. Tae kwon do is made up with 60-70 percent of leg and foot techniques; kempo is over 60 percent hand and arm techniques; and judo consists of throws, takedowns, chocks, locks, falling and rolls. Because these forms complement one another, the academy can teach self defense within a short period of time, even though it takes years to become a black belt.

Levels of knowledge are indicated by belt ranking, from white belt (beginner) to black belt. There are 10 colored belts and 10 black. Each are reached by showing knowledge of the basic techniques for that belt ranking.

Students can also learn how to use weapons such as the bow, sai, kama, and sword. The academy does not advocate fighting, but teaches students "streetwise martial arts" if a students find him- or herself in a dangerous situation. 

The biggest challenge in the martial arts for young people (ages 5-18) is that it takes dedication not only from the student but also from the parents who have to bring the students to class. Unified Martial Arts offers many classes outside regular business hours. An additional class, combat hapkido is offered at the academy by Master Steve Fine. Contact Master Fine at 216-374-7309 for information.

Unified Martial Arts Academy is located at 1651 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118.  Classes are scheduled Monday through Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. Call 216-256-4298 for more information.