Board of Directors

MA1st Board Of Directors

Kyoshi Fred DePalma

Founder DePalma's TEAM USA Martial Arts / MA1st, CEO

Kyoshi DePalma started teaching the martial arts for his instructor in 1981 and went on to open his own school under his instructor’s guidance in 1986. He had 4 schools in CT before selling them to the managers and heading out to AZ in 1991 to open schools there. In AZ he oversees 8 locations that are either owned by him or franchised to his students. Over his many years of being involved not with just his schools but the Martial Arts industry, Kyoshi has spoken for many of the leading Martial Art Companies such as EFC, MAIA, NAPMA, UP, MAUI and others. Currently Kyoshi spends his time running his schools and the MA1st Company where he gets to talk with and personally coach school owners worldwide. If you wish to speak with a Martial Artist who has had and still has successful schools and loves to share, then Kyoshi F. DePalma is the person you need to know.

Master Robin DePalma

Corporate Manager for DePalma's Team USA Martial Arts / MA1st, Board Of Directors

A 5th Degree Black Belt, Master Robin DePalma has been in the Martial Arts industry for 20 years and is currently the Corporate Manager or DePalma's Team USA Martial Arts. She currently oversees 6 DePalma's locations. She is in charge of the Manager Training, Marketing, Business Systems, Pro-Shops, event planning and statistics of each location. Her resume includes developing a Cardio Kickbox program of over 700 members, running one of DePalma's most profitable locations, co-founding the 26 month SWAT – Mentor Leadership Program, Developing successful business systems for the DePalma’s organization and reaching a $200-$400 student value at any location she has worked at. She contributes her success to her love of the students and families and her passion for making a positive impact in their lives.

Master Jeff Wilber

Founder and CEO Dojo's Family Martial Arts / MA1st, Board Of Directors

Master Wilber has been teaching the martial arts since 1992. He has received awards and recognition for his amazing teaching style. He continues to expand his own knowledge in the martial arts to better serve the students of Dojos. Recognized for his ability to relate to students of all ages Master Wilber is a great role model for young children, a mentor for young teens and a living example for adults.