Welcome
kick. breathe. smile.
Martial arts help develop every practitioner’s self-defense, self-esteem, discipline, and instills respect for others. The result of martial arts training is natural, effortless action, and the confidence, humility, openness and peace only possible through perfect unity of mind and body.
Martial arts is not only about physically training the body, but it is also about training the mind and spirit. There is a joy in training together, supporting each other, that bolsters the ability of each individual student.
You simply could not ask for better teachers!
WORLD CLASS INSTRUCTORS & Staff
Master Yu
Head Taekwondo Instructor
Master Yu brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our martial arts studio. With a background as a close combat specialist in the Republic of Korea Special Forces, he has honed his skills and discipline at the highest level. Having served as the Business Manager and Head Master at four Taekwondo schools, Master Yu has over 10 years of teaching experience. His mission is to inspire children to discover their passion for Taekwondo through encouragement, self-discipline, and personal growth. Under his guidance, our young members experience the thrill of breaking their first board, building self-confidence and joy with every accomplishment. Master Yu is dedicated to nurturing their progress, providing unwavering support and coaching as they advance to higher levels of mastery. We are proud to have Master Yu leading our team, where he continues to empower the next generation of martial artists.
Instructor Skye
Taekwondo Instructor
Skye Stauffer is a certified instructor and 4th degree black belt in taekwondo. She is inspired by teaching students to hone their martial arts skills while building character traits such as integrity, loyalty, and strength. She holds second place in the world for her Xtreme Martial Arts weapons routine along with numerous State and District titles. Graduating from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, Skye is also a working actress/singer/dancer. Skye earned her Girl Scout Gold Award by combining these areas of her life and developing a women’s self-defense and dating violence awareness curriculum designed to bring awareness and empowerment to the dating environment.
Miss Alex
Music & Pre-Ballet Teacher
Social Media Manager
Alex is a vibrant NYC-based performer with a deep passion for arts education. With a BFA in Musical Theatre, she has explored a variety of music, acting, and dance styles, enriching her teaching approach. At MAFS, Alex is dedicated to spreading joy through music and movement. She has years of experience inspiring and entertaining children as a nanny, dance teacher, and theatre performer. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and she loves sharing her appreciation for the arts with babies, children, and even adults! Join Alex in our Pre-Ballet and Baby Music classes, where she creates a nurturing and joyful environment that encourages creativity and self-expression. She looks forward to inspiring the next generation of artists and helping them discover the magic of music and dance!
Instructor Jose
Taekwondo Instructor
Instructor Jose has dedicated his life to the study and practice of martial arts, bringing passion, discipline, and enthusiasm to every class he teaches. He finds the greatest reward in helping students achieve their goals, overcome obstacles, and grow into the best version of themselves—both on and off the mat. Jose teaches classes for students of all ages, including private lessons and adult kickboxing programs. Whether he’s introducing a beginner to their first kick or helping an experienced student refine advanced techniques, he creates a positive and motivating environment where everyone can succeed. No matter a student’s age or skill level, Instructor Jose strikes the perfect balance between challenge and compassion. He encourages each student to push beyond their limits while building confidence, respect, perseverance, and a strong work ethic. His dedication to every student’s success makes him not only an exceptional instructor but also a positive role model within the martial arts community.
Instructor Davis
Taekwondo Instructor
Instructor Davis is a dedicated Taekwondo instructor and a 3rd Degree Black Belt certified by the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF). With extensive competition experience, he has earned numerous accolades, including 1st Place in Poomsae at the 2018 Governors Cup, 2nd Place in Sparring at the 2017 Governors Cup, 2nd Place in Board Breaking at the 2019 Governors Cup, and 2nd Place in Sparring at the 2019 Hong Ik Tournament. Instructor Davis is passionate about sharing his knowledge and helping students build confidence, discipline, and strong Taekwondo fundamentals while encouraging them to achieve their personal best both on and off the mat.
Miss Hannah
MAFS Manager
Hannah Taylor is a NYC based actor, singer, and musician with a passion for working with children and supporting early childhood development. With more than a decade of experience, she has led music classes, designed camp programming, and brought energy and creativity to countless family parties and events. As Studio Manager at MAFS, Hannah blends her love for community, organization, and creativity to help keep the studio running smoothly while supporting families and students. Outside the studio, she continues to perform across the country, from acting in national touring productions to playing her original music at vibrant NYC music venues. Hannah is proud to be part of the MAFS community and is passionate about helping create a warm, welcoming space where families feel supported and students are encouraged to grow in confidence, strength, and joy.
Sandra Herrera Sanchez
Our Founder
Our founder, Sandra Herrera Sanchez, is a mother of two young martial artists-in-training and also trains in kickboxing herself.
After three years of trying to organize martial arts classes for her children, her husband, and herself across multiple studios and programs, Sandra decided that there needed to be a centralized solution to offer martial arts and fitness to busy NYC families. After speaking with her son’s favorite instructors and other martial arts mothers, Martial Arts Family Studio was born.
Using her wide experience designing and leading community projects with children and teens with nonprofits both in Spain and USA, her background in Corporate Human Resources and years of kickboxing training, Sandra worked with other mothers to design a martial arts studio to address the needs of the family as a whole. Martial Arts Family Studio seeks to offer a wellness solution with an emphasis on martial arts training and fitness to improve not only the body, but the mind and the spirit as well.
Sandra was recognized in Marquis Who’s Who for her impeccable leadership at MAFS. Click here to read more!
