Martial arts classes in peabody - Instructors

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Senpai Bob Comito has been practicing Uechi-Ryu Karate since 2011 and currently holds the rank of 3rd degree black belt. He brings a strong emphasis on fundamentals to both his teaching and personal practice, and finds the most joy in sparring sessions, where precision and timing come to life.

An all-around athlete growing up, Bob played baseball, basketball, and football, and has coached baseball, basketball, and soccer at the high school level for many years. His love for coaching and mentorship carries through in both his martial arts and professional life.

Outside the dojo, Bob is a licensed social worker specializing in adolescent care. He has worked in child protection for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for over 30 years.

Bob and his wife, Stacey, are preparing to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary. They have one son, Josh, who also trained in karate for many years. In his free time, Bob enjoys golf, pickleball, and gardening. When he retires, he dreams of opening a cozy Soup Shack—a place to nourish both body and soul.

Senpai Nolan Maher (“Mr. Nolan”)
I first stepped into the dojo at six years old, seeking a new pastime. What I found was far more than an after-school activity—karate quickly became a way of life. Now, 15 years later and a third-degree black belt, I look back on this journey with deep pride and gratitude. Nearly three-quarters of my life have been shaped by this art, this community, and the enduring guidance of Sensei Quimby and the adult students I look up to. I would not trade that time for anything. 

As an instructor, my teaching philosophy centers on discipline and confidence. I want students to leave class not just with stronger technique, but with a belief in themselves—that with focused effort and control over mind and body, they can accomplish anything. Karate gave me the voice I once lacked, and now I teach so others might find theirs too.

What I love most is watching students—especially the younger ones—begin to recognize their own potential. Every child who walks through our doors holds something unique, and helping them unlock it is the most rewarding part of what we do. I remain a devoted student myself because I still love training. The pursuit of perfection, the clarity of kata, the camaraderie among peers—it’s a form of mastery that keeps me grounded and inspired.

Outside the dojo, I study architecture at Wentworth Institute in Boston, drawn to its rich blend of creativity and technical precision. I’m passionate about making things—whether it’s through drawing, painting, model building, or martial arts. Karate, too, is a creative act: a way to shape something meaningful with the body, forged over time through discipline and intention. 

Our dojo is more than a training hall—it’s a family. We grow together, laugh together, and support one another. I’m proud to be part of a culture that values excellence, community, and heart. To anyone thinking of joining: I can’t wait to see what you’ll create here.

“Don’t let circumstances control you. You change the circumstances.”
– Jackie Chan

Senpai Bryan Muse began his journey in Uechi-Ryu Karate in 2013 at AKTC—but his introduction to the dojo came even earlier. While watching his young son train, Bryan’s curiosity grew until, nearly two years later, he took the plunge and joined himself. From day one, he dove in with dedication, attending as many classes as possible to make up for lost time.

Now a Sandan (third-degree black belt), Bryan has spent years supporting both children’s and adult classes. More recently, he has taken on the responsibility of leading adult classes, bringing his own thoughtful lesson plans inspired by years of training. He has participated in numerous AKTC tournaments—both as a competitor and a kata judge—and continues to deepen his study through regional seminars and Kobudo training.

Outside the dojo, Mr. Muse is a licensed Master Electrician and works for a local college. When he's not practicing karate, he enjoys golf and just about anything that gets him outdoors.

Senapi Louis Rivers earned his degree in computer science from the University of Massachusetts in 1986. Over the course of a 35-year career, he led numerous successful technology initiatives in the mutual fund and private investment sectors. Now retired, he enjoys spending his time exploring a variety of personal interests and hobbies.

A dedicated and accomplished rugby player and coach, Mr. Rivers played 11 years of Division 1 rugby with the Charles River Men’s Rugby Club. He was honored to serve as team captain and was selected to play for the prestigious East Coast Select Team. Following his playing career, he coached the Boston Women’s Rugby Team for six seasons, guiding them to three top-five national finishes.

Mr. Rivers has practiced Uechi-Ryu Karate for over two decades, beginning his training under Master Ed Huff. Under Master Huff’s guidance, he earned the rank of fifth-degree black belt (Godan) and served as an assistant instructor while coordinating dojo events and activities. Since 2017, he has continued his martial arts journey under Master Chip Quimby and was honored to test for his sixth-degree black belt (Rokudan) in May 2024.