Excel Martial Arts

The Learning Center for Martial Arts has been in business for nearly 25 years. In the late 70's Steve Schatvet, Steve Giampa, and Vinnie Guerrini, after many years of studying Shotokan Karate in Sharon under Don Murnane and his son Brian, broke away and began teaching in backyards, at schools, and at campgrounds. Along with many of his loyal studen... ts, Steve Schatvet opened the first Learning Center for Martial Arts school. At a time where it was rare to see a martial arts 'business', the school simply was a group of students collecting wherever and whenever they could. These main areas were the Norwood Civic Center, the Norwood Congregational Church, Norfolk Southwood Hospital, Canton's Kennedy Elementary, and Mansfield's Robinson Elementary. As time went on Steve Schatvet along with many of his top students Vinnie Guerrini, Mike Hebert, Marshall Wolff, and Paul Curtin began studying under Professor Nick Cerio of Nick Cerio's Kenpo. The Learning Center, although still in various locations, was now centered in Norwood's First Congregational Church and in Mansfield's American Legion Hall. By the mid-80's the school had well over 300 students and a staff that was second to none. By 1990, Steve Schatvet had separated from Professor Cerio and was looking to expand on the training. He began seeking out professionals in their art, to bring new ideas into the school. These individuals included: Sensei Kenny Wagner (Boxing/ Kickboxing) Sensei John Cabrall (Jui Jitsu/ Judo) Prof. Thomas Sotis (Analytical Combat) Master Bob McKittrick (Isshin-Ryu) Peter DeBlaiso (Tai Chi Chu'an) Through the 1990's student Cody Robyn began training as an assistant instructor and later as full time instructor at the Norwood Learning Center, currently located at 1044 Washington Street. By 1995, Cody began intense training for his Black Belt. Around the same time, John Hagman, a former student of the Murnanes and Steve Schatvet, returned and began training for his 2nd degree Black Belt. In April of 1996, both tested and received their rank ...Read More