Shihan Tony Abatecola

Certified Master Instructor
Chief Instructor

ShihanTony@usakarateri.com

Shihan Tony started training in January of 1990 in the Arts of Shaolin Kempo/Karate/Jiu-Jitsu.  He earned his Black Belt under Thomas Sullivan (5th Dan) in June of 1995.  In July of 1997, he started training in the art of Kenpo under Hanshi Larry Sullivan (10th Dan) here at USA Karate.  He is a certified master instructor and tournament head judge.  He currently holds the following Black Belt Ranks: 6th Degree Black Belt in Sullivan's American Kenpo Karate, 4th Degree Black Belt in Nick Cerio's Kenpo Karate, and a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Shaolin Kempo/Karate/Jui-Jitsu.

He has been teaching his skills since 1995.  He has taught Karate Classes and Self-Defense Seminars at many different locations across Southeastern New England.  As a martial arts tournament judge and referee, he has strictly enforced the rules of fairness and good sportsmanship to all competitors.  As a martial arts instructor, he has gained a reputation as one who truly cares about the progress of every student.  His personal slogan is "Make a Difference." He has been the Chief Instructor at USA Karate, Pawtucket since February 2000 and was trusted by Hanshi Sullivan to continue the fine traditions of teaching excellence here at USA Karate.  He was named "Instructor of the Year" by the New England Karate Commission for 2001.  Under his guidance, USA Karate has been voted Best Karate School by the Annual Readers Choice Awards conducted by the Pawtucket Times 6 Years in a row and has received the "Mark of Excellence Award" from Century Martial Arts for 2011, 2012, and 2013.

Shihan Tony also served on Active Duty in the Rhode Island Army National Guard where he served as a Recruiter and Military Career Counselor for over 11 years.  He also served with the RI Army National Guard's Select Honor Guard as a Trainer and Operations Sergeant.  His military awards and decorations include the Army Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (multiple awards), Army Achievement Medal (multiple awards), the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Master Recruiting Badge, and the Career Counselor Badge.  He is currently serving part-time in the RI Army National Guard as the First Sergeant of the "Governor's Own", 88th Army Band, located in East Greenwich, RI. There he is in charge of all enlisted members of the unit.  

Shihan Tony also a Certified Master Resiliency Trainer for the US Army where he conducts training to soldiers on how to deal with and recover from hardship and adversity in a positive way.

Shihan Tony is married to Luisa (DeMello) Abatecola has 4 children and is member of the Sons of Italy in East Providence, RI.

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