USSD Dana Point
Proudly serving Orange County, California, for 28 years
Since its founding in 1968, United Studios of Self Defense has been established as the premier Martial Arts and self-defense organization throughout North America. Our unique system of Kempo-style Martial Arts is steeped in tradition and incorporates Shaolin Kung Fu, Japanese Karate, and take down/grappling arts of Jiujitsu.
The core of the USSD logo is the Bonsai tree, symbolizing wisdom, adaptability, strength, character, truth, and longevity - attributes we at USSD feel are the key characteristics to help our students lead happy, healthy, and successful lives.
Sensei
Mike Giannicchi
Owner and Chief Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt
Sensei Mike Giannicchi currently holds the rank of 4th degree Black Belt with over 30 years of experience training, and 26 years of experience teaching Martial Arts.
Raised in Orange County, California, Mike started training at the age of eight and began training with USSD under Sensei Todd Aimer at the Huntington Beach location at the age of 17, earning his 1st degree Black Belt in 1998. He currently resides in Huntington Beach with his wife and two children. In addition to Martial Arts, Sensei Mike is an avid skateboarder.
After teaching for several years all over Orange County, Sensei Mike took ownership of the United Studios of Self Defense Dana Point location in 2017.
His experience, attention to detail, positive energy, and patience draws students in from all over Orange County.
USSD Dana Point welcomes men, women, and children of all ages and professions to participate in private and group training programs.
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Like the well-nurtured Bonsai, the roots of the United Studios family run deep – built on a foundation of traditional values with a modern-day approach to self-defense and personal development.
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We look forward to seeing you in the dojo!
Our Team
Izzi Preziosi
Assistant Instructor
1st Degree Black Belt
Sensei Izzi has been training at USSD Dana Point under Sensei Mike since she was 12 years old, achieving her 1st degree Black Belt in 2022. Izzi's attention to detail and fun-yet-firm style of teaching is a huge hit with our younger students.
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Izzi is currently attending Irvine Valley College studying Anthropology.
Evan Heckler
Assistant Instructor
1st Degree Black Belt
Sensei Evan has been training under Sensei Mike for 10 years, earning his 1st degree Black Belt in 2023. While teaching our younger students, Evan's calm and patient demeanor helps them progress and become confident in themselves and their Martial Art abilities.
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Outside of the Dojo, Evan has achieved Eagle Scout status, the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America program, and is studying Marketing at Saddleback College.
