Meet Our Staff

Our staff has a strong commitment to serving the many constituents of our organization. But first and foremost, they focus their energies on those who take advantage of our programs and services.
All of our Staff’s Ranks are Nationally Certified by United State Judo Association (USJA). All Coaching Staff have a SafeSport and Heads Up (concussion) Certifications and a current Background Screening. We also have several Coaches that are Nationally Certified Coaches with USJA.

Coaching Staff

Gary Monto

Head Coach

• 70+ years Judo experience (started Judo in 1954)
• Retired Toledo Police Officer
• Kudan 9th Degree Black Belt in Judo
• Kudan 9th Degree Black Belt in Jujitsu
• USJA Master Certified Judo Rank Examiner (MCRE)
• USJA Master Jujitsu Rank Examiner
• USJA National Judo Coach
• USA Judo International Coach
• USJA Certified Kata Instructor and Judge
• 2004 USJA Coach of the Year
• Chairman of USJA Camps and Clinics
• Chairman of USJA Kata
• Chairman of ATJA (American Tradition Jujitsu Association) Promotion Board

Russ Burke

Assistant Head Coach

• 55+ years Judo experience (started Judo in 1970)
• Retired Toledo Police Officer (33 years of Service and 17 years as department Senior Self-Defense)
• Hachidan 8th Degree Black Belt in Judo
• Rokudan 7th Degree Black Belt in Jujitsu
• USJA Master Certified Rank Examiner (MCRE)
• USJA Master Jujitsu Rank Examiner
• USJA National Judo Coach
• USA Judo Continental Judo Coach
• USJA Certified Kata Instructor and Judge
• National Judo Champion (multiple years)

Julio Ramirez

Instructor

• Yodan 4th Degree Black Belt in Judo
• Shodan 1st Degree Black Belt in Jujitsu
• USJA Certified Kata Instructor and Judge

Mark Pauken

Instructor

• Nidan 2nd Degree Black Belt in Judo

Liv Donbrosky

Instructor
• Nidan 2nd Degree Black Belt in Judo
• Nidan 2nd Degree Black Belt in Jujitsu

Angela Dandino

Instructor
• Shodan 1st Degree Black Belt in Judo
• Shodan 1st Degree Black Belt in Jujitsu

Samantha Hirschfield

Instructor
• Shodan 1st Degree Black Belt in Judo

Trey Lampkin

Assistant Instructor

• Sankyu Brown Belt in Judo
• Paralympic

Luke Finger

Assistant Instructor
• Sankyu Brown Belt

Office Staff

Jody Reuter

Office Manager

• Sandan 3rd Degree Black Belt in Judo

James Adkins

IT/Computer
• Godan 5th Degree Black Belt in Judo
• Shodan 1st Degree Black Belt in Jujitsu
• USJA National Register Coach

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ's

What does your organization do?
The American Academy of Martial Arts is dedicated to empowering youth and families in the Toledo area by teaching the traditional Japanese martial arts of, Japanese jujitsu, and Olympic Judo. Our volunteer coaches (black belts) provide expert instruction focused not only on physical skills but also on building character, confidence, discipline, and respect. We strive to create a safe, inclusive environment where students grow as martial artists and as compassionate, resilient individuals.
Who teaches the classes?
Our classes are taught by highly trained, nationally recognized black belt instructors who volunteer their time and expertise to support the community. Their dedication ensures every student receives quality instruction rooted in traditional Japanese martial arts principles and practical self-defense skills. For additional information on our staff see our staff page.
How can I get involved?
We welcome students of all ages—from young children to adults. Our programs are designed to be inclusive and adaptable to different skill levels, fitness abilities, and goals.
Do I need prior martial arts experience to join?
No experience is necessary! Our instructors tailor lessons to beginners and experienced practitioners alike, focusing on personal growth and safety.
If I were to donate funds, how is my money used?
Donations to the American Academy of Martial Arts directly support our mission of empowering youth and families through traditional martial arts. Your contribution helps cover costs such as student scholarships, uniforms for children in need, safety equipment, facility improvements, tournament fees, and community outreach programs. Because we are a volunteer-run organization, every dollar goes toward creating a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment for our students—not salaries. Your generosity truly makes a lasting impact in the lives of the young people we serve.
What is your organization's privacy policy?
The American Academy of Martial Arts is committed to protecting the privacy and personal information of our students, families, volunteers, and supporters. We collect only the information necessary to provide safe, effective instruction and communication. We do not sell, share, or disclose personal information to third parties without consent, unless required by law. All data is stored securely, and access is limited to authorized staff and volunteers. If you have questions about how your information is handled or wish to update or remove your data, please contact us directly.
At the American Academy of Martial Arts, our mission is to empower the youth and families of the Toledo area through the discipled practice of Japanese Martial Arts – including Ju Jitsu, and Olympic Judo. We are dedicated to nurturing physical strength, mental focus, emotional resilience, and respect for self and others.

Our team of passionate volunteer coaches and staff generously give their time and expertise to support the development of children and families in our community. Though martial arts, they help students build confidence, discipline, humility, and a strong sense of personal responsibility.

We strive to create a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment where every student feels valued, inspired, and equipped to grow – not only as a martial artist but as kind, capable, and courageous individuals ready to face life’s challenges.