Coalkickin' at its finest Martial arts, fitness center opens in Nesquehoning
By the decor on the windows some people may think that a Chinese restaurant just opened at 49 West Catawissa St. in Nesquehoning. But actually it is the home of Coalkickin' Martial Arts and Fitness, operated by Master Kevin Dillon of Lake Hauto.
Dillon has been teaching martial arts since the age of 16 for Shihan Jon Bonner at the USA Martial Arts in Tamaqua. He considers Bonner to be the best in the business and said he would be happy if he is half as successful as Bonner.
Dillon started taking karate lessons at the age of 7, while his mother Gloria Dillon was operating her dance studio on the same street in Tamaqua. Holding a fifth-degree black belt gives him the ability to not only excel in martial arts but also as a Title I teacher and disciplinarian at Panther Valley Elementary School.
A graduate of Penn State University, he holds a bachelor of science degree in education and has been an elementary school teacher for the past 10 years.
Brazilian Jujiitsu is taught by Scott Yasson. Karate classes taught by Master Dillon are held for ages 4 and up.
The family business includes body sculpting classes for women with aerobic kick boxing and light resistance training, instructed by his wife the former Mary Kocha. They are the parents of a 2 ½-year-old son, Connor.
He is a certified fitness instructor and conducts his own karate tournaments with competitors traveling to his tourneys from various states.
The master stresses discipline, respect, good manners and self confidence.
"I want the children who are in my classes to not only be good martial artists, but good people," said Dillon.
Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays, and also on Saturday mornings.
To register for a youth or adult class call (570) 778-4998. Enrollment is limited for all classes.
By CAROL ZICKLER zickler@ptd.net
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