Our Team
At Pugh Self-Protection & Combatives, our team is built on decades of real-world experience, diverse training backgrounds, and a shared commitment to enhancing personal safety through superior instruction. Each member brings unique expertise and perspective, ensuring our clients receive the highest quality training and support.
Zachary R. Pugh
President & Chief Instructor
Zachary R. Pugh is the driving force behind Pugh Self-Protection & Combatives, where he leads with a mission to enhance personal safety through superior training. His journey began in 2002 as a student of Brooks Karate School in West Winfield, NY, where he earned his 1st Degree Black Belt in American Goju Karate. Over time, Zachary transitioned his focus to the self-protection component of the martial arts, studying extensively under Tony Torres with the Functional Edge System.
Ryan Mattes
Director of Business Development & Retail Operations/Lead Instructor
Ryan Mattes serves as the Director of Business Development & Retail Operations for Pugh Self-Protection & Combatives, where he combines a deep passion for personal safety with years of hands-on training experience. He began his journey with the company as a college student, working part-time as a Retail Operations Specialist and serving as a role player during active shooter response trainings. After graduation, Ryan quickly transitioned into a full-time role, assuming leadership responsibilities at the company level.
Jordan Peiser
Lead Instructor
Jordan Peiser began his journey with Pugh Self-Protection & Combatives as a college student, working part-time as a role player during active shooter response trainings. After graduation, he pursued his passion for education, becoming an elementary school teacher specializing in Special Education.
Mitchell Christman
Lead Instructor
Mitchell Christman’s journey into personal protection began during college, when he enrolled in a Self-Protection course offered by Pugh Self-Protection & Combatives and taught by Zachary Pugh. That experience ignited his passion for safety and helping others, ultimately leading him into a career in law enforcement. Mitchell served as a police officer for numerous years before transitioning into the private sector, where he continues to apply his expertise in risk management.
Larry Brooks III
Lead Instructor
Larry Brooks III is a lifelong martial artist and respected instructor with over 50 years of experience studying and teaching martial arts. He is the founder and head instructor of Brooks Karate School in West Winfield, NY, the very place where Zachary Pugh began his self-protection journey as a student in 2002.
Note on Our Team
While the instructors above represent our core leadership group, our full team extends far beyond those listed here. It includes additional instructors as well as the unsung heroes of our programs—our role players. Every member of our team is thoroughly vetted and trained to ensure each participant receives a safe, supportive, and impactful training experience. Together, they are vital to carrying out our mission of enhancing personal safety through superior training.
