Our Head Instructor
Sifu Nathan "Mabalis" Marinone
Sifu Nate has been training in the martial arts since 1993, dedicating more than three decades to the study and teaching of a diverse range of disciplines. His journey began in Tae Kwon Do before expanding into Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do, the Filipino Martial Arts, the Indonesian Martial Arts, the Chinese Martial Arts and the Grappling Arts.
Drawing from decades of training and study, he has developed an approach that values both technical skill and a deeper understanding of the martial arts. As founder and head instructor of Phoenix Martial Arts of Connecticut, he works closely with students in a private training environment where personal attention and long-term development remain the priority.
Rank & Credentials
"My journey in the martial arts has been a path of continuous learning rather than a collection of titles. While I have been fortunate to study under remarkable teachers and earn various recognitions over the past three decades, these ranks are simply markers of the time and effort dedicated to the arts. They represent my commitment to preserving tradition while continuing my own growth as both a practitioner and an instructor". - Sifu Nathan Marinone
Staff Instructors
Over the years, Sifu Nathan Marinone has remained dedicated to the practice, study, and sharing of martial arts through teaching, continued training, and involvement within the broader martial arts community.
Guro Jeb Walton
Apprentice instructor
Guro Jeb Walton began his study of the Martial Arts in 2016 with Sifu Nathan Marinone. In 2024 he received his Black Sash in Filipino Kali and became an Apprentice Instructor in the Phoenix Martial Arts association. In addition to continuing his studies into the Filipino Martial Arts, Jeb also actively trains in Jeet Kune Do. He currently teaches private lessons in Suffield Connecticut.
Guro Masen Mccane
Assistant Instructor
Guro Masen Mccane began his study of the Martial Arts in 2020 with Sifu Nathan Marinone. Prior to that, Masen has studied Thai Boxing, Panglipur Silat and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In 2025, Masen received the rank of Lakan Guro in Serrada Eskrima and currently holds the rank of level 5 in the PMA Buka Jalan Silat program. He is an Assistant Instructor in the Phoenix Martial Arts association and also actively trains in JKD / Kali and Catch Wrestling. He currently teaches private lessons in Higganum Connecticut.
Mr. Travis Walles
Mr. Travis Walls began his study of the Martial Arts in 2020 with Sifu Nathan Marinone. Prior to that, Travis has studied Boxing and Karate. He currently holds the rank of level 5 in the PMA Kali program and is actively working towards becoming an Assistant Instructor in the Phoenix Martial Arts association.