About Master Joseph Mertz

Master Joseph Mertz began his martial arts journey in August 2006 at the age of 39. Defying expectations, he earned his first black belt in Taekwon-Do just three years later, on October 18, 2009. Since then, his passion has only grown, leading to advanced training, instructional roles, and leadership across multiple martial arts disciplines.

Black Belt Ranks Held:

• 5th Dan, Kido Kwan (ITF Taekwon-Do) – Certified #5-70-3103

• 5th Dan, Chung Do Kwan (WTF Taekwondo) – Certified #5-5514

• 1st Dan, Moo Duk Kwan (International Tang Soo Do) – Certified #18174-190

In 2014, Master Mertz earned his black belt in Tang Soo Do through the Global Korean Martial Arts Federation. He achieved his 4th Dan in Taekwon-Do in May 2017 and 5th Dan in 2020. Appointed Chief Instructor of Cherry Hill Martial Arts in January 2016, he later founded Cherry Hill Academy of Martial Arts in May 2025, where he continues to teach, mentor, and inspire.

Recognitions and Affiliations

Master Mertz’s excellence has been recognized by numerous organizations:

• Acton Martial Arts Hall of Fame – Excellence in Teaching (2016), Esteemed Modern Warrior (2018)

• USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame – Most Inspirational Black Belt (2015), Instructor of the Year (2016 & 2017), Master of the Year (2018)

• Legends of the Martial Arts Hall of Fame – Instructor of the Year (2015 & 2016)

• California Legends Hall of Fame – Master of the Year (2017)

• Philadelphia Historic Martial Arts Society Hall of Honors – Inducted (2018)

• Who’s Who in the Martial Arts – Honoree (2018)

He is also actively involved in promoting unity and excellence within the martial arts community through leadership roles, including:

• Alliance – A Unity Within All Martial Arts – New Jersey State Director

• Universal Song Do Kwon Alliance – Member

• Global Korean Martial Arts Federation – Member

• New Jersey State Tournament Director – Since 2016

• International Council of Grandmasters – Inducted in 2018

A Living Legacy

Master Mertz’s story has been featured in Tae Kwon Do Times and Life Skills for Kids: A Book of Inspirational Stories from the Martial Arts. His journey is a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of martial arts, inspiring students of all ages to believe in themselves and pursue excellence.

With decades of experience and a deep commitment to both tradition and innovation, Master Mertz leads CHAMA with heart, skill, and an unwavering belief that anyone can achieve greatness through martial arts.

Pil Sung.

Master Ryan DuBosar
Master Instructor | 4th Dan Black Belt
Discipline: Taekwondo
Experience: 12 Years Martial Arts | Master Rank Achieved in 2024

Master Instructor Ryan DuBosar began his martial arts journey in 2013 and earned his black belt in 2016. After more than a decade of dedication and growth, he achieved the rank of Master Instructor in 2024 under the guidance of Master Joseph E. Mertz.

Ryan is passionate about helping students build confidence through traditional Taekwondo training. He believes martial arts offers more than just physical skill—it shapes the mind, body, and spirit, helping students become their best selves both on and off the mat.

“May you be proud of the work you do, the person you are, and the difference you make.”

Harrison Ellis-Williams
Instructor | 1st Dan Black Belt
Disciplines: Taekwondo & Muay Thai
Experience: 7 Years Martial Arts | 2 Years Teaching

Harrison Ellis-Williams began his martial arts journey at the age of five, training alongside his sister, aunt, and two cousins—an experience sparked by their shared love for the 3 Ninjas movie series. Although their mother originally hoped they would pursue Kung Fu, they found their path in Taekwondo, which became a family tradition.

Today, Harrison holds a 1st Dan Black Belt and actively practices both Taekwondo and Muay Thai. As an instructor with two years of teaching experience, his passion for martial arts extends beyond the physical—it’s a personal sanctuary. “As soon as I walk into class, everything else fades away. Training lets me focus completely on something I love, and every class is a chance to grow.”

When it comes to teaching, Harrison finds joy in watching his students evolve. “There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone push through their lowest moments and achieve something they didn’t think was possible. Watching that transformation is what keeps me teaching.”

Harrison comes from a proud martial arts lineage—there are five black belts in his family, including his sister, aunt, and two cousins. They all tested and earned their ranks together, graduating in the same class under Master Mertz. He is also the younger brother of Master Tashea.

Francisco Maldonado III
Instructor | 2nd Dan Black Belt
Disciplines: Taekwondo, Shotokan Karate, Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Hapkido, Boxing, Wrestling, Professional Wrestling
Experience: 16 Years Martial Arts | 9 Years Teaching

Francisco Maldonado III is a well-rounded martial artist and coach with an impressive background spanning over 16 years and multiple disciplines, including traditional forms like Taekwondo and Shotokan Karate, as well as grappling and striking arts such as BJJ, Boxing, Wrestling, and even Professional Wrestling. He holds a 2nd Dan Black Belt and brings a thoughtful, strategic energy to both his training and teaching.

Inspired by martial arts movies and shows as a child, Francisco began his journey seeking strength—but discovered much more. “Martial arts teaches you how to keep going when things get tough. Sometimes it helps in ways you weren’t expecting, offering a new path through life’s challenges.”

As a teacher, Francisco is passionate about opening minds and encouraging growth, both mentally and physically. “I love helping others see things in a new light—like unlocking a box. And I love pushing myself to go further, even when I think I’ve reached my limit.”

Outside the dojang, Francisco holds a Bachelor’s in Finance and an Associate’s Degree in Game Design. He enjoys gaming, card games like Magic: The Gathering, spending time with friends and his girlfriend, and listening to music.

Dr. Ted Conliffe
Instructor | 3rd Dan Black Belt
Discipline: ITF Taekwon-Do
Experience: 11 Years Martial Arts | 2 Years Teaching

Dr. Ted Conliffe is a 3rd Dan Black Belt in ITF Taekwon-Do and brings both precision and passion to his role as an instructor. With over a decade of martial arts experience and two years of teaching, Ted is known for his supportive, technique-focused approach.

His journey began with a simple but powerful inspiration—his children. Watching them train sparked his own interest, and what started as encouragement quickly turned into a lifelong commitment to the martial arts lifestyle.

Ted finds great joy in helping students master new techniques and push past their limits. “There’s something incredibly fulfilling about seeing the moment when a student finally gets it—when everything clicks. It’s an honor to be part of that growth.”

Outside the dojang, Ted is a practicing medical doctor, bringing a unique blend of discipline, empathy, and anatomical knowledge to his teaching. Around the studio, he’s affectionately known by his nickname: “Shaq.”

Sherri Tucker
Instructor | 3rd Dan Black Belt
Discipline: Taekwondo
Experience: 12 Years Martial Arts | 7 Years Teaching

Sherri Tucker is a 3rd Dan Black Belt and dedicated Taekwondo instructor with over a decade of martial arts experience and seven years of teaching. Her journey began as a family activity when her son started training in first grade. With her daughter and husband also joining in, Sherri decided to step onto the mat herself—and never looked back.

A Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of professional experience, Sherri has devoted her career to helping adults with mental illness and substance use disorders. Her background in facilitating therapy sessions and supervising clinical teams enriches her approach to teaching martial arts, where emotional growth and personal empowerment are just as important as physical skill.

Sherri is passionate about supporting students as they build confidence and reach their goals. “It’s absolutely amazing to watch someone transform during the journey to their black belt. That progress—the strength, discipline, and self-belief they develop—is what makes teaching so rewarding.”

Outside the dojang, Sherri is a proud dog mom to three adorable pups who keep her active and smiling.

Jacob Lopez
Instructor | Black Belt
Disciplines: Kickboxing, Boxing, Taekwondo, Hapkido, Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling
Experience: 11 Years Martial Arts | New to Teaching

Jacob Lopez is a passionate martial artist with over a decade of experience across striking, grappling, and traditional disciplines. Inspired by action-packed stories in video games, movies, and books, Jacob embraced the martial arts lifestyle for its physical and mental benefits.

Now stepping into his role as an instructor, Jacob brings energy, relatability, and a love for community to every class. “I enjoy connecting with martial artists of all styles. Sharing that experience—and continuing to learn from others—is what drives me.”

He is CPR, AED, and First Aid certified and also serves as a Junior Firefighter at Lenola Fire Company Station 313, where he is preparing to earn his Firefighter 1 certification in January 2026.