Master
Steven Tarrago
Steven Tarrago, a martial arts instructor, won gold at the 2022 World Master IBJJF Championship. With over 45 years of experience, he continues to excel in both teaching and competition.
Professor Steven Tarrago is an accomplished martial arts instructor with more than 40 years of experience dedicated to
teaching, coaching, and developing students of all ages and skill levels. As the Lead Instructor at Twin Dragons Martial
Arts, he brings an exceptional depth of knowledge and expertise across multiple martial arts disciplines. He holds Black
Belt certifications and instructor credentials in:
* Okinawan Karate under Master Mose Colon, Master Kenneth Ruiz, and Master Scott Ashley.
* Kung Fu under the Worldwide Chinese Internal Martial Arts Association, as well as Kun Tao–Silat.
* Kickboxing and Boxing under World Champion “Great” Scott Ashley.
* Professor Mario Sperry’s Martial Arts System and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
In addition to his extensive martial arts background, Professor Tarrago is a Certified Senior Law Enforcement Defensive
Tactics Instructor at the Police Academy and a Police Close Quarters Combat Instructor, bringing real-world defensive
tactics experience to his instruction.
Throughout his competitive career, Professor Tarrago has earned numerous regional and national titles and is an IBJJF
World Masters Gold Medalist in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He has also competed successfully in full-contact kickboxing and
traditional martial arts tournaments, earning recognition for his technical skill, determination, and sportsmanship.
As a coach, Professor Tarrago has successfully trained and cornered amateur and professional Mixed Martial Arts
competitors, as well as professional boxers, helping athletes reach their highest levels of competition through disciplined
instruction and personalized coaching.
Beyond his impressive achievements, Professor Tarrago is deeply committed to fostering a supportive, respectful, and
family-oriented training environment. He believes martial arts is about far more than physical technique—it is a lifelong
journey that builds confidence, discipline, honor, integrity, perseverance, respect, and a positive mindset.
Known for his warm, approachable, and encouraging teaching style, Professor Tarrago develops strong relationships with
both students and parents, creating an atmosphere where every individual feels welcomed, challenged, and inspired to
succeed. His ability to combine world-class technical instruction with genuine mentorship has helped make Twin Dragons
Martial Arts a trusted and respected martial arts academy within the community.
Whether students are seeking self-defense skills, improved physical fitness, competition training, or personal growth,
Professor Steven Tarrago is dedicated to helping each individual achieve their goals while building character, confidence,
and lifelong success—both on and off the mat.
Sensei
Ricardo Mandini
Dedicated to a Lifetime of Martial Arts, Discipline, and Personal Growth. Inspiring Students of All Ages to Achieve Excellence in Wado-Ryu Karate, Jiu-Jitsu, and Mixed Martial Arts
Ricardo Mandini was born and raised in Guayaquil, Ecuador, where his passion for martial arts began at the young age of seven. What started as a childhood interest soon became a lifelong commitment to personal growth, discipline, and excellence through the martial arts. Ricardo embarked on a journey that led him to earn a black belt in Wado-Ryu Karate-Do, a traditional Japanese style known for its focus on fluidity, precision, and harmony between body and mind.
Driven by a desire to expand his knowledge and sharpen his skills, Ricardo also dedicated himself to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, earning his black belt under the guidance of renowned instructor Sensei Daniel Valverde at the prestigious MMA Masters. This combination of striking and grappling arts has allowed Ricardo to develop a well-rounded mastery of both stand-up and ground fighting techniques, with a deep understanding of the physical, mental, and strategic aspects of combat sports.
With decades of experience on the mats, Ricardo believes martial arts is more than just physical training—it is a powerful tool for building character, resilience, and confidence. His journey has taught him the importance of perseverance, respect, and the pursuit of continuous improvement, both in and out of the dojo. Throughout his life, Ricardo has been inspired to share these values with others, helping students of all ages unlock their potential, overcome obstacles, and develop the strength to face life’s challenges.
Today, Ricardo continues to live by the principles instilled in him through martial arts and remains passionate about teaching, mentoring, and fostering a community where discipline, respect, and personal growth are at the heart of every class.
Book an Appointment
