INSTRUCTORS
Kwan Lee
Kwan is the Founder and Director of Systema USA. He started his martial arts journey over 40 years ago in Shotokan Karate and progressed to Chinese Gung Fu, Indonesian Pencak Silat, and Philipino Martial Arts. In 2001, Kwan became certified in Russia to teach Systema by the Founders Vladimir Vasiliev and Mikhail Ryabko and is considered by them as “one of the top instructors of Systema." Additionally, Kwan is a family man and an engineer for commercial and military programs. He has extensive firearms and survival training, has taught law enforcement and military, and has advised on specialized curriculum for groups like G4S-ITI / Armour Group. He is a graduate of ITI's Protective Services Program. FROM THE FOUNDERS OF SYSTEMA “I can say that Kwan Lee is a real man and a true warrior. He knows how to be a loyal and generous friend and instructor. We are thankful to him for that.” “Могу сказать, что Квон Лии настоящий мужчина и истинный воин. Он знает как быть верным и щедрым другом и инструктором. И за это мы ему благодарны.” – Col. Mikhail Ryabko (Distinguished Veteran of High-Risk Special Operations Units and Founder of Systema) “Certainly one of the top and most experienced Systema Instructors, Mr. Kwan Lee has exceptional skills in Systema. Kwan moves in a true Systema style, smooth and precise, his understanding of every aspect of Systema is deep and profound. Kwan’s fundamental personal integrity, strength and talent make him an outstanding instructor. I know that training with Kwan will make students competent in self defense as well as more healthy and solid individuals.” – Vladimir Vasiliev (Distinguished Veteran of High-Risk Special Operations Units and Founder of Systema) “Kwan Lee is one of the most “senior” and most experienced Systema Instructors, who with great enthusiasm and selflessness has been bringing his understanding of Systema to people. Kwan’s work stands out with its initiative, individuality, diligence and depth of insight into every topic of study. His methodical approach towards teaching Systema is independent, unique, clear and effective. Kwan’s notable organizational abilities, high energy level and constant strive for knowledge make him a top notch specialist, capable of outstanding presentation of all key elements of Systema.” ” Квон Лии является одним из и опытнейших инструкторов, который вот уже много лет увлечённо и самоотверженно несёт людям своё понимание Системы. Работу Квона отличают инициативность, самобытность, старательность, глубина проникновения в каждый изучаемый вопрос. Его методический подход к преподаванию Системы самостоятелен, своеобразен, прост, доходчив и эффективен. Хорошие организаторские способности, высокая активность и постоянное стремление к познанию нового делают Квона Лии высококлассным специалистом, способным обучать основам Системы на высоком учебно-методическом уровне. ” – Major Konstantin Komarov (Distinguished Veteran of GRU, Protective Services Operator, and Master of Systema Small Arms Movement and Combat Psychology)
Art Cuellar - Assistant Instructor
A lifelong student of strength training, endurance sports, and the martial arts, Art began studying Isshinryu Karate at the age of 7 and entered the tournament circuit in his early 20s. During this time and beyond, Art accumulated a vast knowledge of body mechanics, strength building, nutrition, and plyometrics, and ultimately became a certified personal trainer in order to better help others achieve their fitness and life goals. Art is also a gifted mountaineer and offers a wealth of knowledge in the area of regional trails and mountain treks. In 1996, Art became one of the first Russian Martial Arts students in the Seattle area, learning from a former student of Master Mikhail Ryabko. In 2011, Art began studying with Kwan Lee and found his home and heart in the Russian Martial Art of Systema. Art is internationally certified by Systema Headquarters, Toronto, and offers his unique approach and mindful instruction through group and private lesson. Art is CPR/AED certified and has completed Level 1 Trauma training with former Special Operations Medic Jeff Hensley.