School of Martial Arts (SOMA)

1515 Tulare Avenue, Tulare, CA 93274

map1515 Tulare Avenue, Tulare, CA 93274

About

School of Martial Arts (SOMA) offers martial arts, Olympic weightlifting, strength and conditioning, team sports, Black Belt Training, and Next Belt Testing. The program includes both group classes and private classes.

• Ages: 3–18 years old
• Schedule: Class options Monday–Friday in the evenings and Saturday mornings

The School of Martial Arts (SOMA) states that it focuses on the development of mind, body, and spirit. Its motto and slogan are “Achieving greatness one belt at a time” and “Achieving Greatness One Belt at a Time!!!” The school motto states: “Martial arts is my Secret I bare no Arms May God help me if I ever have to use my Art Conscious is my Guide Peace is my Way of Life Beauty and Self Realization is my Goal!” Monthly character topics include Focus, Intention, Compassion, Action, Loving Kindness, Gratitude, Forgiveness, Stillness, Right Thinking, Self Control, Right Speech, and Inner Peace. The concept for the Black Belt Training class is described as “Flow of Life!” Black Belt Training attire is listed as a traditional Karate Gi, with items to bring noted as “TBD.” Optimum Strength, which is part of the program, is focused on proper and fun techniques in Olympic weightlifting and overall health and fitness.

The leadership team includes Master Instructor Shifu/Kwan jang-nim/Sensei Ozzy Gonzales, Head Instructor Sabumnim Bryce Gonzales “Lil Shifu,” Instructor Zac Burris, and Class Instructor Mike Herring Sr. Master Instructor Ozzy Gonzales is the founder of Tsuru Shindon Ryu, holds a White Dragon Kung Fu Black Belt, a Tae Kwon Do 5th Dan Black Belt, and a Shotokan 1st Dan Black Belt, and has a BA in Sociology and a CA Teaching Credential, with a stated focus on mental and spiritual wellbeing and development. Head Instructor Bryce Gonzales is a professional boxer and professional mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter, a Black Belt 5th Dan, co-founder of Tsuru Shindo Ryu 5th Dan, and holds a TKD 3rd Dan Black Belt and a White Dragon Black Belt. Instructor Zac Burris is the owner and operator of Optimum Strength, has a coaching career ranging over 20 years, and has coached professionals, amateurs, and all ages in strength and conditioning and team sports.

One parent testimonial states that what stands out about S.O.M.A is the focus on spirit and describes their son as a student of over seven years who has earned a 2nd degree black belt. The program also shares quotations related to peace, character, and spiritual practice from sifu G., Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, Eckhart Tolle, and Rachel Cowan.

Last updated July 10, 2026.

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