David Chavez
Dai Senpai – Salinas EIRB
Sandan – Enshin Itto Ryu Battojutsu
Nidan – Kokoro Kyu Shin Kai Jujutsu
Chuden Omote – Muso Shinden Fudo Ikken Ryu Battojutsu
New Beginnings
David joined the sword program at UMASDA in 2022, where he found a community that shares his passion for martial arts. He contributes weekly by teaching and mentoring, helping others to develop their skills and fostering an environment of mutual respect and camaraderie. His teaching style emphasizes not just the physical aspects of martial arts but also the philosophical underpinnings that make the practice rich and rewarding. In 2025, he expanded his journey by joining the jujutsu program, seeking new skills and information that would enhance his martial prowess.
Honored with the title Dai Senpai (most senior amongst all students) in our sword lineage, David embodies the spirit of dedication and charisma within the martial arts community, representing not only his rank and title but also a commitment to fostering growth and learning among his peers. David was entitled Dai Senpai at Salinas EIRB by Steve Zalazowski Sensei in recognition of his weekly contributions, skill, and dedication to our student base. Our opening drills and several of our training enhancements were brought to our dojo by David, and instilled into our program to benefit the entire student body.
David has 15+ years of sword training, holding black belt level accomplishment in two different sword lineages. David finds beauty in the dance of the sword, capturing a blend of grace and power. His training has allowed him to hone a significant level of skill in various techniques and methods, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of swordsmanship. When not training or teaching, he spends his time in pursuit of a healthy lifestyle in the outdoors—hiking, exploring nature trails, and practicing mindfulness. His commitment to fitness complements his martial training, ensuring he remains in excellent condition.
David’s journey and contributions to the martial arts community are not just about personal achievement, but about creating a legacy of knowledge and support that will inspire generations to come. His passion for the sword arts and dedication to our students ensure that the spirit of martial arts remains alive and thriving in our dojo. Professionally, David has been employed as a reeducation and behavioral change specialist for over two decades, bringing a wealth of experience to the mats. His unique insights into behavior modification aid his students in overcoming mental barriers in their training.
In addition to his commitment to teaching and community, David is a proponent of integrating modern techniques and technologies into martial arts training. He explores innovative training methods, such as video analysis, to help students refine their techniques. By leveraging these tools, he aims to make training more effective and accessible to a broader audience.
Throughout his martial arts journey, David has encountered various challenges that have shaped his character and skills. Each obstacle has been a lesson, teaching him resilience and adaptability, qualities that he emphasizes in his teachings. He often shares stories from his training experiences, illustrating how perseverance can lead to mastery and personal development.
David continues to help spread positivity and knowledge, believing that martial arts is as much about personal growth as it is about combat, emphasizing that learning skill sets and the ability to utilize those skills are paramount. His vision is to inspire others to pursue their own martial arts journeys, highlighting the transformative power of discipline and commitment.
