Mark Moynihan, a native of Holyoke, Massachusetts, brings a rich background in martial arts and a dedication to service to his role as an instructor at Tactical Self Rescue. Born and raised in Holyoke, Mark graduated from Holyoke Catholic High School, Class of ’87. Driven by a desire to serve his country, he enlisted in the Massachusetts Air National Guard's 104th Fighter Wing. During his military service, Mark pursued his academic interests, earning a Bachelor of Science in Robotic Engineering from the University Without Walls at the University of Massachusetts.
Mark's fascination with martial arts began early in life and has been a significant part of his journey. He has trained in various styles, including Enshin, Kempo, Judo, Isshin-Ryu Karate, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) for over 20 years. His dedication and hard work culminated in earning a 2nd degree black belt in BJJ in 2024 from Gabriel Gladiator Santos @ the Gabriel Gladiator Training Center in West Springfield, MA. Currently, Mark instructs several BJJ classes, with a particular passion for teaching children. His expertise also extends to serving as the Combatives Instructor for the 104th Fighter Wing, where he shares his extensive knowledge with fellow servicemembers.
Professionally, Mark is employed as a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Engineer, specializing in Wireshark Quality of Service troubleshooting. His technical skills and problem-solving abilities complement his martial arts expertise, making him a well-rounded and versatile instructor.
Mark's qualifications include:
- Black Belt and Instructor in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- Black Belt in Isshin-Ryu, Kempo, and Enshin Karate
- Competitor in Full Contact Karate Competitions
- Competitor in BJJ Competitions, both weight and open class
- Combatives Instructor for the 104th Fighter Wing
Mark Moynihan's dedication to martial arts, his commitment to teaching, and his extensive experience in both military and civilian roles make him an invaluable asset to Tactical Self Rescue. His passion for empowering others through self-defense and tactical training ensures that students receive the highest level of instruction and are well-prepared to face any challenges.
