Biography
Neo El is a remarkable martial artist and instructor, whose journey in the world of martial arts is characterized by dedication, expertise, and a rich heritage. As a second-generation Lotus Black Belt (031-4B) under the mentorship of Ajarn Jack Gentry, Neo’s martial arts lineage is deeply rooted in tradition and excellence.
Early Training and Lotus Martial Arts: Neo’s martial arts journey began in 2004 when he embarked on his training alongside Sigung Jay Henderson Jr., forging a close bond with his fellow martial artist. His dedication and passion for martial arts were evident from the start, and under the
guidance of Ajarn Jack Gentry, Neo honed his skills and progressed to achieve the prestigious rank of second-generation Lotus Black Belt. This accomplishment is a testament to his unwavering commitment to mastering martial arts techniques and principles.
Taekwondo Background: Before joining the Lotus Martial Arts system, Neo hailed from Taekwondo America, where he held a senior second-degree black belt and was a certified instructor under the guidance of Master Sean Wilson. This prior experience added depth and versatility to his martial arts expertise, allowing him to draw from multiple disciplines in his teaching and training.
Military Service and Tactical Expertise: Neo El’s commitment to service extends beyond the martial arts realm. He is a proud US Navy Veteran, where he gained valuable experience and skills that he continues to apply in his martial arts journey. Neo is recognized as an expert in edged weapons and combative tactical knife techniques, further highlighting his dedication to self-defense and protection. Additionally, he holds the distinction of being a certified marksman in rifle shooting, showcasing his precision and discipline.
Golden Gloves Boxing Champion: Neo’s martial arts journey began at a young age, with boxing as one of his early pursuits. Remarkably, he became a Golden Gloves boxing champion, a prestigious title that he achieved starting from the age of 10. This early success in the world of boxing laid the foundation for his future accomplishments in martial arts.
Present-Day Training and Role: In the present day, Neo’s training is under the guidance of Sigung Jay Henderson, further enriching his martial arts knowledge and skills. He also plays a pivotal role
alongside Jay as an Assistant Instructor, sharing his expertise and passion with the students at Legacy Martial Arts & Fitness. Additionally, Neo serves as the business development liaison,
contributing to the academy’s growth and success.