About Us

Choose a dojo that invests in people, not just punches. Brito’s Martial Arts is a supportive community where students build focus, respect, and resilience—skills that matter on the mats and in everyday life!

Our Story

At Brito’s Martial Arts, families choose us for clear progress, patient coaching, and real-world skills. Our age-specific classes keep students engaged, safe, and confident—from first stance to black belt—without pressure or gimmicks. We work hard to create a supportive and inspiring family environment where students can build confidence, improve physical fitness, and develop street smarts while immersing themselves in the rich culture and tradition of martial arts.

We opened in 2016 to offer a better experience: traditional karate taught with modern pedagogy, patient feedback, and a strong emphasis on safety. Classes are right-sized, instructors are approachable, and progress is transparent. Whether your goal is bully-prevention for your child or a purposeful workout for yourself, you’ll find a thoughtful path forward—and a team that’s in your corner.

Values

SAFETY FIRST

Controlled, supervised, safe training

POSITIVE COACHING

Encouraging, patient, and progress-focused to build confidence

INCLUSIVE & WELCOMING

All ages, all levels

RESPECT & DISCIPLINE

Reinforcing important principles like courtesy, focus and responsibility

CLEAR PROGRESS PATH

Transparent belts, measurable goals

Meet Our Team

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

SENSEI

Luis Brito

Lead Instructor

Luis Brito achieved the title of Sensei in 2008, and is the lead instructor at Brito’s Martial Arts. Training since 2000 and teaching since 2008, he’s known for patient, fundamentals-first coaching for kids and adults.

In 2016, he and his family opened the Wingdale dojo to serve the local community. He’s active in local volunteer work and church outreach.

IKKYU

Mercedes Brito

Assistant Instructor & Dojo Director

Ikkyu Mercedes Brito began training in 2006 and has taught Little Warriors since 2016. With more than a decade of experience guiding kids—including those with special needs—she creates a calm, welcoming class. Her lessons blend safety, confidence, and age-appropriate skills. Mercedes also volunteers every Sunday at her church nursery school.

Diego B_edited_edited_edited_edited_edit

SEMPAI

Diego Brito

Assistant Instructor

Sempai Diego Brito has trained since 2014, earning his 1st Degree Black Belt in 2021 and 2nd Degree in 2025. Growing up in the dojo, he brings calm leadership and clear fundamentals to every class. He assists with youth and family sessions and supports students at all levels. Diego is also active in local community service.

SENSEI

Mark Wellansky

Guest Instructor

Sensei Mark is a 3rd Degree black belt and longtime NYC educator who specializes in character-driven coaching. He co-owns Fusion Martial Arts and runs social-skills programs with his wife for children and teens. On the mats, he pairs technical precision with encouragement and accountability. Off the mats, he serves his church and local community.

SENSEI

Cesar Sagastume Mejia

GUEST INSTRUCTOR

Sensei Cesar Sagastume Mejía holds black belts in Karate (1st Dan 2001; 2nd Dan 2006), Taekwondo (2003), and Krav Maga (2015). He trained for years with Sensei Mark and Sensei Luis. At Fusion, he teaches practical Krav Maga to advanced teens and adults and supports karate classes. He has also served Ossining as a volunteer firefighter since 2008.

OUR RESIDENT

BLACK BELTS

Guest Instructors

Embodying the values of true martial artists, our dedicated roster of Black Belts continue setting a positive example for all students by assisting with classes in order to further grow in their training and experience.