Kyoshi Phil Penticost

Phil began training in Belfast in 1991, studying Freestyle Tae Kwon Do under Kwan Ja Nim Steve McGuiness. His curiosity soon led him into Japanese Ju Jutsu, where he trained under Sensei Gerard McAlister and Dave Tony, an All Ireland Ju Jutsu coach.

After moving to America in 2004, he continued developing his skills through a mixed style under Master Brown. His interest in MMA and grappling later brought him to American Top Team, where he earned certification to teach under its banner.

In 2010, Phil established Victory and created American Freestyle Tai Jitsu, bringing together lessons from Ju Jutsu, MMA and Tae Kwon Do. Today, Victory connects students and families across Apollo Beach, Riverview, Ruskin, FishHawk and Chiefland.

His story is one of continued learning. For parents getting to know Victory, it explains the experience and personal purpose behind the academy.

Phil describes martial arts as a lifestyle. His goal is to teach the next generation of lady and gentleman warriors, sharing the Bushido Code and the values of respect, honor, courage, loyalty, integrity, honesty and compassion.

He believes training offers opportunities to develop strength, flexibility, fitness, confidence, self discipline and companionship. Those aims connect physical practice with the way students grow as people.

His interest in weapons training has remained throughout his journey. He has studied Japanese sword arts and Filipino martial arts, and continues learning Pekiti Tirsia Kali under his friend and mentor Tuhon Apolo Ladra.

When you visit Victory, ask your local team about the curriculum, instructors and class options available for you or your child. The conversation is a chance to understand how the academy’s values guide its teaching.