MASTER ERIC CRUZ
Master Cruz was inspired to train in the art of Kung Fu in the 1960’s after watching Bruce Lee in The Green Hornet. It was then that the seeds of hunger for Kung Fu were planted.
Soon after that, in 1969, he began training in an after-school program in Bronx, NY; happily training in any martial art they had to offer. After moving to Massachusetts in 1976, Master Cruz got involved in Boxing. Then in 1981, he began his formal training at the USA Kung Fu Training Centers under Sifu Glenn C. Hart in the style Tzu Jan Kune Do.
With the thoughts of opening his own school, Master Cruz began competing in various regional and national tournaments in 1989. He went on to receive ten national titles. While gaining more knowledge of the martial arts and meeting so many great competitors, he began promoting and running the Cape Cod Classics Tournament. He continued to run this tournament from 1991 to 2002.
In 1992, Master Cruz’s dream of opening a school became a reality when he opened the doors in Hyannis, MA. He was also fortunate enough to meet his good friend, Sifu Maury, who became is good friend. In 2001, Master Cruz renamed the school USA Kung Fu Academy.
Master Cruz currently trains with Grand Master Winchell P.C. Woo in Five Elements Tai Chi, recently receiving recognition from Grand Master Woo for continued excellence in training at the highest level in 2021. We are also fortunate enough to train with Shaolin Monk Shi De Cheng when he honors us with his visit from China at least once per year. He currently continues to share knowledge with his long-time friend and brother in Kung Fu, Sifu Maury as they both continue on their Kung Fu journeys.
In 2024, Master Cruz was appointed Director of the Traditional Martial Arts Committee by the World Fighting Martial Arts Federation.
After training for 40 years, Master Cruz continues to teach Kung Fu in Hyannis, MA having found a passion for teaching. Now he encourages his students to not only learn the material but also grow as individuals through self-discipline and accomplishment through effort.
Seven Hall of Fame Awards
2024 appointed Director of the Traditional Martial Arts Committee by WFMAF
2021 recognized by Grand Master Winchell P. C. Woo as Master
2015 Voted Best Martial Arts School on Cape Cod
2014 Voted Best Martial Arts School on Cape Cod
2013 Voted Best Martial Arts School on Cape Cod
2013 Recognized by the State of Massachusetts for Dedication & Commitment to spread the teachings of Martial Arts
2012 Inducted into World Organization of Martial Arts with Ranking of 8th degree & made the Massachusetts W.O.M.A. Director
2011 Hall of Fame Award for Outstanding Dedication to the Martial Arts
2005/2006 National Honor Roll Society Outstanding Teacher of the Year
1995 World Martial Arts Hall of Fame, Sifu of the Year and Competitor of the Year
1992 PKL-AKL HAll of Fame, Weapons & Forms Competitor of the Year
1991 N.C.I.M.A.A. Hall of Fame, Weapons & Male Competitor of the Year
1991 PKL-AKL Hall of Fame, Weapons & Forms Competitor of the Year
Community Involvement
Board Member of CARE (Cape Aids Resource Exchange)
Member of the Community Advisory Board for Hospice and Palliative Care of Cape Cod
After school activities program volunteer for the Barnstable Youth Center
Tai Chi and Health and Fitness Instructor at Barnstable Senior Center