Cherry Hill Academy of Martial Arts
Led by Master Joseph Mertz, Chief Instructor and Owner
At Cherry Hill Academy of Martial Arts (CHAMA), we believe martial arts is more than just physical training—it’s a lifelong path of discipline, growth, and transformation. Under the guidance of Master Joseph Mertz, our students not only learn powerful self-defense techniques, but also build confidence, character, and community.
Master Joseph Mertz began his martial arts journey in August 2006 at the age of 39. Defying expectations, he earned his first black belt in Tae Kwon Do just three years later, on October 18, 2009. Since then, his passion and dedication have only deepened, leading him to advanced training, teaching, and leadership roles across multiple martial arts disciplines.
Master Mertz holds the following black belt ranks:
5th Dan, Kido Kwan (ITF Tae Kwon Do) – Certified #5-70-3103
5th Dan, Chung Do Kwan (WTF Tae Kwon Do) – Certified #5-5514
1st Dan, Moo Duk Kwan (International Tang Soo Do) – Certified #18174-190
In January 2016, Master Mertz was appointed Chief Instructor of Cherry Hill Martial Arts by KJN Dan Allebach. He continued to expand his knowledge under KJN Eric Kovaleski, earning his Tang Soo Do black belt in 2014 through the Global Korean Martial Arts Federation. He achieved the rank of 4th Dan in Tae Kwon Do in May 2017 and currently leads CHAMA as both a teacher and mentor.
Master Mertz’s excellence has been recognized by numerous organizations:
Acton Martial Arts Hall of Fame – Excellence in Teaching (2016), Esteemed Modern Warrior (2018)
USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame – Most Inspirational Black Belt (2015), Instructor of the Year (2016 & 2017), Master of the Year (2018)
Legends of the Martial Arts Hall of Fame – Instructor of the Year (2015 & 2016)
California Legends Hall of Fame – Master of the Year (2017)
Philadelphia Historic Martial Arts Society Hall of Honors – Inducted (2018)
Who’s Who in the Martial Arts – Honoree (2018)
He is also actively involved in promoting unity and excellence within the martial arts community through leadership roles, including:
Alliance – A Unity Within All Martial Arts – New Jersey State Director
Universal Song Do Kwon Alliance – Member
Global Korean Martial Arts Federation – Member
New Jersey State Tournament Director – Since 2016
International Council of Grandmasters – Inducted in 2018
Master Mertz’s personal journey has been featured in Tae Kwon Do Times and Life Skills for Kids: A Book of Inspirational Stories from the Martial Arts. His story continues to inspire students of all ages to believe in themselves and pursue excellence.
With decades of experience and a deep commitment to tradition and innovation, Master Mertz continues to lead CHAMA with heart, skill, and the unwavering belief that anyone can achieve greatness through martial arts.
Pil Sung.