About  the Zhong Yi Kung Fu Association (忠義國術館)

The Meaning of Zhong Yi (忠義)

 

The Mandarin term "Zhong Yi" carries a meaning that does not have an exact equivalent in English. It is most accurately translated as "loyalty and justice" or "righteousness." These are the guiding principles that members of the Association strive to embody through their martial arts practice, aiming to be upstanding citizens. The Association fosters a family-like environment, distinguishing itself from most martial arts schools. This close-knit atmosphere is reflected in the honorary titles used: the head instructor is called Shīfu (師父), which means "head-of-family," while senior students are referred to as Shīxiōng (師兄) for "older brother" and Shījiě (師姐) for "older sister," among others.​

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Shifu/Sifu Nelson Ferreira

 

Nelson Ferreira moved from Brazil to the United States and, in 1995, founded the Zhong Yi Kung Fu Association in Madison, WI. He has devoted himself to preserving his master's teachings and promoting Kuoshu/Guoshu in the region. Coming from a family of martial artists, Shifu Ferreira began practicing martial arts at an early age, starting with Judo under his father’s guidance. He explored many other traditional disciplines, including Jiu Jitsu, Karate, Aikido, Kendo, Tae Kwon Do, and Muay Thai, before dedicating himself to the art of Northern Shaolin.

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Disciples

 

In October of 2022 Shifu Ferreira accepted his first group of disciples that will carry on the legacy of the Northern Shaolin and Sar Ping Lion Arts that were handed down to him from his masters. Disciples are students who are committed to learning the whole system and not just part of it. Their journey no longer has “stages” as it is one path they take with their Shifu. Being a disciple, in a sense, is a higher “rank” than any within the school, as they are perpetual students/teachers of the systems and an extension of Shifu Ferreira and his teachings.

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Instructors

 

All instruction at ZYKFA is provided by Shifu Ferreira, his disciples, ZYKFA instructors, and senior students. Instructors are selected based on their character and their commitment to deepening their understanding of martial arts through teaching. There are four levels of instructors at the ZYKFA, Assistant Instructor (working on becoming an instructor), Instructor, Senior Instructor and Master. The instructor team includes regional, national, international, and world champions in full-contact fighting, forms and lion dance competitions, as well as certified referees and judges for Chinese martial arts and lion dance competitions at the regional, national, and international levels.

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Students

 

The students are the heart of ZYKFA. The Association offers both youth and adult programs, striving to create a family- and community-oriented atmosphere. In addition to Shaolin classes, students have access to cultural experiences, such as Lion Dances throughout the year, Kung Fu demonstrations at festivals, and Drum Array performances. The school community also frequently gathers for a variety of social events such as movie and game nights.

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Facilities

 

ZYKFA’s facilities provide a comprehensive and welcoming environment for martial arts training and community activities, including:

• Large class area

• Class viewing area with seating

• Separate audio/visual room

• Meeting/library area

• Matted stretching area

• Weight room with full Olympic-style free weights, benches, and rack

• Heavy bag area

• Lockers

• Separate men's and women's restrooms

• Retail area with various items for sale