Meet the Team
Pedro Sanchez
Chief Instructor & Owner
Pedro E. Sanchez is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Krav Maga with more than 18 years of experience in martial arts, self-defense, and instructor training. He began his martial arts journey training in Capoeira before moving into Jiu-Jitsu and eventually finding his passion in Krav Maga in 2005 under Master Beau Durocher at Beach Cities Krav Maga in Huntington Beach, California.
After years of intensive daily training and assisting classes, Pedro was selected for instructor training and began teaching by early 2006. He went on to spend more than six years teaching and helping grow Beach Cities Krav Maga throughout Orange County. As a Lead Instructor and Program Director, he managed and taught at locations in Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and Yorba Linda before relocating to Santa Barbara in 2011 to open SB Krav Maga and bring authentic Israeli self-defense training to the Central Coast.
Pedro holds a 4th Degree Black Belt with both the Krav Maga Legion (KML) and the American Krav Maga Federation (AKMF). He is Expert Level Certified through the Krav Maga Legion and American Krav Maga Federation, and has also earned instructor certifications through Krav Maga Alliance under John Whitman at the National Training Center in Culver City, California, as well as Krav Maga Worldwide at the National Training Center in Los Angeles. In addition, Pedro is KMX Youth Training Certified through Krav Maga Worldwide National Training.
Today, Pedro continues to teach practical, reality-based self-defense focused on confidence, situational awareness, and real-world application for civilians, families, first responders, and law enforcement personnel throughout Santa Barbara and the Central Coast.
Senior Black Belt Instructor
David Whitcomb
David Whitcomb is a Black Belt instructor who has been training in Krav Maga since 2012. Known for his strong technical skills, powerful striking, and dedication to self-defense training, David brings a wealth of experience and intensity to every class.
Despite his humble and approachable demeanor, David exemplifies the mindset, discipline, and perseverance that define Krav Maga. His attention to detail, relentless work ethic, and commitment to continuous improvement make him a respected instructor and role model for students of all experience levels.
Black Belt Instructor
Bobby Morris
Bobby Morris has been a dedicated member of SB Krav Maga since 2014 and is a Black Belt instructor with advanced-level Krav Maga skills. One of the most experienced practitioners in our studio, Bobby focuses his energy on teaching and giving back to the community, especially through youth self-defense programs and after-school classes at local schools.
As a father of two, Bobby brings a calm, patient, and supportive teaching style that makes him especially effective with children and teen students. He is passionate about helping young people build confidence, discipline, and practical self-defense skills in a safe and encouraging environment. His balance of high-level martial arts skill, athletic ability, and grounded teaching style makes him a respected instructor and role model within the SB Krav Maga community.
Lead Instructor
David Ashamalla
David Ashamalla brings over 10 years of Krav Maga training experience to SB Krav Maga. Known for his engaging teaching style, sense of humor, and creative training methods, David creates classes that are both fun and highly effective.
His game-based drills and practical approach help students develop real-world self-defense skills while staying motivated and engaged. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced student, David's classes offer a welcoming environment, valuable instruction, and fresh insights that help students grow in confidence and ability.
Instructor
Bryan Bell
Bryan Bell has been a dedicated member of SB Krav Maga since 2014 and is known for his passion, energy, and ability to inspire students of all ages and skill levels. With extensive experience in Krav Maga and self-defense training, Bryan brings enthusiasm and expertise to every class he teaches.
As a father, Bryan has a natural ability to connect with younger students, making him especially effective in our youth and teen programs. His strong technical skills, deep understanding of Krav Maga principles, and emphasis on confidence, resilience, and mindset help students develop both practical self-defense abilities and the determination to overcome challenges.