Rick Bickerstaff is the Chief Instructor at the West Ashley Masters Studios of Self Defense. He has been formally studying the Martial Arts for approximately 25 years, and is currently a 5th degree Black Belt (Godan) in the venerable art of Shaolin Kempo Karate. Over Rick’s journey in the Martial Arts, he has diligently trained in Kempo, Kung Fu, Wu Shu, Kali, Grappling, Tai Chi, and various weapons.

With regard to academic education, Rick has an Associate Degree in Civil Engineering, a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, and a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Leadership. Rick is a car enthusiast, and also enjoys motorcycle riding, snowboarding, surfing, kayaking, canoeing, backpacking, camping, softball, and other sports activities. Rick is currently engaged to his beautiful fiancé, Wendy Ray.

Rick has two children that have studied Martial Arts at various times in their lives. His son, Rick (III) graduated from Charleston Southern University and is in the video production industry in Hollywood/Los Angeles, California. His daughter, Nichole, is currently at Savannah College of Art and Design studying photography, visual art, and advertising.