SENSEI MELISSA KINCHEN'S
EXPERIENCE
EXPERIENCE
2ND DEGREE BLACK BELT
|
OVER 20 YEARS of training
|
3 YEARS IN THE AIR FORCE
|
MEET YOUR SENSEI
SENSEI MELISSA KINCHEN
SENSEI MELISSA KINCHEN
Melissa Kinchen | General Manager | 2nd Degree Black Belt
Melissa Kinchen is a 2nd Degree Black Belt with over 20 years of experience in martial arts. As the General Manager of Kinchen Martial Arts, she oversees all student enrollment, academy operations, and day-to-day logistics. Her role is central to the success of our programs—ensuring a smooth, welcoming, and growth-oriented environment for students and families alike.
A native of Mauldin, South Carolina, Melissa began her martial arts journey in American Karate. She earned her brown belt training under Ray Thompson in Simpsonville, SC—father and head coach of UFC welterweight contender Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson. This foundation instilled both technical excellence and a deep respect for traditional martial arts values.
Melissa attended the University of South Carolina before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force as a Medical Services Technician. While serving, she began training in Taekwondo, earning her black belt and quickly gaining recognition for her exceptional kicking skills. Her talent led to multiple tournament victories and the opportunity to assist in training fellow students.
At Kinchen Martial Arts, Melissa is an irreplaceable leader—bringing discipline, warmth, and a high standard of excellence to everything she does. She plays a vital role in shaping the academy’s culture and continues to lead by example both on and off the mat.
Melissa Kinchen is a 2nd Degree Black Belt with over 20 years of experience in martial arts. As the General Manager of Kinchen Martial Arts, she oversees all student enrollment, academy operations, and day-to-day logistics. Her role is central to the success of our programs—ensuring a smooth, welcoming, and growth-oriented environment for students and families alike.
A native of Mauldin, South Carolina, Melissa began her martial arts journey in American Karate. She earned her brown belt training under Ray Thompson in Simpsonville, SC—father and head coach of UFC welterweight contender Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson. This foundation instilled both technical excellence and a deep respect for traditional martial arts values.
Melissa attended the University of South Carolina before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force as a Medical Services Technician. While serving, she began training in Taekwondo, earning her black belt and quickly gaining recognition for her exceptional kicking skills. Her talent led to multiple tournament victories and the opportunity to assist in training fellow students.
At Kinchen Martial Arts, Melissa is an irreplaceable leader—bringing discipline, warmth, and a high standard of excellence to everything she does. She plays a vital role in shaping the academy’s culture and continues to lead by example both on and off the mat.
