Kayla Stomberg

I started martial arts when I was 4 because I was completely obsessed with Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. I wanted to be just like Kimberly, the Pink Ranger. That was the whole reason.

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But, from a young age I hated being “front and center.” Standing in front of people felt uncomfortable, which is funny considering I now coach for a living.
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For the first four years training under Charlie McShane (360 Defense Norwich) and Josh Hesser (360 Defense Colchester), I barely spoke. I basically only said “yes sir” or “no sir.” My nickname was “FritzBot” — robotic, quiet, no visible personality, zero self-confidence.

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Then one day after I got my driver's license I walked up to Coach McShane and asked for a job. He said, “Come back Tuesday.” And that was it.

I’ve kind of morphed from that shy, quiet kid into a school owner who now works to build up other quiet introverts — the ones who don’t naturally demand attention but have so much potential.

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I also joke (but not really) that martial arts was the only sport I was good at, so I stuck with it. I’m 5’2” and wildly unathletic by most standards. But something about martial arts just clicked for me.

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I’m also a mom of two stubborn, driven, amazing kids who will probably both be taller than me by the time they’re 10 — thanks to my 6’6” husband.

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I coach because I know what it feels like to be the quiet one in the room. I’m especially passionate about serving the kids and adults who don’t see themselves as naturally athletic, loud, or dominant — the ones who might stand in the back at first.

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I understand them because I was them. My purpose is to help people build real, practical self-defense skills while developing steady confidence — not ego, not intimidation, but the kind of confidence that carries into school, work, and everyday life.

I’m motivated by growth. Watching someone who once doubted themselves move with certainty, use their voice, or step forward when they would have previously stepped back — that’s why I coach.

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If you’re looking for a coach who values discipline, grit, and technical skill — but also balance, sustainability, and mental resilience — then I’m the right fit for you.