Master Russell A. Seveney II

    5th Dan - Hapkido

    5th Dan - Tae Kwon Do

    Security Professional for over 20 years

    Unarmed Protection Specialist / Trainer

    Stage Combat

    Stunt Man

Master Seveney began his training at Way of Orient under his instructor, Grand Master Yi, Jong Hak.  Master Seveney came from a multi-system training background (including Ishin Ryu, Kung Fu, Moo Duk Kwon-TKD, Boxing, and Fencing), but quickly learned to love Hapkido.

Master Seveney started his teaching career at Way of Orient as a 2^nd Red Belt (1^st Gup), and has continued to blend his knowledge of real-world combat with traditional Hapkido training.

Since the early 80’s, Master Seveney has been very active in the personal and corporate security industry.  From bouncing in many rather "unsavory" bars to walking the floors in Psyche Hospitals, Master Seveney has taken his skills and applied them in real-world combat.  He has learned, sometimes the hard way, what works, and what’s for show.

In addition to his continued Hapkido training, Master Seveney also trains occasionally in the arts of Shoot Wrestling and Escrima.  Master Seveney has also coached, refereed, and/or competed in:

• Dog Brothers - Gathering of the Pack

• World Karate Organization
       * Formerly ranked #3 - Heavy Weight Division

• California State Open Martial Arts Championships
       * Grand Champion (x2) - Heavy Weight Sparring
       * Gold Medal - Self Defense
       * Gold Medal Coach - Self Defense
       * Gold Medal Coach - Forms

• Ventura’s Cup Martial Arts Challenge
       * Founder and VCMAA President

• Competitor and Referee - Pro-Hapkido, 2004-2008

• Battle of LA, Gold Medal - Power Breaking 2006, 2007

• Referee for Cold Steel Challenge 2004

• Founder and President - Southern California Martial Promotions (SoCaMP)

• Guest Lecturer - California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI)

Master Seveney has started turning his skills toward the entertainment industry as a stunt man and fight choreographer.  He has recently completed work on 2 short films for students of the Brook’s Institute of Photography and will soon be involved in 2 feature films shooting soon.

Master Seveney’s continuing goal at Way of Orient is to teach his students not only the tactics and skills of martial arts, but also the confidence, discipline, and personal satisfaction from training.