Rothrock’s Kung Fu & Tai Chi – Chief Instructors
Master Rothrock started his training at the age of 15 in 1968. He’s trained in a variety of Karate and Kung Fu systems before finding a home with Grandmaster Leung Shum in 1976.
Master Rothrock opened his first studio in 1972 in Scranton, PA. He’s been training for over 40 years and teaching for over 35 years. He has published a number of articles and booklets on Kung Fu and Tai Chi that include:
– Beginner’s Guide to Kung Fu
– The Secrets of Kung Fu
– Kung Fu for Little Dragons
– A Simplified Guide to Tai Chi
– A Master’s Handbook on Eagle Claw Kung Fu
– An Instructor’s Teaching Guide for Kung Fu & Tai Chi
In addition, he has published over 25 DVDs on a variety of Kung Fu and Tai Chi subjects.
In 1980, Master Rothrock traveled to Hong Kong with Grandmaster Leung Shum. He met the great Grandmaster Ng Wai Nung (Grandmaster Leung Shum’s teacher). Master Rothrock demonstrated numerous routines for Ng Wai Nung and upon completion was awarded a Master’s certification.
Master Rothrock has completed the entire Eagle Claw system, Wu Tai Chi system, and Yang Tai Chi system under Grandmaster Leung Shum. He’s a recognized Master under Grandmaster Shum. He is the director of the Rothrock’s Kung Fu & Tai Chi Academies.
Master Rothrock has headed the academy for over 50 years and along with his staff of expert and Professional Black Belt Instructors, we offer you a unique, safe and fun classroom experience to meet or exceed your overall goals and success.
The Finest Professional Instructors with Years of Experience
Many martial arts schools come and go or many are part-time clubs that are only open a few days a week. Many instructors do this as a hobby or are not qualified to teach a martial art. Contrary to what most people believe, a black belt does not make you an instructor or teacher.
Here at the Academy, you have the assurance that we have a long history of success and have trained thousands of students over the years. We are a full-time professional Academy. Along with Master Rothrock, he has full-time professional instructors and staff dedicated to your overall goals and success.
All the instructors at Rothrock’s Kung Fu must complete a year-long instructor training course that includes both academic study of the 200-page Instructor Training Book written by Master Rothrock. They also must complete 50 hours of classroom study. All instructors follow the 100-page rotating lesson plan created by Master Rothrock to maximize a student’s training experience from the introductory levels of training to the advanced levels of training.
The Chief Instructors

Rob Pagonis – 2nd Level Black Sash
Began his training with Master Rothrock in 2010. After earning his first Black sash, he decided that he wanted to help pass on what he’d learned. He now owns Rothrock’s Kung Fu & Tai Chi in Butler.
Alan
Pesotine – Sifu Level Black Sash
Alan Pesotine started his training under Master Rothrock in 1980. He’s been teaching and operating the Scranton/Duryea area studio for 27 years. He’s Master Rothrock’s second oldest training student and is a disciple.
Michael Solito – 4th Level Black Sash
Mr. Solito studied various styles of martial arts before finding a home at Rothrock’s Kung Fu in 2003. He manages the Wexford studio.










