Headmaster and Principal Instructor
Eric Zimmerman serves as Headmaster and Principal Instructor of Santō Ichi-ryū, LLC © (SIR). Following the passing of Clayton McCombs, Sensei, in 2021, Eric was entrusted with the school’s leadership. He expresses his heartfelt gratitude to the McCombs family, the Cheng family of Cheng’s Martial Art School, and The Universal System of Martial Arts for their trust and support. In carrying this responsibility forward, he is committed to preserving SIR’s teachings, maintaining the integrity of its practice, and guiding its development for future generations.
Eric began his martial arts training at the age of nine. His studies have included Western Boxing; Taekwondo and Hapkido with Master Yun; American Kenpo with Grandmaster Shen Cheung; Kenjutsu/Iaijutsu and Tuite with Clayton McCombs, Sensei; Iaido and Zen with Roshi Jules Shuzen Harris, Ed.D.; Northern Seven Star Praying Mantis Kung Fu with Dr. Steve L. Sun, Sifu; and Chang Moo Kwan Taekwondo with Grandmaster Paul Cheng. Alongside SIR, Eric teaches European longsword and Western martial arts, drawing on his studies with various organizations and clubs and material dating from the 14th through 16th centuries.
Eric has taught at local universities, martial arts schools, and fencing organizations. He also provides private instruction and group seminars. His commitment to teaching has been recognized with “Instructor of the Year” honors from the United Fellowship of Martial Artists and the World Karate Union Hall of Fame.
Beyond the martial arts, Eric maintains a longstanding interest in strength training and physical fitness. He previously set an American powerlifting record with the World Natural Powerlifting Federation. His teaching encourages students from varied backgrounds to develop skill, confidence, and discipline through consistent practice.