Derek Fickes

Derek has been training at American Karate Studios for over 19 years.  Through diligence and dedication, Derek has thrived as both a competitor and a teacher. Like many his age, he began his training as an alternative to the traditional sports offered in public school systems. As a competitor, Derek’s reputation is staggering; over his competition years, he has earned 32 PKC national titles, 35 Ohio PKC titles, 16 PKRA title, numerous grand championships, and 3 Big Dog titles in 2008, 2014, and 2016 (2 in Self Defense and 1 in Fighting). The PKC Elite Society, an invitation only group, which is comprised of some of the most Elite competitors and dedicated Martial Arts leaders in the United States, who demonstrate the competitive spirit, leadership and character of the PKC founder, Mr. Glenn R. Keeney inducted Derek into the Society in 2018.  In 2019 he qualified for Team USA in the 18+ Men’s Speed Fighting (under 85 Kg) Division in the WKC. He has achieved the rank of 5th degree black belt thus far and teaches the Black Belt Classes which will be held on Saturday mornings on occasion. He shows an uncanny ability to master his craft while taking on numerous other activities and excelling in school. As an alumni of Youngstown State University, he went on to graduate from Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, in Cleveland, OH in the spring of 2023. He currently practices Dental Medicine in Ohio, and when his schedule allows, helps instruct at the studio!