About Crouching Tigers
At Crouching Tigers, we believe that learning essential LifeSkills and SafetyLessons is not just beneficial—it’s a necessity for every child. In today’s world, where children are exposed to various challenges and risks, understanding how to navigate these situations safely is crucial for their overall well-being and development. Our child-centric martial arts program is designed to meet this critical need by providing kids with the knowledge and tools they require to stay safe in various situations, from playgrounds to public spaces. Through engaging, story-based lessons, we go beyond martial arts, instilling in children, ages 2-7, the LifeSkills of discipline, respect, and self-control while teaching them how to respond to potential dangers, such as encountering strangers or dealing with emergencies. Led by our certified instructors (Senseis), children gain a comprehensive understanding of safety that will serve them throughout their lives, and parents gain the knowledge and peace of mind knowing their child is better equipped for real-world circumstances.
Our Core Values
- We focus on the positive
- We build impactful relationships
- We are focused yet flexible
- We conduct ourselves with integrity
- We are resourceful and always learning
- We build a positive team and family spirit
- We take pride in ourselves and what we do
Our Founder + CEO
Olivia Roney Mitchell
Olivia Roney Mitchell founded Crouching Tigers in 2007 at just 20 years old, driven by her passion for
martial arts and her upbringing in a large family with a single mother. From a young age, Olivia was
captivated by martial arts and inspired to get involved after offering to clean her local martial arts school
in exchange for training. Despite financial struggles, she persevered and later created a class to make
martial arts accessible to all children, aiming to teach not just the basics of martial arts but also vital life
and safety skills.
Growing up, Olivia and her siblings were taught crucial life lessons and skills by their mother, but the
approach often instilled more fear and anxiety than confidence. Influenced by this experience, Olivia
recognized the need for a more positive and empowering method. Now, through martial arts, she
teaches these essential lessons in a way that builds confidence rather than fear. Olivia is committed to
using martial arts as a tool to equip children, ages 2-7 years old, with the skills they need to navigate the
world confidently, believing that these formative years are critical for fostering a resilient and
self-assured mindset.
As a mother of four, Olivia’s personal experience deeply enriches her approach, allowing her to connect
with children and teach them effectively. For nearly 20 years, Crouching Tigers has been committed to
instilling essential LifeLessons and SafetySkills through martial arts. The program integrates engaging
stories and Tiger characters, inspired by Olivia’s own family, to make safety lessons accessible and
memorable for preschool to first grade aged children. Crouching Tigers’ program includes promotion
ceremonies, inclusive of board breaking, and focuses on intuition, personal development, and the
crucial life lessons that set a foundation for a confident and resilient future.
Our Team
Sensei Kory
Instructor
Sensei Kory
“Hi, I’m Sensei Kory. I am 28 years old, I grew up in California/Arizona, and I moved to Indiana 4 years ago. My favorite thing to do is be with my kids. We love parks, walking through the woods, etc. I am very familiar with children and child care. I was a 2 year old teacher, and also was on the administrative side of it as well. I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of the Crouching Tigers team. Teaching the children is so much fun and rewarding when they achieve new goals. I cannot wait for the future to continue to grow with the children and the company!“
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Sensei Kory
Instructor
“Hi, I’m Sensei Kory. I am 28 years old, I grew up in California/Arizona, and I moved to Indiana 4 years ago. My favorite thing to do is be with my kids. We love parks, walking through the woods, etc. I am very familiar with children and child care. I was a 2 year old teacher, and also was on the administrative side of it as well. I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of the Crouching Tigers team. Teaching the children is so much fun and rewarding when they achieve new goals. I cannot wait for the future to continue to grow with the children and the company!“
Sensei Kaila
Instructor
Sensei Kaila
I’m Sensei Kaila! I come from a recruiting background and also have previous preschool experience. I’ve worked with an array of adults and kids- I feel this is one of my strengths! In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my kids outdoors and going on adventures. I love working for Crouching Tigers and the connections I develop with students. I’ve gained a lot of new knowledge during my time here and consider myself lucky to work for a company that has positive/encouraging leadership. I can’t wait to watch all of my students grow!
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Sensei Kaila
Instructor
I’m Sensei Kaila! I come from a recruiting background and also have previous preschool experience. I’ve worked with an array of adults and kids- I feel this is one of my strengths! In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my kids outdoors and going on adventures. I love working for Crouching Tigers and the connections I develop with students. I’ve gained a lot of new knowledge during my time here and consider myself lucky to work for a company that has positive/encouraging leadership. I can’t wait to watch all of my students grow!
Sensei Gillian
Indianapolis West/Lafayette Assistant Program Director
Sensei Gillian
Gillian is the Indy North West Assistant Program Director and Crouching Tigers Sensei! Gillian graduated from Purdue University in 2019 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She spent the last 4 years working with children ages 2-15 in a classroom and small group setting. “I have always loved to incorporate movement while teaching so I was very excited to join the Crouching Tigers team in 2023. In my free time I enjoy hiking, kayaking, camping, and traveling.”
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Sensei Gillian
Indianapolis West/Lafayette Assistant Program Director
Gillian is the Indy North West Assistant Program Director and Crouching Tigers Sensei! Gillian graduated from Purdue University in 2019 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She spent the last 4 years working with children ages 2-15 in a classroom and small group setting. “I have always loved to incorporate movement while teaching so I was very excited to join the Crouching Tigers team in 2023. In my free time I enjoy hiking, kayaking, camping, and traveling.”
Kristen Zogbi
Indiana Program Director
Kristen Zogbi
Kristen joined Crouching Tigers in 2011 and has seen our program successfully through an expansion across states and into over 250 preschools. Raised in southern Indiana, Kristen is now raising her own family of 2 very active boys on the west side of Indianapolis. Her experiences as a mom and instructor have made her an unflappable presence in our classes. When she is not with her team of instructors or students, you’ll find her at a ball field or practice nearly 7 days a week! 
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Kristen Zogbi
Indiana Program Director
Kristen joined Crouching Tigers in 2011 and has seen our program successfully through an expansion across states and into over 250 preschools. Raised in southern Indiana, Kristen is now raising her own family of 2 very active boys on the west side of Indianapolis. Her experiences as a mom and instructor have made her an unflappable presence in our classes. When she is not with her team of instructors or students, you’ll find her at a ball field or practice nearly 7 days a week!
Sensei Victoria
Indianapolis Central/South Assistant Program Director
Sensei Victoria
Victoria currently holds the Assistant Program Director position for SouthEast Indy territory! She has been with the company since the beginning of 2023 and has had a blast getting to know everyone!
“My biggest goal is to be a positive example every minute of every class. Every second counts when building impactful relationships! I find my inspiration for my goal in the hearts and attitudes of our CT students — they always come with determination, willingness, and perseverance. I seriously love watching the kiddos grow up and take our Crouching Tigers LifeSkills with them.”
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Sensei Victoria
Indianapolis Central/South Assistant Program Director
Victoria currently holds the Assistant Program Director position for SouthEast Indy territory! She has been with the company since the beginning of 2023 and has had a blast getting to know everyone!
“My biggest goal is to be a positive example every minute of every class. Every second counts when building impactful relationships! I find my inspiration for my goal in the hearts and attitudes of our CT students — they always come with determination, willingness, and perseverance. I seriously love watching the kiddos grow up and take our Crouching Tigers LifeSkills with them.”
Steve Zogbi
Master Trainer
Steve Zogbi
Sensei Steve joined Crouching Tigers in 2009 and has since brought amazing energy and passion to the program. With a physical education background, Sensei Steve is able to bring unique tips and tricks to instructors and empower them to be their best instructors and offer the best program to their students.
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Steve Zogbi
Master Trainer
Sensei Steve joined Crouching Tigers in 2009 and has since brought amazing energy and passion to the program. With a physical education background, Sensei Steve is able to bring unique tips and tricks to instructors and empower them to be their best instructors and offer the best program to their students.
Sensei David
Instructor
Sensei David
Sensei David has been teaching martial arts to kids of all ages for over 15 years and joined the Crouching Tigers team in early 2019! “I love watching each of my students learn and develop as a person through character building and physical skills. I’m excited to have your child in class as we work towards being a more confident and mindful person than we were yesterday.” 
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Sensei David
Instructor
Sensei David has been teaching martial arts to kids of all ages for over 15 years and joined the Crouching Tigers team in early 2019! “I love watching each of my students learn and develop as a person through character building and physical skills. I’m excited to have your child in class as we work towards being a more confident and mindful person than we were yesterday.”
Sensei Marissa
Instructor
Sensei Marissa
Sensei Marissa became a 1st degree black belt in Korean Martial Arts (Kul Sool Won) at the tender age of 13 after her father enrolled her to combat bullying she experienced in school. She is also a Group Ex fitness instructor and teaches Zumba, gospel dance fitness, among other classes. For over 17 years, she’s been passionate about performing arts and has a background in acting, dancing, singing, and writing. She has experience working with children with special needs and of various ages. Her God-given purpose is to share love and make a positive impact on as many people as possible. She relishes each opportunity to leave others better than they were before she met them. Joining the Crouching Tigers team is an answered prayer and a calling she is thrilled to have answered!
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Sensei Marissa
Instructor
Sensei Marissa became a 1st degree black belt in Korean Martial Arts (Kul Sool Won) at the tender age of 13 after her father enrolled her to combat bullying she experienced in school. She is also a Group Ex fitness instructor and teaches Zumba, gospel dance fitness, among other classes.
For over 17 years, she’s been passionate about performing arts and has a background in acting, dancing, singing, and writing. She has experience working with children with special needs and of various ages. Her God-given purpose is to share love and make a positive impact on as many people as possible. She relishes each opportunity to leave others better than they were before she met them. Joining the Crouching Tigers team is an answered prayer and a calling she is thrilled to have answered!
Sensei Ana
Chicago West Instructor
Sensei Ana
Hi, I’m Sensei Ana! I have a 4th-degree black belt in Taekwondo, graduated DePaul University with a masters degree in criminal justice but LOVES working with kids, and recently graduated from law school!
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Sensei Ana
Chicago West Instructor
Hi, I’m Sensei Ana! I have a 4th-degree black belt in Taekwondo, graduated DePaul University with a masters degree in criminal justice but LOVES working with kids, and recently graduated from law school!
Sensei Quinn
Chicago North Assistant Program Director
Sensei Quinn
Sensei Quinn has spent 7 years managing the accounts of local automotive leaders, as well as over 2 years managing restaurants. This has not only left him comfortable with building relations with business clientele, but also eager to guide instructors and students. In addition to holding a 4th degree black belt in Kenpo and a 1st degree black belt in Kenpo- Jitsu, Sensei Quinn has obtained high ranks in various other arts, including Tai Chi, Krav Maga, and Kickboxing. With over 25 years of martial arts experience, and 10 years of teaching young children beginning karate, he’s extremely excited to share his knowledge with the kids of the Chicagoland area.
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Sensei Quinn
Chicago North Assistant Program Director
Sensei Quinn has spent 7 years managing the accounts of local automotive leaders, as well as over 2 years managing restaurants. This has not only left him comfortable with building relations with business clientele, but also eager to guide instructors and students. In addition to holding a 4th degree black belt in Kenpo and a 1st degree black belt in Kenpo- Jitsu, Sensei Quinn has obtained high ranks in various other arts, including Tai Chi, Krav Maga, and Kickboxing. With over 25 years of martial arts experience, and 10 years of teaching young children beginning karate, he’s extremely excited to share his knowledge with the kids of the Chicagoland area.
Sensei Tiffany
Chicagoland Program Director
Sensei Tiffany
Sensei Tiffany has a love and passion for Martial Arts and fitness! She is a certified Martial Arts Master in Taekwondo, holds a 4th dan black belt and additionally holds rank in several types of Korean art forms. Tiffany has competed in over 200+ martial arts competitions including Jr. Olympics, Nationals and IL State. Tiffany has over 20 years of experience in the martial arts industry teaching, leading and managing martial arts facilities, understanding the importance of business relations. Tiffany is also a certified personal trainer, certified stretch therapist and is certified in CPR/first-Aid/AED.
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Sensei Tiffany
Chicagoland Program Director
Sensei Tiffany has a love and passion for Martial Arts and fitness! She is a certified Martial Arts Master in Taekwondo, holds a 4th dan black belt and additionally holds rank in several types of Korean art forms. Tiffany has competed in over 200+ martial arts competitions including Jr. Olympics, Nationals and IL State. Tiffany has over 20 years of experience in the martial arts industry teaching, leading and managing martial arts facilities, understanding the importance of business relations. Tiffany is also a certified personal trainer, certified stretch therapist and is certified in CPR/first-Aid/AED.
Sensei Jacky
Assistant Program Director
Sensei Jacky
Sensei Jacky is the Assistant Program Director for our Illinois team! Jacky has been with Crouching Tigers since August of 2021 and has been working with kids the last 5 years! Outside of classes, she has 4 kids of her own, ranging from 8 years old to 15 years old.
“I love working with kids and seeing the connections they make as they learn and grow” – Sensei Jacky
She is an amazing instructor and we love having her as a part of the Crouching Tigers family! 
Leave a comment if Sensei Jacky is your child’s instructor!
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Sensei Jacky
Assistant Program Director
Sensei Jacky is the Assistant Program Director for our Illinois team! Jacky has been with Crouching Tigers since August of 2021 and has been working with kids the last 5 years! Outside of classes, she has 4 kids of her own, ranging from 8 years old to 15 years old.
“I love working with kids and seeing the connections they make as they learn and grow” – Sensei Jacky
She is an amazing instructor and we love having her as a part of the Crouching Tigers family! Leave a comment if Sensei Jacky is your child’s instructor!
Sensei Famus
Instructor
Sensei Famus
Sensei Famus loves working with kids and being active. He has participated in a few martial arts growing up like Karate, Muay Thai, and Boxing. He also loves football and played professionally in the IFL, working out with a few NFL and CFL teams over the last few years. “I have been with Crouching Tigers for about 5 months now and my favorite part would be our ceremonies and seeing parents get just as excited as their kids when they break their boards!” We love having Sensei Famus as a part of our Chicago team!
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Sensei Famus
Instructor
Sensei Famus loves working with kids and being active. He has participated in a few martial arts growing up like Karate, Muay Thai, and Boxing. He also loves football and played professionally in the IFL, working out with a few NFL and CFL teams over the last few years.
“I have been with Crouching Tigers for about 5 months now and my favorite part would be our ceremonies and seeing parents get just as excited as their kids when they break their boards!”
We love having Sensei Famus as a part of our Chicago team!
Sensei Zo
Instructor
Sensei Zo
Sensei Zo has been with Crouching Tigers since September of 2021! In his free time, he is also a yoga instructor and a wrestling coach! “My favorite part of Crouching Tigers is seeing the kids learn how to both have fun and learn discipline. I love seeing them apply the LifeSkills they learn in class as well as help them along their fitness and martial arts journey!” Zo has such a positive energy in class, we love having him as a part of our team!
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Sensei Zo
Instructor
Sensei Zo has been with Crouching Tigers since September of 2021! In his free time, he is also a yoga instructor and a wrestling coach!
“My favorite part of Crouching Tigers is seeing the kids learn how to both have fun and learn discipline. I love seeing them apply the LifeSkills they learn in class as well as help them along their fitness and martial arts journey!”
Zo has such a positive energy in class, we love having him as a part of our team!