This summer marked a major milestone at Ryer Martial Arts Academy — our 20th Annual Pittsburgh Filipino Martial Arts Camp. For the past two decades, this annual event has brought together students, instructors, and martial artists from across the country to train, connect, and celebrate the rich heritage of Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) right here in Pittsburgh.
Held over an immersive weekend, the camp focused on rank testing and hands-on training in the arts of Cacoy Canete Doce Pares and the Counterpoint Tactical System. Our participants ranged from first-time campers to seasoned practitioners, all coming together to share in the energy, discipline, and depth of this dynamic martial tradition.
What Made This Year Special
This year was more than just a camp — it was a celebration of 20 years of dedication to the art and culture of FMA. Over the years, this event has grown from a small group of passionate martial artists to a thriving community of learners and leaders, united by respect for the art and for each other.
Some highlights from this year’s camp included:
Black Belt Promotions
We’re proud to announce the well-deserved promotion of Raisa and Jason to First Degree Black Belt, and Preston and Mark to Third Degree Black Belt in the Cacoy Canete Doce Pares.
Grandmaster Seminar
Grandmaster Zach Whitson led a special seminar replicating the exact Doce Pares material that Senior Grandmaster Cacoy Canete taught during his first visit to our academy in 2006. It was a meaningful opportunity to revisit that experience with fresh eyes, deeper understanding, and years of growth since then.
Guest Mention
We welcomed guests from Arkansas, Florida, New York, Missouri, Ohio, and South Carolina, adding fresh perspectives and great energy to the weekend.
More Than Just Martial Arts
As always, the weekend was about more than just drills and techniques. It was about camaraderie, storytelling, and building bonds across generations. Students trained together, ate together, laughed together — and left with both new skills and new friendships.
Thank You to Everyone Who Made It Happen
We want to express our deepest gratitude to Grandmaster Zach Whitson. Thank you to the families who support their students’ training, to the alumni who came back to share, and to every camper who showed up with focus and heart.
You are the reason this camp continues to grow, inspire, and thrive.
Looking Ahead
While this year’s camp celebrated 20 years of Filipino Martial Arts in Pittsburgh, it also marked the start of an exciting new chapter. We’re more committed than ever to sharing and preserving the Filipino Martial Arts for future generations — and we can’t wait to see what the next 20 years will bring.
Until then, keep training, stay connected, and carry the spirit of the camp with you.