Sensei Jason Melendez is a 3rd degree Black Belt and a senior instructor at Malandra's Martial Arts Center. Jason began his martial arts training at the age of 12, here at MMAC, under the direction of Shihan Don Malandra, Sensei Mike Malandra, and Master Phil Dunlap - mixed martial arts training. He also started boxing at 2 years old under the guidance of his father, a professional boxer. Sensei Jason is active in the competitive arena and received 2nd place honors at the Garden State Games and placed 1st in nearly every competition entered.

When not teaching, Jason Melendez works part-time in a physical therapy/sports conditioning center and at Stryker Orthopedics as a quality control specialist. While in college, Jason also worked as a Teacher's Assistant and has had extensive 1 on 1 experience with children suffering with Autism.

Jason is the oldest of 6 children and enjoys mixed martial arts training, running, working out, hiking, observing wildlife, learning new things, playing with his 2 dogs, watching the discovery channel and is a huge fan of Ultimate Fighting Championship.

In addition to his martial arts experience, Eric has been an instructor with REACT Programs since its inception in 2005. As an instructor, Eric assists Michael Malandra in teaching effective personal protection programs. REACT also provides fun, exciting interactive child safety lectures for children of all ages.  

Since 2006 Eric has been working full time as an Exercise and Conditioning Specialist for a large physical therapy and athletic training facility in Bergen County, NJ ― helping young and professional athletes to achieve maximum performance. In the past Eric has coached local youth basketball and hockey teams in his home town. Currently residing in Suffern, Eric enjoys applying all of his knowledge into his training, teaching, and lifestyle.