His father began Boxing in the US Navy and continued to train after returning from World War II. In 1963 Terry began Boxing training, then in 1968 joined the first Karate studio in southern Indiana. The studio was started by Bob Lomax, Harry Schneinder, and Leo Fields who had practiced the Martial Arts in the service. Terry attended every class and became the caretaker of the studio. After becomin
g an Assistant Instructor in 1969, the studio was sold to the World Tae Kwon Do Group the same year. In 1971, Terry earned his first-degree Black belt and became a rotating Instructor at the Louisville, Jeffersonville, and Sellersburg studios. In 1972, Terry started his own studio in New Albany that has grown into the four-story school that it is today. Shortly after, Boxing was added to the format which became the beginning of Kickboxing in this area. Terry added other styles of Martial Arts to the format which makes his blended style more interesting and effective. Grand Master Jim Thomas presented Terry his 10th degree Black belt and was inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2013. Terry also celebrated his 50th school anniversary in August 2022. This milestone can only be boasted by two or three,(unlikely orginial owners), other Martial Arts schools in America! Terry participated in many competitions and promoted Karate tournaments, Kickboxing and Boxing matches. He has trained state, regional, national, and world Champions. In addition, he is a licensed Boxing promoter, Kickboxing and Boxing judge and referee. Holding countless ladies self-defense seminars, public exhibitions, and junior and senior high school clubs, Terry is well known and respected in the community and southern Indiana area. He has also produced ladies self-defense and Kickboxing workout videos. Terry has written two very interesting and informative books, "21 Martial Arts" & "Heavyweight Boxing Champions". Grand Master Terry Middleton is the highest ranked Martial Artist in this area and started training before most of the other studio or club leaders were born. Daily, you will find Terry actively training, teaching and sparring!
