about sonora san soo
Founded in 1993 by Master Rusty Wallace, Sonora San Soo has served the community for over three decades as a family-led martial arts school rooted in the San Soo lineage. What began as one instructor’s commitment to practical self-defense and strong character has grown into a multi-generational effort to carry that training forward.
Over the years, students from all walks of life have trained here. The school has produced eight Masters and sixteen Black Belts in Kung Fu San Soo — something we’re proud of — but what matters most to us is the steady growth we see in the people who walk through our doors.
leadership & continuity
Master Rusty Wallace remains actively involved in training and instruction. Although he no longer leads classes, he is regularly on the floor working one-on-one with students during lessons, drills, and work outs. With more than fifty years of experience in the art, his presence continues to guide the standard of training at the school.
Both of his sons, Justin and Brandon Wallace, began training as children and grew up on the training floor. Each went on to earn his Master’s Degree — Justin in 2007 and Brandon in 2016 — reflecting the long-term commitment and continuity that define Sonora San Soo.
Classes are led by Master Brandon Wallace, who assumed the role of Lead Instructor in 2019 and oversees curriculum and student development across all programs. Master Justin Wallace continues to train weekly, remaining an active presence within the school and reinforcing the generational foundation on which it was built.
3rd Degree Black Belt Dylan Standers assists with the Kids Program, helping maintain a structured, disciplined, and encouraging environment for younger students.
Together, instruction at Sonora San Soo reflects both legacy and progression — tradition carried forward through active, engaged training.
Master Brandon Wallace with newly promoted Yellow Belts.
3rd Degree Black Belt Dylan Standers Teaching a Bag Drill.
Master Rusty Wallace Leading a Lesson.
our approach to san soo
San Soo traces back to the teachings of Grand Master Jimmy H. Woo. Our direct lineage runs from Grand Master Woo to Grand Master Bill Lasiter, and from Grand Master Bill Lasiter to Master Rusty Wallace.
We have deep respect for that foundation. At the same time, we believe the art was meant to be understood and applied — not treated as a rigid set of rules. The purpose of training is not memorization, it is growth.
Grand Master Bill Lasiter often described the fundamentals as the “ABCs” of the system: once you understand the alphabet, you must learn how to form your own sentences. That philosophy continues to shape how we teach.
We maintain traditional elements such as forms, footwork, and salutes, but training is always centered on practical understanding and real-world application. The art is treated as something living — grounded in strong fundamentals and refined through experience.
training structure
Kids and adult classes are taught separately to ensure appropriate pacing and development. Within each class, belt levels are mixed, allowing students to learn from one another while progressing at their own pace.
Younger students are gradually introduced to controlled “work outs” (our version of sparring) as they mature in both skill and responsibility. Adult students are introduced earlier, reflecting the differences in development and accountability.
At every level, the focus remains on understanding how techniques work — not simply memorizing movements.
A Family-like environment
Master Rusty Wallace (left), Master Brandon Wallace (left-center), Master Russell Nystrom (right-center), Master Justin Wallace (right)
Training is taken seriously here, but the atmosphere is best described as family-like. Many students train for years, building friendships and strong relationships along the way. Having been built off of a father-sons dynamic, it’s only natural we’ve had father-son pairs train together, and today we have parents and children participating in classes at the same time.
Former Masters and long-time students occasionally return to visit, train, and share their experience — something we value deeply.
Consistency, respect, and shared effort are what define the culture of the school.
“A Family That Fights Together, Stays Together” - Master Rusty Wallace
our door is open
Choosing a martial arts school is a personal decision. If you’re curious about how we train or would like to see a class in action, we’d be glad to meet you and answer any questions you may have.
ready to get started?
Whether you’re looking for classes for your child or considering training yourself, we’re here to help you find the right fit.
We encourage prospective students to reach out ahead of time so we can be ready to welcome you into class.
Your first two classes are always free — come experience the training for yourself.