Rick Gonzales to be honored at the 2007 Academy of Masters Event for his Outstanding Achievements in the Martial Arts

Costa Mesa, CA July 31, 2007- It is the Academy of Masters distinct honor and pleasure to announce that Rick Gonzales has been selected by Masters Hall of Fame Board Member Shihan Robert Posslenzny for Recognition of Excellence into the 2007 Academy of Masters.

Rick Gonzales said he is honored to attend this prestigious event and accept his Award of Recognition at the 7th Annual Masters Hall of Fame and Awards event, being held at the Hilton Hotel and Resort in Costa Mesa California on Saturday August 11th, 2007.

Rick Gonzales was selected by the Masters Hall of Fame Board Member Robert Posslenzny for his continued Leadership and Devotion to the Martial Arts Community.

Rick began boxing at age 14 at youth athletic league in Lynwood CA. and is an experienced amateur Boxer. However Rick was introduced to Martial Arts Took several by LASD Deputies as an explorer where he began his training in Aikido, Kung Fu San Soo and Muay Thai Kickboxing.

Rick joined the University of Southern California Department of Public Safety where he was introduced to Shudokan Ryu Taiho Jutsu and earned his black belt. Rick is on the USC DPS Arrest and Control Instructor team that teach physical training and self defense classes to Department Members as well as teaching the Arrest and Control in the USC DPS explorer program. Rick continues his Martial Arts outreach with the USC sorority's by teaching basic self defense as well as personal awareness. Rick is also active in the Shudokan Ryu Dojo at USC and is an assistant instructor to Shihan Posslenzny.

Rick's is also a semi-pro athlete playing football for the California Blue Knights in the National Public Safety Football League, the revenue generated by the League raises money for a host of children's charities.

Rick's accomplishments do not end with athletics and Martial Arts; Rich is a leader in the University Community as well; Rick received the USC Shield of Excellence in 2003 for his community outreach with the USC and Surrounding Communities.

Officer or Sensei, Rick Gonzales continues to Teach, Mentor, Lead and Coach in the martial sprit to bring out the best in others. Rick continues to use his martial arts training to influence other in a positive way increasing the quality of life for everyone he is involved with.

For more information on the 2007 Masters Hall of Fame Awards Banquet, contact Daniel Hect at 951-538-9357 or visit www.mastershalloffame.com.