THE TEAM
Grand Master Jeff "Hanshi" Bonugli - Owner
Professor Jeff Bonugli is a true pioneer in the world of martial arts, with a legacy built on over 50 years of relentless passion, mastery, and dedication. Holding a prestigious 10th-degree black belt in Soryu Karate and a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Professor Bonugli has spent decades shaping the landscape of martial arts in Texas and beyond.
His journey began in 1974 in his hometown of New Braunfels, Texas, where a young Jeff first stepped onto the mats and discovered his life’s calling. What followed has been a lifetime of extraordinary achievement — from multiple IBJJF World Masters Championship titles to his induction into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame. But more than trophies or accolades, it’s been his love for the art, the people, and the transformative power of training that has defined his path.
Driven by a vision to create something meaningful for his community, Professor Bonugli founded Family Jiu Jitsu Karate in Cuero, Texas. His goal was simple yet profound: to build a place where students of all ages and walks of life could train hard, grow stronger, and discover the best versions of themselves. Under his leadership, Family Jiu Jitsu Karate has blossomed into a powerhouse of personal development, competitive success, and deep-rooted community spirit.
Whether he’s coaching Soryu Karate, Jiu-Jitsu or MMA classes, or simply offering his wisdom and support, his commitment to the Family Jiu Jitsu Karate community continues to inspire everyone who steps through our doors.
At the heart of it all is a simple truth: Professor Bonugli’s lifelong dedication to martial arts isn’t just about fighting or winning — it’s about building character, fostering resilience, and lifting others up. His legacy is forever woven into the fabric of Family Jiu Jitsu Karate, and his example reminds us every day why we train, why we push forward, and why we never stop growing.
Rokudan Samuel Cholico - Senior Karate Instructor
Master Sammy Cholico is a highly respected martial artist with over 55 years of experience in So-Ryu Karate and Kodokan Judo. He holds a 6th Degree Black Belt in So-Ryu Karate and a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Kodokan Judo, reflecting a lifetime of dedication to the martial arts.
Throughout his distinguished career, Master Cholico has earned a reputation not only for his technical excellence but also for his commitment to building strong, confident, and disciplined students. His accomplishments were recognized nationally in 2023 when he was inducted into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame and honored as "Master of the Year."
In addition to his personal achievements, Master Cholico has been deeply involved in the martial arts community for decades, serving as a member of the Texas Soryu Karate Association and the United Martial Arts Association. His leadership, experience, and passion for the arts have made him a mentor to countless martial artists across Texas and beyond.
At Family Jiu Jitsu in Cuero, Texas, Master Cholico plays a vital role as a Senior Instructor, helping to shape the next generation of martial artists. His teaching philosophy centers around the belief that martial arts training is about far more than learning techniques—it is about building character, fostering respect, and developing the resilience needed to succeed in all areas of life.
Master Cholico’s lifelong dedication to martial arts continues to inspire students of all ages, creating a positive, challenging, and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
Rokudan Tinker Bonugli - Karate Instructor
Sensei Tinker Bonugli is a 6th Degree Black Belt in Soryu Karate with over 30 years of dedicated martial arts experience. Throughout her career, she has trained extensively alongside Jeff Bonugli and Samuel Cholico. Sensei Tinker's deep technical knowledge, powerful presence, and commitment to the art have earned her a reputation for excellence both on and off the mat.
Today, she proudly shares her passion for martial arts with the next generation, helping to teach students in Cuero, Texas at Family Jiu Jitsu Karate, where she continues to inspire others through her skill, discipline, and love for the sport.