About Spectrum Defense Academy
Built on friendship, family, and the belief that the right training environment can help every student grow.
Our Story
Spectrum Defense Academy was founded by John Reilly and Nick Zabbatino, two lifelong martial artists brought together through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
The two first met on Nick’s very first day stepping onto the mats, when John was already a black belt, and their friendship has grown through years of training and shared experience.
How It Began
When John’s son Connor was born, John and Nick began working with him in a supportive training environment alongside Nick’s own children.
Through patience, structured movement, and martial arts fundamentals, Connor began showing encouraging signs of growth and confidence.
Those early experiences became the inspiration for what would eventually become Spectrum Defense Academy.
Built on Real Experience
Nick Zabbatino has spent years coaching young athletes, teaching kids martial arts and working with numerous youth sports teams. As a father of twins himself, he understands the importance of creating positive environments where children can learn, grow, and build confidence.
Nick continues to train and teach at Vanguard Academy under respected instructors Jason Rau and Nick Ronan, where the program continues to evolve through guidance and feedback from world-class martial artists.
Spectrum Defense Academy is built on friendship, family, and the belief that the right training environment can help every student grow stronger both on and off the mats.
What Spectrum Defense Academy Stands For
Friendship
Built on years of trust and shared experience.
Family
A positive environment where students feel supported.
Confidence
Helping every student believe in themselves.
Growth
Developing strength on and off the mats.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create a structured, encouraging martial arts environment where students can develop confidence, discipline, movement, focus, and personal growth through patient instruction and supportive coaching.
Start the Journey
Discover how structured martial arts training can help students build confidence, discipline, and strength.