Contact Combat was developed through the work of experienced practitioners with backgrounds in self-defense and high-risk environments. The system was shaped by the need for practical, reliable solutions in unpredictable situations.

Over time, it has been refined into a structured training method that emphasizes efficiency, adaptability, and performance under pressure. Every aspect of training is designed to translate directly to real-world application.

Built on real-world application, Contact Combat focuses on what holds up when timing, stress, and resistance are factors. The system is designed for civilian training, with a clear progression that develops fundamentals first, followed by more advanced skills.

Its lineage is grounded in practical experience and continued evolution—not tradition, theory, or performance. The focus remains the same: simple, effective training that prepares individuals to respond decisively when it matters most.

Imi Lichtenfeld > Haim Zut > Rhon Mizrachi > Katrina Kothe-Reynolds

Katrina Kothe-Reynolds

"Kat" began her Contact Combat training in 1995 in New York City. She obtained her instructor certification in a 1998 instructor course that was administered by Haim Zut and certified by the Wingate Institute and Krav Maga International-Kapap. Ms. Reynolds received her black belt (Dan 1) in 2001, the first woman ever to receive the honor. In 2008, Kat earned her black belt (Dan 2) conferred by Grandmaster Haim Zut and esteemed members of the Professional Committee in Israel; including Meni Mehabad and Uri Rafaeli. This accomplishment stands as a testament to her dedication and unwavering commitment to mastering martial arts.

Ms. Reynolds established her own school in Salt Lake City in 2005 and has over 25 years of experience teaching! She is dedicated to honoring her direct lineage and third generation status by continuing to follow Contact Combat principles. Her Contact Combat SLC school provides the highest level of Contact Combat authenticity in Utah, and her teaching ensures that the true art is passed on to future students and generations.

Kat is a dedicated and passionate educator. When not teaching on the mats, she can be found outdoors, enjoying adventures on anything with wheels or planks; embracing the true joy of exploration!

Samuel Gonzalez

"Sam" understands from personal experience the significance of readiness and the necessity for effective self-defense techniques that are accessible to everyone, regardless of shape, size, or age.

His journey into martial arts began in the United States Marine Corps, an experience that sparked a lifelong passion. After deploying overseas as a high threat personal security specialist in high-conflict areas, the urgency to constantly be in a state of mental and physical readiness continued to grow.

Sam had begun his training with renowned masters and instructors when he met and started training under Katrina Reynolds in 2009. Contact Combat and Kat's instruction matched his spirit animal. This discipline resonated deeply with him, mirroring his resilience and tenacity.

Sam has enjoyed learning alongside and coaching many ambitious people at Contact Combat SLC. As a training partner and instructor, he has helped them develop confidence along with skills in Contact Combat as they refine their technique, control, speed, accuracy, and intent, always making safety the number one priority. He firmly believes in balance and has trained in Muay Thai, Kali, and he loves to practice Tai Chi, Yoga, and Meditation. He also finds absolute enjoyment and peace hiking in the mountains.

Matthew Tice

"Matt" has been practicing Contact Combat since 2012 where he's always finding something fresh and exciting to work on. He's a bit of a computer nerd and can't believe that people pay him to mess around with computers all day. He likes doing skeet shooting, hobby electronics, and riding motorcycles. He's traveled around the country and internationally several times where he discovered that the best vacation is the vacation where he rides his motorcycle in strange new lands.

Matt is currently living in Salt Lake City with his fantastic wife and two dogs; Chainsaw and Lemon. He's also, apparently a fan of weird dog names. When he's not busy training Contact Combat, he's out riding his motorcycle, looking for adventure.

Danielle Donaldson

"Danielle" began her Contact Combat training in 2009, signing up for a Contact Combat class as an elective offered at The University of Utah. Danielle graduated with a degree in environmental studies and continued her training with Katrina Reynolds. In addition to Contact Combat, Danielle has trained and competed in Muay Thai, MMA, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. She holds a Blue Belt (2 stripes) in BJJ and is also a certified Yoga Instructor/RYT500. Balancing intense training with care and recovery of the body/mind is a priority in her teaching. As a Contact Combat instructor, Danielle hopes to empower individuals to train hard and develop the skills and confidence to fight back when necessary. 

Danielle loves traveling and has visited many different countries, several of which she has participated in BJJ training camps to combine the love of travel and of martial arts. Aside from training and yoga, Danielle enjoys hiking, concerts, and getting outside. She lives in Salt Lake City with her dog; Ashi.

Contact Combat is a self-defense system designed for individuals who want practical, immediately applicable skills. It serves both those new to training and experienced practitioners looking to sharpen and expand their capabilities.

The focus is simple: effectiveness under pressure. Training is built to prepare individuals to respond to real-world threats with clarity, speed, and control. The system emphasizes simplicity, adaptability, and efficiency—what works when it matters most.

• Avoid injury
• Devise drills that take advantage of natural reflexes
• Defend and attack in the minimum time required
• Attack the human body's vulnerable spots
• Use the body's natural weapons as well as ordinary objects that may be close at hand
• No Rules

Contact Combat develops awareness and vigilance, improving the ability to recognize and respond to potential threats. Training builds physical conditioning, strength, and resilience, along with the confidence to act decisively in high-stress situations.

For many, it becomes more than training—it becomes a disciplined approach to personal safety, responsibility, and preparedness. It becomes a way of life.