Our Team

JUNIdan LAURIE SHOVER, 12th Dan

Founder/Owner/Chief Instructor

Back in the 1980s, Junidan Shover, also known as just Master Shover, took a leap of faith and started her own dojo franchise in South Burlington. Master Shover started training with her brother when she was a teenager under Master Steve Shover, going on to earn her black belt under his instruction. Later on, she went on to train under the late Great-Grand Master Villari. Junidan Shover built Villari’s of Vermont from the ground up, fast forwarding to today where she has taught and guided thousands of martial artists on their journeys. From those humble beginnings to our ever-growing community it is now, our dojo owes its legacy to the unstoppable force that is Junidan Shover.

For decades, Junidan Shover has been more than just a martial arts instructor—she's been a guiding light, touching lives and leaving a lasting impact wherever she goes. Master Shover was recently promoted in 2023 to 12th (Junidan) Degree Master in the Shaolin Kempo system, making her one of the highest ranking women in our system. But her expertise doesn't stop at self defense; she's also a master in Chi Kung, the ancient Chinese practice of harnessing energy for health and vitality. When stepping into one of Juni Shovers classes, it's not just about learning self-defense or perfecting your form; it's about tapping into your inner power.

Alongside her mastery of Chi Kung, Junidan Shover doesn't just teach movements; she teaches a way of life. When students leave her classes, whether it is chi kung or karate, they not only feel stronger and more skilled, but also more connected to themselves and the world around them. Junidan Shover isn't just a martial arts instructor; she's a healer, a mentor, and a beacon here in our dojo. Her journey has been one of growth, discovery, empowerment, and she's dedicated her life to sharing that journey with others.

Master Darrel Duffy, 8th dan

Co-Owner/Chief Instructor/President of TGS Foundation

Master Darrel Duffy began his martial arts journey in 1995, under the teachings of Master Shover. It was during his training that his passion for both the martial arts and the art of teaching began. As he honed his skills under Master Shover, they began business partners, leading to the expansion and development of their dojo. Master Duffy started teaching in 1998, going on to become a full-time instructor by 2000. Through the years, Master Duffy has not only taught but mentored hundreds of kids, teens, and adults, instilling in them the values of discipline, respect, and perseverance.

With a vision for encouraging future leaders, Master Duffy initiated a youth leadership program within the dojo in the early 2000s. Through the decades, this program has continued to empower young students to not only teach and guide others but also to give back to their community. Additionally, Master Duffy's dedication to supporting military families stems from his service in the Vermont Air Guard. This personal connection led to the establishment of programs for Vermont National Guard Family Programs at the dojo, providing support through camps and programs since the late 2000s. Through his multifaceted approach to martial arts instruction and community engagement, Master Duffy continues to make a profound and lasting impact, both within the dojo and the broader community.

Master Taylor Duffy was basically born in the dojo, having her parents be Master Shover & Duffy. She officially started her training at the age of 3 in 2003 in the dojos first Little Dragons program for 3-5 year olds at the time. Growing up in the dojo environment, she observed her parents teaching and guiding students, finding a love for her training and the dojo at a young age.

Her passion for teaching emerged early, as she joined the leadership program at 7, eventually honing her teaching skills by taking over the Monkton After-school karate program from Master Duffy during her high school years, and teaching kids Saturday mornings through Leadership. Through the leadership program and teaching experiences, her desire to help others grew stronger, leading her to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in mental health, graduating from Southern New Hampshire University in 2022. After graduating, she has found her degree equips her with valuable insights and skills that directly benefit her teaching and guidance.

Now, as a 5th-degree master, Master Taylor is working to teach full-time, runs youth programs, and camps, embodying a commitment to the art, physical and mental well-being, as well as the empowerment of martial artists at Villari’s Self Defense Centers.

Master taylor duffy, 5th dan

Co-Owner/Head Instructor/Vice President of TGS Foundation

our team: instructors