Andy Lengefeld

Born in Sioux Falls South Dakota, Shifu Lengefeld had the privilege of living in Japan during his childhood as a missionary kid being immersed in the Japanese culture and traditions. Joining the local Budokan (Martial Arts Hall) at the age of 14, studied several styles of Karate before achieving a Black Belt in Aikido. After moving back to South Dakota in 1999, Shifu Lengefeld began studying Xún Bā Bù Táng Láng Quán (荀八步螳螂拳) and Xún Tài Jí Quán (荀太極拳) in Vermillion under the tutelage of Master Kevin Loftus 荀地龍 (Xún Dì Lóng). Eager to learn this unique and exclusive system, moves to Vermillion a year later and starts his indoor training full-time. After 2 years of hard training, endless drills and memorization, passes the National Shifu certification exam along with 9 other candidates. Since then, Shifu Lengefeld has taught 8 Step Preying Mantis Boxing at several martial arts Schools in Sioux Falls and continues to teach this "Huge" system at Master Kevin's school while refining his own techniques. In addition to martial arts, Shifu Lengefeld has begun his study of Martial Medicine (Abimoxi). As of 2020, Shifu Lengefeld holds the rank of 四段 (Sì duàn), 4th degree black belt in the Shyun System.

In 2024, his student Steven Thum along with Master Kevin's guidance, diligently completes the instructors program and joins the ranks of Shifu. Thus passing on this ancient art to the next generation.