What’s it take to become the School of the Year?
A clear vision of what your dojo means to you and your community is where we started. Understanding that martial arts can help the youth 1st and then the adults will understand how it will benefit them as well. Knowing that starting with the youth you build a generation that understands RESPECT, as they are the future. A well built systems that respects tradition but embraces evolution and artistry, where quality is standard, and allow students to gain confidence on defending themselves.
When we found out that we were nominated we didn’t even know what the criteria was nor that we were even being considered. Sergeant of Arms and Texas State Director of the United States Martial Artist Association, Grand Master Matthew Antowiak’s nomination considered these points:
–Great dojo environment
– Very clean and safe
– Well taught classes
– Fun environment
– Control in sparring was observed in black belts and students alike
– Skills above average
– Very welcoming
– Clear curriculum established and followed
Not only did we receive the School of the Year award, two of ourBlack Belts were inducted in to the association’s Hall of Fame as well. Master Graig Presti for Instructor of the Year and Sensei Donald Brooks Jr. for Special Individual Achievement Award.
To usit’s been about building a culture where we can have fun but understand to work hard in order to achieve our goals. To help like minded families build confidence in themselves on levels that surpasses years in time as a foundation. Building leaders and holding them to accountable for building the success of others besides themselves. Helping families see the power of achieving goals together.
Is it easy?… No, but it’s taught us all to ask for help and to allow others to assist in our growth, building relationships, and bonds that will last a lifetime. Leading by example it what has been ingrained. We have build world champions in this dojo with this great community, there’s nothing we can’t achieve together. Our students, parents, and instructors all understand that. When you walk in our doors, when you listen to the lessons, when you watch the students or talk to the parents… you can just feel it and you know this place is doing something special.
– Sr. Master Nathaniel