About two years ago, my wife, son and I moved to the mentor area. Being new here, we thought it would be great to find an activity for our son to get involved with that would encourage physical activity and allow an opportunity for him to make new friends. Little did we know, nor had any idea, what to expect that day we walked through the doors of Mentor ATA, Black Belt Academy!

We were greeted and welcomed, not only by the friendly and professional staff, but by owners and trainers, Mr. Jason Gehring and Mr. Jason Ratay. It didn't take long; a matter of minutes, really, to know we found what we were looking for. We signed up for the month's special promotion which included a free uniform - (Great Deal), and so it began.

Soon Luke had made many new friends. A couple months had passed and it was time for testing; an exciting opportunity for students to advance in belt rank. At testing, parents, family & friends are encouraged to attend and watch, seated in the workout area. As you look around, you see a group of dedicated people, working, training, and playing together as a family, of which all this seems to be focused.

On the walls, close to the ceiling are words painted, some of which say leadership, respect, discipline, etc; Many of the values we hold close and want for our kids. Throughout the testing, you see that the studio implements professional standards, while having a great time, that is second to none, and in part, probably has something to do with earning them being one of the top 10 studio's in all of ATA Nationwide. You can see on the faces of the students a look of success and confidence, as they are awarded their new belts.

Now, let's talk about an aspect of the sport that is really exciting - "Tournaments!" This is where the student can travel to different states for competitions per rankings and age groups. Over the past two years, we have attended, and Luke has competed in many. Here is where the rubber meets the road in so many ways. It tests your skills, yes, but there is much more - The people. Here you will find, basically what you have in the studio. It's like a gigantic family atmosphere, full of fun, energy, and good sportsmanship. Kids and parents alike make new friendships and enjoy the fellowship, not to mention the travel fun to different places.

There are opportunities to become a state champion, and maybe someday, even a world champion in your division, which is another strong part of ATA's goal setting example. And for the Tiny Tigers, (ages 3-6) there are always trophies awarded!

Over the past two years, we have watched our son, along with the rest of the group, grow, develop, learn, focus, work hard, and implement set skills that not only apply to life in general, but could make a big difference in the outcome of your day, should someone try to assault you, and, in turn, would have to defend yourself.

I'd like to also say the fact that programs are designed for all age groups and abilities with no high pressure tactics - It's very user friendly, so to speak. Heck - I myself have joined up. It's been great. I looked at my 50/50 proposition; Fast approaching 50 and close to 50 pounds overweight. So far, I've lost some of the weight, and have gained flexibility and muscle tone. I have made many new friends that are just great folks, in and out of the studio, just like Luke has, as mentioned before.

In closing, let me encourage you to stop in for a visit. Look the rest of the web page over and read the other success stories for yourself. Come on out and meet the people here, and see what Mentor ATA has to offer. You won't be disappointed!

This success story is about not only my family's involvement in tae kwon do, it is also a story of the success of the Mentor ATA Black Belt Academy.

When my oldest son, Will, agreed to try tae kwon do, my wife and I signed him up for his free month. We were looking for an activity that would provide him with a little more self-confidence. After his first month, we continued his membership, but only on a month-to-month basis. We did not sign him up for a longer term for two reasons: I wasn't sure he would stick with the program and I wasn't sure that this business would last due to the newness in the area. Over four years later, my oldest son is a second degree black belt and the school not only continues to operate but had to move into a larger facility due the increased enrollment. I would attribute both of these accomplishments to the owners and instructors Mr. Jason Gehring and Mr. Jason Ratay. After a just a couple of months I knew these two instructors not only knew what they were doing but that they also enjoyed teaching. Will's self-confidence has grown over the four years, again a tribute to the school's instructors and Will's hard work and dedication.

In the four years since beginning tae kwon do, not only has Will continued the program but my youngest son and I have also joined. Vinnie, was enrolled to provide a little discipline and I joined for the physical activity. As a family, we have traveled to regional tournaments in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Michigan. We have also traveled to Orlando and Las Vegas for national tournaments. Over the four years, nothing has made me prouder than to watch the two boys compete to the best of their ability. The end result is not stressed because to compete is to win. The members of the School cheer each other on at tournaments, encourage each other in class and during testing and get together socially. I would highly recommend tae kwon do and the Mentor ATA Black Belt Academy to everyone.

Becoming a member of the Mentor ATA and Karate for Kids has been the best thing I have done for myself in a long time.

I was an unfit, overweight stay at home mom of 2, fast approaching 40. My then 5 year old daughter had been asking me to start her in Karate for over a year. Eventually I enrolled her, and she has enjoyed it tremendously from the very first class. She has become stronger, more agile, even more enthusiastic about life, and her abilities in other sports activities have increased dramatically.

So when I had the opportunity to try a few classes, with no obligation, I thought why not? I had never had the slightest desire to learn Taekwondo or self defense and so approached classes with a totally open mind.

What I found in class were professional, fun, highly trained instructors, who teach people from all backgrounds, all levels of fitness and all levels of experience, in a patient and easy to understand way.

Taekwondo is an exciting and exhilarating sport to be involved in. Your co-ordination and balance increase, your muscles get stronger and firmer, and the mental challenge of learning new ways to move is very rewarding.

I was motivated to lose that extra 15lbs in weight that gradually creeps up on you, and became more committed to a healthy lifestyle.

My 11 year old son has also recently started taking Taekwondo and loves the fun and excitement of the classes. He is determined to try his best, because the instructors inspire each child with their own enthusiasm and ability to be positive role models.

I would say to anyone thinking of starting Taekwondo classes, try it, what do you have to lose? You will be amazed at what you have to gain.

My first reaction to my husband’s insistence that our oldest son join a karate class was, "What does he need to learn to kick, punch and yell for, it all seems so silly to me." It only took one class at the Karate for Kids in Mentor to change my mind. I realized that this school was much more than just kicking, punching and yelling. It's about learning respect, perseverance, setting and achieving goals, self-discipline and a whole lot more. We noticed a difference in our son immediately. His self esteem soared. His homework was being done without having to be asked. His grades improved. Family and friends commented on how courteous our son was.

We were so impressed with how much the Karate for Kids school improved our oldest son’s life, we immediately signed up our middle son. Our youngest son joined the Tiny Tiger program the day after he turned four. I never thought he would be able to sit still for 10 minutes let alone 30 minutes. But he did. And he continues to do so. The instructors do a great job with the kids. Karate also gives the boys a great physical workout. Like many children their age, our boys love the video games, TV and the computer. It’s good to see them love a physical activity, such as karate, just as much. It’s been four years since our sons first started here at Karate for Kids and they still love coming to karate class. It doesn’t happen very often but I guess my husband was right and I was wrong. Signing our sons up for karate was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made.

My two oldest daughters have been going to Mentor Karate for Kids for 4 years now and they both love it! Danielle really enjoys helping others in class. She has a lot of patience and shows great leadership skills. Alex has so much discipline and determination to be the absolute best she can be. In June, they will compete in the Top 10 Competition for Sparring at the World Championships in Arkansas because of hard work, dedication, perseverance, and awesome instructors.

My two younger daughters started Taekwondo in January. We have noticed that Larissa has more self-confidence and Faith has become more outgoing. Sometimes they will even quote their instructors with different lessons they have learned in class such as showing kindness towards others and having courtesy and respect.

We have made many new friends through the ATA locally and out of state. We have been able to travel to many tournaments and it has been a wonderful experience for each one of us. The instructors at Mentor Karate for Kids know how to make class fun no matter what the age is.

Since our daughter Ashley joined Mentor Karate for Kids, she has become much more self-confident. She has learned to set goals, and is so proud when she achieves them. Karate has also helped develop her coordination, memory, and social skills. The instructors make her and each child feel special, and they continually relate their practices of respect and self-discipline to school and home. She has also made some good friends!

My three sons and husband began classes here at the Mentor ATA Black Belt Academy in early of 2002. It looked like so much fun, I wanted to join too. My problem was that I was too afraid. I felt I was too overweight and too out of shape to participate. For two years I waited figuring I'd get myself in shape first and then join. Two years went by and that didn't happen. I finally got tired of watching everyone else do what I wanted to do. I got my nerve up one day and asked for a uniform. That was January of 2004. I will admit to being very scared the day of my first class, but the instructors and my fellow classmates made me feel at ease. I actually had fun! It wasn't long after that first class I was coming to class as much as I could. I couldn't get enough! For the first time in a long time I was doing something good for myself and having fun too!

It wasn't long before my health started to drastically improve. The pounds started coming off and I felt myself getting stronger. My back, which I've had life-long problems with, never felt better. My knees didn't hurt anymore. I started gaining more self-confidence. On top of all that, I found that coming to class was a great stress relief for me as well. I always felt better after coming to class.

I never truly appreciated how much practicing Taekwondo had done for me until early this year. Shortly after I received my first degree black belt in February of 2006, I had to take some time off due to an injury (unrelated to Taekwondo) and a subsequent surgery. The recovery from surgery was easy. It was the inactivity during that time that hurt me the most. Some of the weight I had lost came back. My back, which hadn't bothered me in two years, started hurting again. I will admit my self confidence was shaken a little too. I was so happy when I was able to come back to class. I am still not 100% but I am making progress every day. I have no intention of giving up. Perseverance is the key. I've set goals for myself and I know I will make them. If I had to change one thing, I wouldn't have waited so long to ask for a uniform. As it turns out, that was the best thing I have ever done for myself.

At age 5, our son was having a little trouble focusing. We decided to sign him up for karate when we saw the ATA ad promoting improved concentration, better grades, etc. That was 3 years ago, and what an awesome experience it has been, and continues to be! Collin is now a 1st Degree Black Belt at age 8, and is very proud of his karate accomplishments. His desire to please his instructors provides great motivation to succeed, and his ability to focus has greatly improved. He has learned a lot about respect and self control, and the positive effect on his school experience has been amazing!

After watching her brother in karate for the first year, Collin's big sister decided she'd like to give it a try. Kylie is 11 years old and has been in the Karate for Kids program for almost 2 years, and it is now her main activity/focus. She has excelled even more than we could have hoped, and thoroughly enjoys the ATA atmosphere! She has developed friendships within her classes and with the instructors, and we often have to drag her away when she has spent hours helping in other classes!!

The main benefit that is apparent from our experience with ATA has been the confidence we see in our children; they feel good about themselves and their performance and it is an awesome thing for a parent to see. The instructors at Mentor ATA are phenomenal -- they have such respect for and take such time with the children, and they encourage their success. We're so glad we made that first appointment!