Our boys Max (11) & Jaxon (7) began attending MTI in August of 2022. We contemplated this for awhile after the boys expressed interest earlier in the year. We did our research and asked for opinions from those in the area regarding where to go for training. Since joining MTI we have watched our boys grow healthier physically and emotionally while gaining greater self-confidence and self-control. They have become disciplined in their craft and have already reached personal goals in advancing their belt status and placing in their first tournament just two weeks ago. This organization is driven by the principle of Ho-shin which the students know represents “self-control before self-defense”. Self discipline, integrity, hard work, and personal accountability are core principles of the program where students are encouraged to apply these concepts to all areas of their life including academics, athletics, spirituality, and personal relationships. Nick and Ashley Slinkard are not only owners of the business, but act as leaders by modeling positive behaviors and as a support system for students and parents alike as they navigate personal challenges. While we value and participate in team sports, this experience has been completely different from anything we have been a part of previously. Our boys have had the pleasure of setting personal goals, learning another culture and craft, and learning that their outcome is directly proportional to their effort.
The MTI family is welcoming, the students and families are encouraging of one another, and all members demonstrate respect for not only one another, but personal property as well. I assure you that interactions with our participants would be respectful and positive. Should an something unexpectedly untoward occur, I can attest to the fact that this type of matter would be addressed promptly and would result in direct accountability as this is the standard set forth by those managing the program as well as all who choose to join this organization.
While television and movies can certainly be entertaining, it has been my experience that this is not always an accurate depiction of the martial arts and what occurs in the training room. We are not “Cobra Kai”. We do not blast loud music or seek out altercations in the streets. Our classroom environment is filled with discipline and respect for the craft.
What some of you may or may not know is that some of your neighbors are already proud members of MTI. You share space with these community members already and I anticipate that your interactions have been grossly positive. For those of us who live outside of this community, many of us share friends, family, and coworkers in this neighborhood. We have nothing but respect for our neighborhood and want to only add to the area in a positive way.
As a final thought, I would remind you that these students are the future leaders of our communities. The skills and discipline they are learning now will surely carry over as they transition toward adulthood and continue their commitment to the program. Those of us who are a part of MTI are here because we chose this program over others and have made a both a financial investment in and personal commitment to the development of our children as individuals and future responsible citizens.