Maximize Your Potential with Victory

“My desire to take care of myself, be more confident around others and not be bullied made me join the martial arts world in the first place,” Master Espinosa starts his story. “I was a young, impressionable kid seeking social acceptance with no strong direction,” says Master Espinosa. “Martial arts provided tools that navigated my life's journey with integrity, physical and mental strength, and an unquenchable appetite to win and succeed!” He has been teaching for more than 30 years now and has a 7th Degree Black Belt. “The thing I love the most about my job is seeing parents' joy and pride witnessing their kids overcome adversity and experience a level of personal victory,” he explains. But reaching goals is not an easy task. That way, one of the most valuable lessons students learn at Victory is the importance of small victories. “We teach them the habits of success-starting with simply believing in yourself to then reaching your highest potential!” says Master Espinosa. “We also help them develop healthy habits of structure and personal discipline to make responsible choices. They realize that learning discipline can be fun!”

Mrs. Master Von Schmeling has been teaching martial arts for more than 25 years and holds a 7th Degree Black Belt. “Martial arts gave me the confidence to go after what I want, the discipline to persevere and the emotional regulation I needed,” says Mrs. Master Von Schmeling. “But above it all, I met the love of my life.” She started training at the age of 12. “I was a very hyperactive child, and when I was 12 years old I was going to a psychologist, who recommended me to do an activity with my dad,” she continues. “As he used to take martial arts when he was younger, that was his choice.” She truly loves teaching martial arts at Victory. “I don’t know any other organization that dedicates so much time and resources in training their staff,” explains Mrs. Master Von Schmeling. “Plus, the leadership and caring of Chief Master Von Schmeling towards the team members reflects on how they take care of their students.” One of the things she loves the most about her job is witnessing the positive effect martial arts has on her students by being around them and their families. “Martial arts gives my students the tools they need to develop stronger physical, social and emotional skills,” she says. “I always want to make sure students learn something they can apply in their lives, have a great physical workout, practice discipline and have tons of fun.”

The positive influence of martial arts goes far beyond one individual. And sometimes, love for martial arts runs through the whole family. “My father had done martial arts and got me involved,” says Master Aguilar. “And also, I used to watch Ninja Turtles and Power Rangers as a kid.” Love for martial arts changed Master Aguilar’s life. “It’s given me the confidence to tackle any obstacle and the courage to have higher aspirations,” adds Master Aguilar. He has been teaching for more than 20 years now and holds a 7th Degree Black Belt. Students love the structured atmosphere of his classes because they are not only energetic and engaging, but also super fun. But training in martial is so much more than having fun while learning different techniques. “Martial arts has a positive influence on families,” says Master Aguilar. “It teaches kids the importance of having the self-discipline to make the right choices. And most importantly, it helps children understand that they have the potential to be great.”

Master Wilson has been teaching martial arts for more than 30 years now and holds a 7th Degree Black Belt. When growing up, he wanted to be like martial arts actors and that was what made him interested in coming to his first class. “For almost 35 martial arts has been a steady relationship in my life, “ says Master Wilson. “My path was set a long time ago. While others were still figuring out what they wanted, I was able to embrace what was God given and natural at an early age”. He loves his job for many reasons. “I love the smile students give me when I impact their life the right way. That long lasting bond you create lasts no matter how old they become,” explains Master Wilson. But that long lasting bond is created with parents and teachers too. “We give parents another tool to help sharpen their child’s attitude and fitness level,” says Master Wilson. “We give the teachers the support they need by having another figure that teaches the same core values the school systems incorporate.” That’s why martial arts has strong impact on students' lives and helps them thrive both in school and life.

As so many of us, Master Indalos wanted to improve himself physically and mentally. This led him to discover the world of martial arts. “Training martial arts has pushed me harder physically, mentally and changed my mindset to a teacher's mindset,” says Master Indalos. He has been teaching for more than a year and a half now. “I love teaching kids and helping them learn in a fun way.” And he does that in the unique atmosphere of his classes that helps kids build determination and a desire for learning. “One of the most valuable lessons children learn in my classes is to always keep trying and learning, not only from their mistakes but from others' mistakes as well,” adds Master Indalos. “For me, training martial arts is the best way to strengthen our bodies. It also teaches us how to defend ourselves and the ones we love.” And learning martial arts at Victory has some additional benefits. “ We help our students by teaching them how to create good habits,” explains Master Indalos.

Master Brian Davidson has been teaching martial arts for 35 years now and holds a 7th Degree Black Belt. Like many kids, Karate Kid was his biggest inspiration for joining the martial arts world. And to say he loves his job isn’t enough. “Basically, I get to do what I’m passionate about, so it’s not really a job,” explains Master Davidson. “It’s like floating on a cloud. I am present and in the moment with my students. It’s my favorite place to be in the world.” And this is also the most valuable lesson kids learn in his classes. “Students learn to be all in! To let go and enjoy the moment,” he says. Martial Arts has changed his life completely and made him the man he is today. “It taught me to be a leader from a young age and gave me the structure I needed.” It’s amazing to be able to witness the effects of the lessons kids learn in his martial arts classes. “There are two important lessons kids learn: caring and accountability,” explains Master Davidson. “First your martial arts instructor checks in, and it shows that they care. Then that turns into accountability. It’s important for children to have someone other than their parents caring about academics and life outside of their martial arts,” concludes Master Davidson.

“Martial arts changed my life by making me a confident, strong person who loves themselves and wants the best for others,” Master Chambers starts her story. But she wasn’t always full of confidence. “I joined the martial arts world because my parents wanted an activity that would help boost my confidence and self-esteem,” she explains. “My brother started training first and when I saw class I couldn’t wait to start too.” She has been teaching for more than 20 years now, has a 6th Degree Black Belt, and she adores her job. “I love being able to make an impact on so many people’s lives. From students, to the team, and beyond,” says Master Chambers. “I find it so fulfilling to be able to help others.” She also stresses the difference that martial arts makes in her students' lives. “Martial arts help children have more focus and motivation to do well in school and life,” she says. “The tangibility of earning stripes because of good behavior at home and school is a motivational tool to bring out the best in children.” And Victory uses martial arts as an avenue to help improve students’ confidence and discipline. “I believe Victory is one of the few schools out there that focuses on self-improvement on purpose. You also can’t find a community like the Victory community where everyone feels like they are on a team,” explains Master Chambers.

Master Souffrant has been teaching martial arts for more than 17 years now and holds a 6th Degree Black Belt. “Martial arts have changed my life,” he says. “It made me who I am today.” He loves his job for numerous reasons, but the biggest one is the team he found here in Victory. “What separates Victory from other martial arts schools is our culture,” he adds. And Victory culture is one of the reasons why so many kids love training martial arts with us, because it makes our classes unique. “My classes are all about discipline,” explains Master Souffrant. And we make discipline fun! “Martial arts helps kids both in school and life,” says Master Souffrant. “It helps them deal with day to day challenges and adventures. Therefore, one of the most valuable things children can learn in my classes are important life skills,” finishes Master Souffrant.

Master Chat has been teaching martial arts for more than 38 years and has a 6th Degree Black Belt. His love for old school kung-fu movies was his biggest motivation to join the martial arts world. “One of the things I love the most about my job is creating a positive impact in students and communities,” says Master Chat. “And Victory is different from other martial arts schools,” says Master Chat. “People come for the training, but stay for the community.” But there’s more to Victory than community. “Victory Life Skills form the solid foundation, and the community creates the confidence and security of having consistent support in their lives,” explains Master Chat. “The hashtag #Victoryforlife evolved from the instructors and their commitment to helping their students and communities. And the empowerment through our life skills programming is one of the most valuable benefits for our students.”

Master Parrish has been teaching martial arts for more than 45 years and holds a 7th degree Black Belt. He fell in love with martial arts by accident, when one of his friends took him to the class. Since then, martial arts has completely changed his life. “In my younger days I would change jobs, move to different cities, thinking it would be better somewhere else,” starts his story Master Parrish. “But no matter where you go, there you are. Stability and discipline are two of the most important traits I have taken from Martial Arts.” These are the lessons he wants his students to learn. “One of the most valuable lessons kids get from my classes is how to have the self-discipline and confidence to persevere no matter how difficult something may seem,” explains Master Parish. “The life skills and leadership skills we teach carry over into their everyday life. The lessons we teach and instill are not just for sometimes, they’re for all the time.” And this is why Victory is unique. “Victory is always evolving and setting the standards high in the Martial Arts industry. We’re progressive in thought and traditional in values,” adds Master Indalos.

Master Lindsy Pederson has been teaching martial arts for more than 18 years and holds a 6th Degree Black Belt. She loves her job because of the opportunity to help kids and families become the best version of themselves. Her classes are fun and full of energy while she teaches discipline and respect for others. “I have always known that Victory instills life long positive habits in children,” says Master Pederson. “Now I get to watch my daughter and eventually my son in classes and see her develop and better her discipline. Her bravery and courage to try new things is amazing,” she explains. And this is the true power of martial arts. It helps families bond even more. “I first joined the martial arts world as a kid,” says Master Pederson.” My younger brothers were brown belts when my mom and I went to our first class with them for Mother’s Day. After that class she asked my dad, my sister and me if we wanted to join them. And we all decided to become white belts together.” She always knew she'd become a teacher. But being a teacher at Victory is something else. “Victory is such an amazing community! Across the nation we are bonded together- Victory for Life!”

Master Scott has been teaching martial arts for more than 20 years and holds a 6th Degree Black Belt. His desire for connection made him join the martial arts world in the first place, but he stayed because martial arts changed his life through discipline and gave him a sense of purpose. “One of the things I love the most about my job is the opportunity to teach people to love themselves,” says Master Scott. “Students train to become the best version of themselves while inspiring and encouraging others to reach their goals as well.” Victory is different from other martial arts schools. “We make discipline fun,” explains master Scott. And that’s one of the most valuable lessons kids learn in his classes. “Martial arts help children thrive in school and life because it teaches them that through discipline anything can be accomplished,” says Master Scott. “We can do anything we set our minds to.”

Master O’Hara has been teaching martial arts for more than 22 years and has a 6th Degree Black Belt. He loves his job because it gives him an opportunity to see the change in his students when they achieve something that maybe was difficult for them at first. “It isn’t about the techniques but the confidence they earn,” explains Master O’Hara. “They see that their discipline helped them reach their goals.” And discipline is an essential part of success. “If children learn at a young age what discipline is and how to apply it, then their grades start to improve, their listening skills increase, and they learn much more than they ever could,” says Master O’Hara. Another important lesson kids learn at Victory is the true power of confidence. “The confidence to try new things and to take intelligent risks. Being confident isn’t just saying you can, it’s truly believing that you can,” continues Master O’Hara. “That is why most of our students will grow up to become successful in any area of life.” But discipline and confidence aren’t what makes Victory different from other martial arts schools. It’s the delivery of Life Skills. “ We connect every technique with a Life Skill,” explains Master O’Hara. “Also, our instructors and their ability to deliver the lessons in a fun, structured way to increase effectiveness and make discipline fun is another reason why Victory is unique.”

Master Pederson started training martial arts because he wanted to spend more time with his brother. “It soon became my life’s passion,” he says. “It also has helped me gain confidence, strength and discipline.” He has been teaching for more than 19 years now and has a 6th Degree Black Belt! One of the things he loves the most about his job is seeing the positive impact martial arts can make in the lives of his students. “One of the most valuable lessons children learn in my classes is how to be confident, strong-physically and mentally, and love who they are!” But that’s just the cherry on top!“ Training at Victory Martial Arts can be a beneficial activity for children in both school and life. In school, martial arts training can improve focus and concentration, leading to better performance in the classroom, ” explains Master Pederson. “It can also help children develop discipline, respect, and self-control, which can translate into better behavior in school. In addition, martial arts can improve physical coordination and strength, which can help children excel in physical education classes and other sports.” “In life, martial arts can help children develop confidence and self-esteem, as well as important social skills such as teamwork and communication. It can also provide children with a sense of accomplishment and give them tools to handle difficult situations and conflicts,” says Master Pederson.

Master Black has been teaching martial arts for more than 17 years and holds a 6th Degree Black Belt. “I first joined the martial arts world because I wanted to get away from the wrong crowd, focus on fitness and improve my confidence,” starts Master Black. “But training martial arts has changed everything in my life. I met my wife through Victory, gained confidence and health,” explains Master Black. “I also created meaningful relationships with students and other victory team members.” His students learn some valuable life skills in his classes. “Victory is different from other martial arts schools. We teach important life skills, have an outstanding community and have a high level of professionalism,” says Master Black. “One of the most valuable things students learn in my class is how to have more discipline while also having fun. Victory Littleton maintains a high level of structure in each class while reinforcing our victory life skills and having fun. We also teach them to be leaders in their social circles, not followers,” finishes Master Black.

Master Moore has been teaching for more than 18 years and holds a 6th Degree Black Belt. “I joined the martial arts world because I had a desperate need for discipline,” Master Moore starts his story. And that has changed his life. “Martial arts taught me everything I know about holding myself to a high standard and working for my goals,” says Master Moore. He loves teaching people how to succeed. “Martial arts teaches my students that working hard and doing your best is the most fun,” he explains. “And one of the most valuable lessons students learn in my class is the power of Yes, I can mindset.” His classes are fun but challenging. “An optimal challenge regardless of age or ability,” says Master Moore. “That’s how I’d describe my classes.”

“I first joined martial arts world because my parents thought it would improve my listening skills and my confidence,” says Master Hopkins. “Now I realize that martial arts has bettered my life in every aspect physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally.” He has been teaching for more than 17 years and has a 6th Degree Black Belt. “One of the things I love the most about my job is that I can help families train together,” says Master Hopkins. And being able to witness how martial arts affects his students is priceless. “One of the most valuable lessons children learn in my class is the ability to direct all senses and energy towards improvement and progressing towards specific outcomes,” explains Master Hopkins. “Martial arts helps kids feel they are held to a higher standard and that someone other than their parents and teachers are holding them accountable for their actions.” In Victory kids learn while having fun. “In every class we sweat, learn, and have fun. The combination of structure, emotion, and knowledge helps the lesson of the life skill be received whether the person is taking class or spectating,” finishes Master Hopkins.

Master Catlin has been teaching for more than 20 years and holds a 6th Degree Black Belt. “My husband and older daughter started training together when she was 4,” starts Master Catlin. “When my younger daughter turned 4, it was our turn to join them in training. Since then, martial arts has given me the opportunity to take my personal values and strengths and put them to the best use, passing along my life lessons to the younger generations.” And she truly loves working with her students. “I love what the students are learning in class - to be confident, structured, physically active, and supportive of each other,” explains Master Catlin. “Every day I get to work with students and watch as they grow and strive to become leaders, each in their own way.” “At Victory, it’s not just about the “kicking and punching.” It’s about helping our students learn to set and achieve goals, overcome obstacles, and maximize their potential - and then help others do the same.” Martial arts helps her students thrive both in school and life by teaching confidence and discipline. This prepares them to tackle and overcome challenges that come their way. But that’s not even the most valuable lesson her students learn. “I love the details, and pass these along to students,” says Master Catlin. “Students will learn the importance of fitness in any of my classes, and they always leave having worked out hard and learned something new. I hope to encourage them to always challenge themselves, and remind everyone that it’s never too late to start something new (since I started training later in life).”

“I was bullied as a kid and my parents wanted me to stand up for myself,” says Master Singer. But it didn’t take long for Master Singer to understand the power of martial arts. “Martial arts taught me confidence and discipline. It also taught me structure and gave me the ability to defend myself if needed.” But maybe the most valuable, “Martial Arts has given me a purpose,” he explains. One thing he loves the most about his job is being able to impact kids who need guidance and make a positive change in students' lives. And with over 19 years of teaching, he has helped many of his students. “We don’t just teach Martial Arts, we focus on life skills and having fun,” he says. “At Victory, we are as involved as we can be with our students. We use task sheets for home and letters from the school to help reinforce the life skills we teach.” All of these help his students learn the importance of discipline and structure in order to achieve their goals and build a happy life.