Owners: Bronson Ko
Martial Art: Tae Kwon Do
How did you choose your school name?
While growing up my fathers school was named Ko's Black Belt Academy. When it came time to create our KOMA brand we wanted to keep the Ko legacy alive but to have a more modern feel that was easy to recognize and remember. By using our family name Ko and adding the well known terms Martial Arts, Ko Martial Arts was created.
How long have you been teaching?
25+ years.
What is your school's creed/mission statement?
As we like to say, we "build character for a brighter future." Our mission is to help build character through martial arts excellence, which as an inclusive martial arts school means we strive to help our students become the best version of themselves while improving lives one black belt at a time.
Who or what inspires you?
God the Father and his son Jesus Christ.
What is something special or unique about your school and/or students?
Ko Martial Arts is one of a kind. The structure, the focus on student growth and a commitment to serving the customer. With a completely modern approach to teaching martial arts we strive to serve our customers and to go above and beyond expectations in helping our students achieve their goals while ensuring that the parents feel that our program has more than met their needs.
What made you choose FUJI Mats for your facility?
The quality and customer service were two of the main reasons as well as the look and feel that the mats provided. We wanted to move away from the traditional puzzle mat and have a unique feel for our students while providing the quality that embodies who we strive to be.
What is the most rewarding part about working in the martial arts field?
There are important life lessons to learn in between kicking and punching. As an inclusive martial arts school, we find that one of the most rewarding aspects is helping each student find the best versions of themselves while learning skills to be successful in their future. This is the black belt way. Seeing the students gain confidence, learn to lead, and strive to better themselves through better habits, choices, and character helps us know that we are impacting their lives for the future.
If you could give one piece of advice to other martial art school owners what would it be?
Spend time continuing to grow as an individual, set big goals and break them down to achieve things on a day to day basis. Teach martial arts that you believe in with your whole heart and cut out anything that is a distraction or is not value added to your purpose. Treat people as you would like to be treated and always serve the customer.
ABOUT THE SCHOOL:
Ko Martial Arts (KOMA) was founded in 2006 and we have spent more than a decade as a leading martial arts school that places our students' positive experiences and personal growth at the center of our teaching approach. We help our students set goals, overcome challenges, and develop positive relationships. We have become a thriving community that is more than just a martial arts school; we are a family - the KOMA tribe.
We serve families in Johnson County at our South Overland Park and North Olathe locations. At Ko Martial Arts, it is important to give back to the community and ensure community service is a core part of our curriculum. We are proud that our students consistently use the skills they develop at Ko Martial Arts to become leaders throughout their lives.
