My name is Patrick Ho. I am fifteen years old, a sophomore, attending Manteca High School. I am currently a math tutor at MHS, a black belt at the International Self-Defense Institute of Manteca, and I also help instruct at ISDI Manteca. I have done martial arts for six years under the guidance and teachings Sensei Mark Cameron and Sensei Courtney Meyer. I can say, from personal experience, that studying martial arts at the International Self-Defense Institute has given me the most useful tools to apply in life. Before studying martial arts, I had no sense of respect, self-confidence, or determination. Respect is a big part of what we learn at the martial arts studio. Respect for our parents, elders, peers, and ourselves. Without respect for others, you can never earn any respect. That is a valuable thing that some of us has forgotten and all of us must share. The confidence that this martial arts studio had given me is beyond measure. If it were six years ago, I would never have imagined myself demonstrating a technique in front of a class of twenty people; not only do I do that now, I’ve made an eighth grade graduation speech in front of hundreds of parents and students. It was something that I would never have done if I hadn’t taken martial arts. Plus it had led me to become more enthusiastic about asking questions in school and making plenty of new friends. Determination is one of the things I am most grateful for. The will-power that Sensei Mark Cameron has taught me through this well designed program has shaped me into a stronger person. It has gotten me through lots of tough times. Whenever I’m on the verge of quitting, I remember the wise words of my teacher, “You can never lose if you never quit. Just keep going at it and you will get it someday.” Sensei Mark Cameron has taught me the true meaning of a winner. Winners are those that don’t quit and I will remember that throughout my life. These are only some of the things that have I gained throughout these six years of training. I am mainly thankful for all the wisdom that my instructors had given me. Not only that, but the sense of a family I feel whenever I come in to train. The friendly atmosphere and welcoming smiles are also a plus.

Before my daughter started attending Manteca Martial Arts she was taking dance classes which she wasn’t very interested in. As soon as she started the class dojo she was very excited and now can’t wait to go to class! She loves learning new techniques. And it has really helped her overcome her shyness.

My kids love MMA. From my observations Sensei Mark and his team care about the children and teaching them respect, discipline, safety, awareness and motivation. They are encouraging and make a fun environment for learning. I use going to MMA as motivation to have good behavior at home. They respect all their Sensei and want to do their best. I feel my kids are more disciplined and self motivated since going to Manteca Martial Arts.

My son loves it at MMA. Everyone is professional, friendly, dedicated and very passionate about what they do. I totally recommend MMA to everyone and I brag about how awesome this place is, Specially the stranger danger class... so, thank you!

Hi My son Patrick has been a student here since sept. 2021 and he loves it . I love the overall message that the dojo stands for. Respect, and discipline. I actually went to a bday party there when we first moved here and I inquired about the dojo, he’s also got quite a few friends who attend from school. I love that they are learning to fight so they don’t have to fight. Also they just don’t get the next belt because they have passed their test, they need to be respectful at home and also be doing good in school in order to move on to the next step. Overall we are very happy with his performance and the dojo.

My daughter has been a student at MMA for a couple months now and she absolutely loves it. Her confidence is continuously growing in multiple areas. I have a changing schedule and Sensei Mark is very helpful in allowing us to make up classes when space allows. The learning environment is great for young kid just starting out.

I took martial arts as a teenager, right up until the time I had a devastating knee injury. I figured that would be it for me so I never went back and pretty much gave up on the idea. While at one of Manteca's street fairs I talked to the people at the MMA booth and it started me thinking, maybe I could? What's the harm in trying? I can leave if I feel I can't physically take it and the trial is free. I went into the Dojo, watched a class and talked to one of the Senseis. I found out that my age (59 at the time) didn't make any difference and physical issues could and would be worked around, so I started my free trial. That "trial" was a year and a half ago and I'm still going almost every night. Don't get me wrong, you will get a good workout. It's amazing how much it's helped my balance, strength, flexibility and cardio endurance. I feel so much better physically and mentally, it helps with stress relief and even works my memory at the same time. No pressure, I focus on making progress not perfection and have come a long way in just this short time. So if you think your too old or can't physically handle it, think again, you just may surprise yourself. While researching on line "Am I'm I tool old for martial arts?" I found this quote: "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the next best time in now". It is so true. Johnny V.

I'm so glad that I chose Manteca Martial Arts for my son. This place is exceptional! Sensei Mark, Mrs Jamie and all the junior instructors are completely dedicated to provide the upmost service and tools for learning for my junior martial artist. This place is a huge success and we love being part of it!!

My daughter has been going to classes here for about a year. She has grown and learned so much. She loves coming to karate class. She started out in the little kids class and she has now grown into the bigger kids class. She is thriving here. The Sensei’s are amazing and the classes are very disciplined but have so many fun aspects to them as well. We would recommend anyone join Manteca Martial Arts.

My daughter has been training with MMA since she was 6 years old. My daughter had always been such a perfectionist and hated to lose at anything when she wa so little. Joining MMA helped her build confidence without breaking her spirit. Sensei Mark and staff are patient, knowledgable, and really good at what they do. I love that they also incorporate life lessons into their trainings during mat chats. With things that we talk about at home and go over and over in circles trying to get them to listen and understand. Its always nice when they can hear it from their Sensei’s whom they look up to as well. I can honestly say, have witnessed my daughter grow into such a confident, disciplined young lady. In this day and age in the world we live in, its also important for me to know that she feels confident, shes safe and has the skills and knowledge to know how to protect herself if needed. Its a skill she will always have. This has been an investment my husband and i do not regret.

Our son has been training with Manteca Martial Arts for a few months now and he really enjoys his training and takes it very seriously. He has gained strength, technique and self-confidence with each class. When I asked Jackson what he values from his training he said, “how he is gaining strength”. I really appreciate how the class reinforces good values and etiquette that will help him grow well.

I would like to encourage any parent to bring their children or teenager to Manteca Martial Arts. Our son has been attending since he was in 3rd grade and is now 9th grade high school. Sensei Mark and Mrs.Jaimie are truly amazing and deeply care for everyone. Our son has matured and grown and learned to focus and persevere. Manteca Martial Arts in my opinion is truly a investment. Thanks again to Sensei Mark, and all other Sensei’s that work along his side at his dojo. Thank You .