Having very limited understanding of martial arts, I was unsure of what to expect when I enrolled my nine year old daughter six months ago. My main goal was to get her training that would allow her to defend herself as a young woman in high school and college.

My Daughters View...

My daughter loves everything about the program. In particular, she enjoys sparring in the Black Belt Club, advancing through the ranks, getting stars for good deeds, and Mr. Goodner's encouragement.

Life Skills Development....

While my daughter has developed self-defense skills much quicker than I expected. I am pleasantly surprised with the life skills aspect of the program. These skills include understanding, practicing and reinforcing principles like integrity, courtesy, courage, perseverance, and respect. Mr. Goodner is able to explain these concepts on a level the kids understand. He effectively uses the kids own experiences to reinforce their understanding. I have observed a significant difference in my daughter's self-esteem and confidence since joining Carson ATA. She speaks with a much stronger voice and carriers herself with considerably more confidence.

Leadership Development...

Mr. Goodner has the unique ability to teach and develop leadership skills in young men and women. In the last six months, I have personally watched him mentor two high school students who support the program as coaches. These teenagers are the highest ranking students and have progressed from uncomfortable and unsure of themselves in front of a group; to strong, confident, and respected leaders. Mr. Goodner works with them in developing their individual leadership style by allowing them to lead lower level classes. Mr. Goodner is always present; providing teaching pointers to the coaches and tactical instruction to the students. This approach provides real leadership experience for higher level students while inspiring the lower level students at the same time. Mr. Goodner is a martial arts expert. More importantly, he has the gift of being an outstanding instructor. He maintains a high energy level in each class, day in and day out. He is positive and leads by example.

Program Administration...

Both Mr. and Mrs. Goodner take the time to build a personal relationship with each student and their parents. The Carson ATA program is very flexible and allows each student to progress at his or her own pace. I initially enrolled my daughter in the Basic Program to see how she would like it. I upgraded her to the Black Belt Club within two months. I plan to enroll her in the Leadership program later this year. Mrs. Goodner is a delight to work with and ensures the administration of the program is effortless for the parents.

Program Quality...

I strongly support the Carson ATA because I believe the self-defense, life skills, and leadership training are invaluable to young children and teens. I have not found another program that has a curriculum to develop these types of skills. The Carson City community is very fortunate to have a program of this caliber with an effective and inspirational role model to deliver it like Mr. Goodner. I believe the investment in developing leadership skills, confidence, and self-esteem will benefit the participants throughout their personal and professional lives.

Please feel free to contact me through Mrs. Goodner if any additional information is desired.

Sincerely,
J. Del Byassee - Carson ATA Parent