Ata Prime Martial Arts

I decided to let my kids try ATA with a groupon I had for serveral classes. They made it clear from the beginning that there would be money involved before we even got to the second class- as if we were "freeloading" with out groupon. We had to fill out duplicate paperwork more once because they would lose it and seemed generally disorganized unless they were trying to get more money and then they became a finely tuned machine with repeated phone calls that bordered on harassment. I proceeded with a few more classes anyway even though the constant eager pressure to "sign" us to permanent lessons. Our schedule became very busy for a period of time and we stopped attending and I told them we would resume after in a few weeks after we had finished settling into our new home. They incessantly called me during what was already a stressful time and seemed to not listen or care about what i was telling them as they would call me again a few days later to pressure us into coming back. One day when I was on a very important business call they called again -and I ignored the interruption -except they didn't leave a voicemail and just kept redialing until I finally interrupted my current phone call. Needless to say I had it and told them to not ever call my phone again. We have been involved in many kids activities and have never dealt with such an obvious money grubbing establishment. People that are paying 200+ a month to that place are fools to the biggest scam in Lawrence- what a joke. I don't mind a business making money but when that's clearly all they care about? It's so obvious it's pathetic- reminds me of Kenny Powers spoof of running a martial arts gym.

ATA has been a blessing to our family. It has taught our son discipline, perseverance, and life long leadership skills. He has gone from a very shy young man to a self-confident, goal orientated, self-motivated young man. Mr. Chan, Mr. Golden, and Mr. Base are wonderful instructors. They are excellent at working with students of all ages and abilities. They will go above and beyond to help each student succeed and achieve their goals. Instruction is always done in a positive manner, providing a safe environment for all to learn and grow. This is a wonderful activity for families to participate in together! I highly recommend this school to anyone considering martial arts.

There is absolutley nothing bad to say about ATA prime martial arts. Prime martial arts provides a safe learning environment for both the young and the old. My children and I have all become more self confident since starting taekwond. The instructors at Prime martial arts in my opinion are the best, and provide a safe, fun, family enviroment that is warm and inviting while providing the self discipline, respect, self confidence, that comes from martial arts training. Mr. Chan, Mr. Golden , and Mr. Base excellent instructors who teach children and adults not only taekwondo, but also self defense, and values such as integrity, respect, honor and confidence. They don't only teach them but they lead by the way of example. I would recommend this taekwondo school to everyone who is considering martial arts and even those who just want to develope more self confidence in themselves or their children. Children learn valuable skills and the instructors bring out the best in every student, in a safe, fun, family friendly environment.

If you want a safe, structured place for your children to learn self confidence, discipline, respect, and self control than this is the place. The instructors Mr. Chan, Mr. Golden, and Mr. Base are not only wonderful taekwondo instructors but have a way of providing a safe learning environment that allows each individual young and old to develope life skills that not only hel in their martial arts training but also in everday interactions with others. It is a very family friendly environment and a great activity for families to participate in toghether. Great instruction from instructors who truly care about every student and the success of every student.

Mr. Westbrook, Mr. and Mrs. Messimese have a smile and strong words that makes you think that they have strong morals, as long as there is money in your hand. Westbrook never once in the time I was under his school made an appearance or even said hello to me even after I spent $4200 IN JUST ONE YEAR. The school has Honor, Respect, Loyality these word that they say which they have no true understanding or care for. They have a strict no refunds policy - NO EXCEPTIONS!

The teachings there where more just for show and not self-defense. I have looked into other schools in Lawrence and they are at least half the price without fees that keep coming up every few months. This school is not to be trusted and should be allowed to stay in Lawrence.

DO NOT SIGN A CONTRACT WITH A SNAKE IN THE GRASS - THAT MEANS ATA!

Buyer Beware! They have strict contracts, even for small children. If your child hates it after a few weeks, you still have to pay out the contract. The classes are generally good. Don't start if you are not into contact sparring. They expect you to spar upper belt ranks who may not always have self-discipline for lower belt levels. I also paid in advance for testing that I did not do. Now I cannot get them to refund my money (over $600), even though I have not and will not test any further.