Today we’d like to introduce you to Manuel Martinez.
Hi Manuel, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I grew up in Oak Cliff and wrestled at Sunset High School, which led me to start training martial arts while serving in the Army. After exiting the military, I continued training, eventually earning my black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I knew I wanted to open my own gym and serve the community I grew up in. So, I went back to school using my GI bill, obtaining a business degree, and opened Crusader Combat Club to bring martial arts to the area. I hope to soon work with the local high school wrestling coaches to improve their programs and conduct clinics for them. I believe it is important to offer an outlet where youth and adults can take part in a physically challenging activity in a safe environment
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The path has not been smooth, I’ve had to deal with some challenges along the way, in the form of meeting initial startup requirements, overcoming some issues in my personal life including the death of a parent, and dealing with the transition back into civilian life. We also had a break in within the first month of moving to our new location which was a set back financially.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I teach martial arts to children and adults. The main focus of our gym are the grappling arts, such as Jiu Jitsu and wrestling, but we also have a kickboxing program that runs parallel to the other programs. I am most proud of bringing my business back to Oak Cliff. I wrestled at Sunset High School, and also coached wrestling at St. Marks preparatory school.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I see the industry continuing to grow. The demand for martial arts has grown significantly over the last ten years or so with the rise in popularity of mixed martial arts. I believe that it is important for instructors to maintain the relevance of our martial arts, by continuing to teach legitimate techniques and pressure testing students through live sparring scenarios.
Pricing:
- $120 for monthly membership
- $50 hourly for private lessons
- $50 hourly for personal training
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Crusadercombatclub.com
- Instagram: @crusadercombatclub
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/crusadercombatclub
