KARATE @ THE DOJO

- 12917 Jefferson Ave P, Newport News, VA 23608

In the heart of Newport News, Virginia, a martial arts school stands out not only for its commitment to physical training but also for its deep-rooted history and unwavering dedication to its students. KARATE @ THE DOJO, a veteran-owned business, offers a comprehensive and authentic approach to martial arts education. Led by the highly respected Sensei Frank Hargrove, a grandmaster with over five decades of teaching experience, the dojo provides a unique environment where students of all ages can learn, grow, and build character. The philosophy here is simple yet profound: martial arts is a path to discipline, respect, and a strong sense of self, and these lessons are as important as the physical techniques themselves.

Sensei Hargrove's extensive background is a cornerstone of the school's reputation. As the owner of the dojo, he brings a wealth of knowledge from his training, which began in Okinawa, Japan, over 50 years ago. He is not just an instructor; he is a mentor who is genuinely invested in the personal development of each student. The dojo's curriculum is a testament to this, offering a wide range of disciplines including Karate, Tai Chi, Jiu-jitsu, Judo, and Kickboxing. This diversity ensures that every student can find a program that fits their personal goals, whether they are looking for traditional training, self-defense skills, or a new fitness challenge.

For families in the Virginia region, finding a place that offers both a safe environment and a positive role model for their children is a top priority. KARATE @ THE DOJO excels at this, with programs specifically designed for children and teens that focus on instilling discipline, self-control, and responsibility. Parents can see the immediate impact of the training, as their children bring these positive qualities from the dojo into their home and school life. The school also offers summer camps and an after-school program, providing a structured and enriching environment that is a perfect fit for busy families.

The dojo's commitment to its students is highlighted by its offering of a free introductory program. This allows prospective students to experience the welcoming atmosphere and high-quality instruction before making a commitment. The school understands that martial arts is a significant investment of time and energy, and they want every student to be confident in their decision to join the dojo family. This openness and transparency, combined with a focus on tradition and excellence, make KARATE @ THE DOJO a standout institution in the Hampton Roads area.

This article will provide a detailed look into the wide variety of programs and services offered at KARATE @ THE DOJO. We will explore its convenient location, highlight its unique features, and discuss why it is an excellent choice for anyone in the Virginia area considering a martial arts journey. By looking at what makes the school a beloved part of the community, we hope to give you a clear picture of why this institution is a top-tier choice for personal and physical development.

KARATE @ THE DOJO is located at 12917 Jefferson Ave P, Newport News, VA 23608, USA. Its prime location on a major avenue makes it easily accessible for residents of Newport News and the surrounding Hampton Roads region. The school is situated in a convenient area that is easy to find, with multiple parking options available for students and visitors.

The dojo is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. The facility is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can easily and safely access the premises. For added convenience, the school offers free parking in a lot, a garage, and on the street, making it simple for families to attend classes without the stress of finding a spot. The school also accepts credit cards and offers online classes, which further adds to the convenience and accessibility for modern families.

• Martial Arts and Self-Defense Classes: KARATE @ THE DOJO offers a diverse curriculum that includes classes in Karate, Jiu-jitsu, Judo, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Tai Chi. The programs are designed for children (age 4-13), teens, and adults (age 14 and above), with options for both group and private lessons.

• Physical Fitness and Training: In addition to traditional martial arts, the school provides classes that focus on physical fitness, including Karate fitness and self-defense techniques. The curriculum is designed to help students improve their health, coordination, and strength.

• Specialty Programs: The dojo offers unique programs that cater to specific needs, such as women's self-defense classes, leadership training, and Japanese Samurai Sword training.

• Camps and Programs for Children: The school provides structured and engaging day camps and summer camps. They also have a comprehensive after-school program, offering a safe and enriching environment for kids when the school day ends.

• Introductory Program: To help prospective students get started, KARATE @ THE DOJO offers a free introductory program. This allows individuals to experience the training and community firsthand before committing to a membership.

• Expert and Legendary Instructor: The dojo is led by Sensei Frank Hargrove, a veteran with a deep background in martial arts and a reputation for being a living legend in the community. His extensive experience and dedication to his students are a significant highlight.

• Focus on Discipline and Character: The school's core mission is to teach discipline and other valuable life skills. As one reviewer noted, Sensei Hargrove "really teaches kids the discipline," which is a quality that parents and students find invaluable.

• Diverse Curriculum: The wide array of martial arts disciplines—from traditional Karate and Tai Chi to modern Kickboxing and Muay Thai—means that students have the opportunity to learn a variety of skills and find a training path that suits their interests.

• Veteran-Owned Business: The dojo's veteran-owned status adds to its reputation for discipline, integrity, and a strong sense of community.

• Free Trial Programs: The availability of a free introductory program for new students demonstrates the school's commitment to transparency and its confidence in its high-quality training.

Address: 12917 Jefferson Ave P, Newport News, VA 23608, USA

Phone: (757) 992-9570

For those in the Newport News, Virginia, area, choosing a martial arts school is about more than just finding a place to learn self-defense. It’s about finding a community that fosters growth, respect, and discipline. Based on the provided information, KARATE @ THE DOJO presents a complex picture that requires a balanced perspective.

On the one hand, the school's strengths are undeniable. A positive review highlights the extensive background of Sensei Frank Hargrove, often referred to as "the Iron Butterfly." This customer's testimonial, stating that their "grandkids and daughter learned a TON at the DOJO," is a powerful endorsement of the school's ability to teach discipline and technique effectively. The fact that the school is a veteran-owned business and offers a rich curriculum including a variety of martial arts, as well as unique programs like Japanese Samurai Sword training, makes it an intriguing option for anyone seeking authentic and traditional instruction. The free introductory program is a great feature, allowing prospective students to experience the training before committing.

However, it is impossible to ignore the very serious concerns raised in the negative review. The customer's detailed account of an unprofessional and hostile phone call is a significant red flag. The reviewer’s experience of being "immediately, and angrily asked 'who iz dis'" and then being "ridiculed" is completely contrary to the professional and welcoming tone expected of a martial arts school, particularly one that focuses on children's programs. This review suggests a severe breakdown in customer service and a lack of professionalism that could be a significant deterrent for many families. The reviewer's strong emotional response, leading them to wish they could give "0 stars," indicates a level of frustration that is far beyond a simple misunderstanding. While the positive review points to the quality of instruction, the negative review calls into question the quality of the business's management and customer interaction.

Ultimately, what is worth choosing is the ability to train under a highly experienced and respected sensei with a profound background in traditional martial arts. For those who value a rigorous curriculum and the historical legitimacy of a veteran-owned institution, KARATE @ THE DOJO has a compelling offer. However, potential customers should be aware of the serious customer service concerns and may want to use the free introductory program as an opportunity not just to see the martial arts, but to personally assess the dojo's atmosphere and the professionalism of its staff before making any financial or personal commitments.

KARATE @ THE DOJO

12917 Jefferson Ave P, Newport News, VA 23608, USA