Hear from our Families
Reines Family
We absolutely love Vernon Valley Karate Academy and are so proud to be part of the Vernon Valley family.
Our oldest son, Caden, is 10 and has been training at Vernon Valley since 2020. Over the years, karate has become so much more than an activity for him. He now comes early to help teach the younger students as a junior instructor, including the Rangers class that his little sister, Eisley, 6, attends. After his own class, he often stays to watch his mom, Erica, train and to join her for self-defense and conditioning. From day one, we have felt like we were welcomed as part of a family. There is a real sense of community at Vernon Valley, and it goes well beyond the classes themselves. From karate camp, which Erica and Caden have attended together, to the annual tournament, movie and board game nights, and the exhibitions at Vernon Day, there always seems to be something to look forward to. Every event is fun, and the instructors, students, and families are consistently warm and welcoming.
What we appreciate most is everything our children are gaining beyond the physical skills of karate. It has helped build their discipline and confidence while giving them a sense of pride in what they accomplish. It teaches them to work hard, stay determined, and keep going when something is challenging. As parents, seeing Caden grow from a young student into a confident kid who genuinely enjoys helping younger students has been incredibly rewarding. Vernon Valley has become a meaningful part of our family's life, and we are truly grateful for the people and community that make it such a special place. We are proud to say that we are part of the Vernon Valley family and could not recommend the dojo more highly.
Klimash Family
Our family absolutely loves this karate school! All four of our children attend, and from the very first day they were welcomed like part of the family. The senseis genuinely care about each student—they’re patient, encouraging, and deeply committed to helping every child grow both on and off the mat. Beyond learning solid self-defense skills, sparring, weapons, and Japanese terms and traditions, our kids are also being taught the importance of respect, discipline, and character. The atmosphere is incredibly positive, and the community of families here couldn’t be more welcoming. It truly feels like a second home. Our kids look forward to every class, and we are so grateful to have found a place where they feel confident, motivated, supported, and excited to learn. We couldn’t ask for a better martial arts family!
Corbett Family
Vernon Valley Karate has been an incredible part of our family's life for years. Both of our kids, James (6) and Addison (9), have been students there since they were just three years old, and the growth we've seen in them has been remarkable. Addison has even taken on the responsibility of student-teaching other classes, which has boosted her confidence and leadership skills in ways we never expected at her age.
We're at the dojo three to four days a week, and it truly feels like a second home. Everyone from the instructors to the students to the families is warm, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping kids succeed. Beyond learning martial arts, our children are gaining discipline, respect, focus, and other valuable life skills that will stay with them forever.
Vernon Valley Karate isn't just a place to train; it's a community that lifts kids up and helps them become their best selves. We couldn't be more grateful.
Ortiz Family
From the moment we walked through the doors, we felt genuinely welcomed by this incredible family. They have created far more than a karate dojo they've built a place where families, friendships, and personal growth thrive. Their dedication to our community is evident in everything they do, and they sincerely care about helping children and adults become their best selves. The instruction is exceptional, with authentic Okinawa-recognized training led by experienced, high-ranking black belts. Every class reinforces discipline, respect, confidence, and perseverance in a positive and encouraging environment. Our kids look forward to every class, and we've seen tremendous growth in both their skills and character. If you're looking for an activity that makes a lasting impact on your family, I can't recommend this dojo highly enough.
Barnett Family
My son has an amazing experience with the new ownership the last two summers! (We no longer reside in Vernon full-time). My son trained here year-round for three years prior to the owner transition and change sometimes isn't easy. However, the new family running the dojo made my son feel incredibly welcome from day one, even though he's not there year-round.
The teaching style is exceptional. All of the senseis are remarkably attentive, patient, and kind. They ensure that every single child feels valued and completely included. No matter a child's individual pacing or needs, they make sure everyone knows they belong.
I love that their instruction goes beyond just practicing physical forms; they take time to explain the meaning and the "why" behind every movement and pattern. They have also introduced some of the Japanese language they use. On top of the excellent training, they host wonderful dojo-wide events for friends and family, which creates a fantastic community atmosphere. We are so grateful for their warmth and dedication!