Testimonials from Students and Parents:

August 31, 2004

(From John Snyder - father of three boys who take Martial Arts from Mr. Dale)

Just a note to say thank you for all that you are doing with the boys' Aikido training.  My three sons, Grant, Josh, and Jake have improved in so many ways; confidence, respect, self-discipline, and self-defense skills.

Grant was born two months early and weighed two pounds when he was born.  He is usually the smallest boy in his class.  Grant has been bullied and pushed around.  But on August 29, 2004, he fought two to the best bouts of his life.  He lost in overtime, 2-1, and then came back and won a bronze medal in his second match.  I was most impressed with his skill level, which has improved 1000%.  I have always believed in Grant and I can't express to you my gratitude for what you have done for him.

Josh's skills have also improved and he is having a great time with Aikido.  He rarely beats Jake in sporting events, so for him to win the first place trophy in overtime for his Kata is a big achievement.  He was so proud and excited about his achievement.  He even took his trophy to school on Monday to share it with his class.

Jake is a true warrior and with the right teaching will be one of your best students,  His confidence level has increased and he really wants to be the best athlete he can be.  I appreciate that when he was injured during his match, you asked him if he was okay to continue and let him decide this on his own.  I feel that this took him to a different level in his athletics.  The way that you asked him and let him decide helped him to advance.

I have never felt the need to write a letter like this to one of the boys' coaches.  I have coached three undefeated seasons with the Groveport varsity wrestling team and I would not change a thing with what you are doing.  Your tournament was top of the line.  I saw a lot of smiles, and not only from the winners.

My family thanks you.  Your hard work makes this world a better place.

(Student and parent of a student of Mr. Dale's - Tom Basso)

Having been involved in law enforcement for 18 years, I have received some of the best training from some of the best instructors in the world (SWAT, FBI Academy, etc.).  Additionly, I've been exposed to numerous coaching styles and philosophies.  Based on my life experiences and training, I can honestly say that your instruction and training ranks with some of the best training and instructors I've ever received and trained under.  To this day, I have not found a  instructor that has the ability to teach children/youth better than you.  There is no doubt in my mind that you are gifted.

(Jamie Hale - parent of a student of Mr. Dale's)

Dakota is taking karate classes at Ullom's Martial Arts in Ohio.  He has been taking classes for about a year now and loves them.  I cannot tell you how much the classes have brought him out of his shell.  He has made friends there and has been able to use the skills he has learned in all other areas of his life.

Dale Ullom is the teacher at the dojo and I cannot say enough about Dale and the skills he teaches the kids.  He helps them to learn about standing up for themselves, being aware of their surroundings and treating others with respect.  The classes go beyond learning the physical abilities that will help the children.  The classes instill discipline, courage, and pride.

(Student and parent of students of Mr. Dale's - Bill DeSilvestri)

As a parent, I wanted to get my boys in some type of self defense class.  After enrolling my boys and I in your class, I can't tell you how much of a role model you are.  Both Dylan and Devin really respect and look up to you.  Not only are we learning self defense, but you teach the boys to be positive and always be the best they can be.