Congressional Recognition Highlights Executive Martial Arts' Transformative Impact on Nashville Youth
We're deeply honored to share that Executive Martial Arts has received official recognition from the United States Congress for our dedication to serving Nashville's youth, particularly those who are mentally handicapped, at-risk, and from diverse backgrounds. Representative Andrew Ogles of Tennessee's 5th Congressional District personally commended our work in creating life-changing opportunities for young people in our community.
More Than Martial Arts: Building Lives Through Hapkido
At Executive Martial Arts, we teach the classic skills of old school Hapkido under the guidance of globally recognized expert and lineage holder, GM Christopher Garland. But as Congressman Ogles noted, our programs extend far beyond traditional martial arts instruction. We're building confidence, resilience, and hope in young lives that often feel overlooked by conventional systems.
Our approach transforms students through:
Discipline and Structure - Creating safe environments where every student knows what to expect and what's expected of them. This predictability helps anxious children thrive and gives at-risk youth the boundaries they need to succeed.
Personal Empowerment - Teaching timeless, traditional, practical, and effective self-defense techniques that professionals use in extreme situations. When students know they can protect themselves, their entire worldview shifts from fear to confidence.
Academic and Emotional Growth - Martial arts training improves focus, self-control, and emotional regulation - skills that translate directly into better performance at school and healthier relationships at home.
Inclusive Community - Every child who walks through our doors is valued for who they are. Whether dealing with mental challenges, difficult home situations, or simply feeling like they don't fit in elsewhere, they find acceptance and belonging here.
Why Nashville Families Choose Executive Martial Arts
According to community testimonials, veterans and children alike gain recognizable physical and emotional strength from frequently engaging in our athletic activities. Parents consistently report transformations in their children - improved grades, better behavior at home, and most importantly, genuine smiles and excitement about coming to class.
We offer traditional Hapkido training for all ages and skill levels, including specialized children's classes that meet Tuesday and Thursday at 5pm and 6pm in West Nashville. Our instructors understand that every child learns differently, especially those with special needs or challenging backgrounds. We adapt our teaching methods while maintaining high standards, ensuring every student experiences success.
The Ripple Effect of Positive Role Models
In Congressman Ogles' words, "In a world where too many young people are left without positive role models, your example shines as a beacon of service and commitment." This recognition validates what Nashville families have been telling us for years - that our instructors don't just teach martial arts, they change lives.
Governor Bill Lee has also honored Ronald Christopher Garland with Certificates of Appreciation in both 2023 and 2025 for outstanding service to the State of Tennessee. These honors reflect our commitment to serving not just our students, but our entire community.
Join Our Mission
The congressional recognition we've received isn't just an honor - it's a call to expand our impact. We're committed to reaching more young people who need what we offer: structure, discipline, confidence, and above all, adults who believe in their potential.
Whether your child is dealing with ADHD, autism spectrum challenges, behavioral issues, or simply needs a positive outlet and supportive community, Executive Martial Arts welcomes them with open arms. Our programs instill the discipline and self-respect that young people need to navigate life's challenges, while providing the physical activity and social interaction crucial for healthy development.
Experience the Difference
We invite you to visit our West Nashville location and see firsthand why families across Nashville trust us with their children's development. Watch as shy children find their voice, aggressive children learn control, and struggling students discover they're capable of more than they ever imagined.
Congressional recognition is wonderful, but the real reward comes every time a parent tells us their child's life has changed, every time a student breaks through a barrier they thought was permanent, and every time a young person realizes they're capable of greatness.
Ready to start your child's transformation? Contact Executive Martial Arts today to schedule a trial class and discover why Representative Ogles calls our work "extraordinary." Your child's journey to confidence, discipline, and success starts here.
Executive Martial Arts offers classes for all ages and abilities in West Nashville. Visit executivemartialarts.co or call to schedule your trial class today.
Congress of the United States
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515-4205
ANDREW OGLES
5TH DISTRICT, TENNESSEE
151 CANNON HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING
WASHINGTON, DC 20515-4205
(202) 225-4311
Mr. Garland,
It is my honor to recognize and commend your outstanding work in supporting mentally handicapped, at-risk, and diverse children and youth in our community.
Through your years of service, you have demonstrated extraordinary dedication to creating safe, structured, and empowering environments where young people are not only welcomed but valued. Families across Nashville have spoken to the compassion, patience, and skill you bring to your work, qualities that help young people build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
Your programs and mentorship go far beyond martial arts instruction. They instill discipline, personal responsibility, and self-respect, while also offering children and teens a place where they can grow both academically and emotionally. By highlighting their strengths and affirming their worth, you have changed the trajectory of countless lives and given hope to families who often felt overlooked by traditional systems.
In a world where too many young people are left without positive role models, your example shines as a beacon of service and commitment. On behalf of Tennessee's 5th Congressional District, I thank you for your tireless efforts and for the lasting impact you continue to make in our community.
Respectfully,
Andrew Ogles