A Public Call-Out - Martial Arts scam!

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A few weeks ago, My son attended a tournament. As I've documented, he did quite well.

There were also some problems. I tried to be civil about it, but they have left me no choice. So here goes:

1. They announce at the last minute that competitors must have specialized equipment to spar. This was never mentioned in the flyers (though regular sparring gear was mentioned!).

2. They double charged my credit card.
Attempts to contact them to resolve the issue were ignored. I had to dispute the charges with the card.

3. They have now tried to solicit us away from our current school - Spirit Martial Arts.
No. HELL NO!
Martial arts are about work ethic, honesty, integrity.
Not cheating, stealing, lying, scamming, and taking short-cuts.

AVOID: Bobby Austin's Bushido Karate School.

Oh, the email they sent:
"Dear Cael,
Thank you for visiting our website. You have selected to be a part of one of the best schools in the country. We would in turn would like to thank you by inviting you to be a part the Austin BKS Quick Start program! This entitles you to come and try our program with no commitments, and receive a free a Black Belt Quality Uniform for only $49.99!!!
By calling us to book your first lesson Cael, you will be taking the first step towards creating a healthier lifestyle for yourself and will be embarking on a journey of becoming the best you can be. Austin BKS is the leading Martial Arts School in our area for fun & fitness, personal development, sport competition and much, much more!
Did you know that anyone can become a Martial Artist!! We have students of all ages and skill levels who train at the Academy and we seek to bring out the best qualities in every individual whether they are a 60 year old adult or a 4 year old child. Becoming a black belt martial artist is not about who can kick the fastest, nor is it about who can jump the highest, it is about having the attitude that you can overcome any challenge that may come your way.
As a student Cael, you will learn self-defense, reduce your stress, improve your fitness, flexibility, and develop positive goal setting habits that will help you to become your best not only in your Martial Arts training, but at home, school, and the workplace. Our instructors have years of teaching experience and are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.
Cael, you will experience life changes when you enroll in our award-winning program while having more fun than you have ever had! Give me a call today at 615-355-8383 to book your first lesson so that you can start receiving the benefits of training in Martial Arts right away!
Sincerely,
Bobby Austin
Director, Austin BKS"

Comments

  1. AnonymousAugust 30, 2010 at 9:32 AM

    My daughter attended this event. She won in both sparring and forms.

    We got the same solicitation email. We are not going to be leaving our instructor either.

    I've written Mr. Austin and asked he not stoop to this level in the future.

    -E.P.

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousAugust 30, 2010 at 9:33 AM

    We had our son enter this tournament. We also got this solicitation.

    Needless to say, we are not pleased, either.

    This is a disgrace. Unfortunately, it is becoming more and more common in the martial arts.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Recce RiflemanAugust 30, 2010 at 9:35 AM

    Wow - 2 comments on this.

    Not to mention, there were several others form our school - Spirit Martial Arts - that also were solicited. Both of these others are black belts - and have indicated they do not intend to leave SMA, either (of course!).

    ReplyDelete

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