About Academy
Of Soo Do Thai
Learn more about our mission, journey, values, and the team
Our Mission
Our mission is to create meaningful impact within our community through martial arts. We are committed to building confidence, discipline, and respect in a supportive and inclusive environment. Through expert instruction and a strong sense of community, our goal is to help each student reach their maximum potential both on the mat, and in life.
How We Work at Academy Of Soo Do Thai
Our shared values keep us connected and guide us as one team.
Respect
We believe in treating others with kindness and consideration. Respect is the foundation of all our interactions, both in and out of the studio. It fosters a positive environment where everyone feels valued.
Community
We foster a sense of belonging and support within our martial arts family. Our community encourages teamwork, friendship, and mutual encouragement, creating a nurturing environment for personal growth.
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of honesty and ethics in all our actions. Integrity is about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and it is a core principle of our training.
Confidence
We empower our students to believe in themselves and their abilities. Building confidence through martial arts helps individuals face challenges head-on and succeed in their personal and professional lives.
Growth
We are committed to the continuous improvement of our students and ourselves. Through martial arts, we encourage lifelong learning and personal development, helping individuals grow physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Discipline
Discipline is key to mastering martial arts and achieving personal goals. Through consistent practice and self-control, our students learn the importance of dedication and perseverance in all aspects of life.
Online Exclusive Offer-10 Day Free Pass!
Meet The Team
We’re a small team that loves to create great experiences for our community.
GrandMaster Gathings
GrandMaster Gathings is the founder and head instructor of The Academy Of Soo Do Thai. He holds an 8th degree black belt in Tang Soo Do, a 1st Degree Black Belt In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and also rank in Tae Kwon Do & Muay Thai Kickboxing
Master Hiram McGee
Master Hiram McGee is a 4th Degree Black Belt in the art of Soo Do Thai, and a Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Master McGee is one of our most decorated and accomplished instructors and martial artists. He is a multiple time state and world champion in sport karate, as well as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Kickboxing Champion.
Sensei Toni McGee
Sensei Toni McGee is the head instructor of our Little Warriors Program. She is an accomplished martial artist, having won multiple forms and weapons championships, and she just recently competed in England and secured her first silver and bronze representing Team USA at the world games.
Online Exclusive Offer-10 Day Free Pass!
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about MyStudio martial arts business and programs.
Do you have an adult program?
Absolutely! Karate isn't just for kids! We have an amazing program for teens and adults, challenging them both physically and mentally, all while having fun and learning some fantastic self-defense!
What programs do you offer?
Currently we only offer traditional martial arts classes.
I've never heard of this artform. What exactly is Soo Do Thai?
Soo Do Thai is a freestyle, and is a mixture of Tae Kwon Do, Tang Soo Do, and Muay Thai Kickboxing making it one of the most well rounded styles/systems around!
Do you accept students who are non-verbal, autistic, suffer from ADHD, or who have special needs?
Absolutely! Our staff are no strangers to working with children with special needs, and often times they turn out to be our best students!
Am I allowed to stay and observe my child during class?
Absolutely! We encourage parents to stay so that they can observe exactly what their children are learning, in hopes that they will encourage and/or assist them with practice at home.
Do I have to stay for my child's class, or can I drop them off and pick them up after class concludes?
No, you do not have to stay for your child's class. In fact, in certain instances (where a parent's presence may be distracting for the child) we encourage parents to drop their child off and either wait in the car or come back and pick them up after class concludes. Each child is different, so we like to observe the relationship between the child and instructor FIRST, and then decide what the best recourse is for the child.
How often does classes meet, and how long are classes?
Beginners attend classes twice per week, and classes range between 30-45 minutes (depending on the age group).
Tell me more about your trial programs.
We currently have 2 trial programs. Students can choose between either a 10 Day Free Pass, or our 4 Weeks for $49 promotion.
Will there be any long term commitments?
No, students can cancel at any time AFTER their first billing cycle has concluded. We only require written notice (via e-mail) within 7 business days of their billing date so that we can contact our processors to stop payments.
What should my child wear to class?
On the first day we encourage parents to have their child wear loose fitting/comfortable attire. After their first class, we do require that each student purchase a uniform, as we do not allow street clothes on the floor.
Still have questions?
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.