In the bustling state of New Jersey, where skyscrapers kiss the sky and everyone talks a mile a minute, there exists a secret tribe of kids. They are not your average everyday kids. No, no, they are the Jiu Jitsu Juniors! Every day, after they've tackled their math homework and eaten their vegetables (yuck!), they transform. They trade their school uniforms for gis and turn into Jiu Jitsu ninjas! Of course, they have a leader, a quite unusual one. Let me introduce you to Grandmaster Gerald, although he prefers the name "Gerry the Geico". Now, he's not an insurance salesman, but a gigantic, jolly green gecko who walks upright and wears a black belt! With a Jersey accent so thick, it's like a creamy bowl of clam chowder, he teaches them the art of Jiu Jitsu. These daring kids flip and roll around, defying gravity like acrobats in a circus. Through their Jiu Jitsu journey, they learn to be strong, brave, and respectful. Despite their small size, their spirits are as big as the Garden State itself! They call themselves the "Jitsu Sprouts". And, they’re as diverse as the tomatoes in Jersey's famous salads - some are as tough as raw Jersey turnips, while others are as sweet as fresh-picked blueberries. But when they’re together, they create a delicious mix, just like a Jersey hoagie! As the sun sets in the Jersey sky, they end their day with a secret handshake and a hearty laugh. Then, with gis over their shoulders, they become everyday kids again. But remember, inside each of them, a Jiu Jitsu Junior always lurks, ready for the next adventure with Gerry the Gecko!
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For over ten years, Black Belt Leadership Academy has been a crucial force in shaping the character of students through exceptional martial arts training. At our Wauwatosa branch, we foster an environment of inclusivity, welcoming all students, from beginners to seasoned martial artists. Each class at our academy is carefully designed to challenge students on an individual basis, while also promoting a supportive and rewarding learning environment. We believe that by providing personalized attention to each student, we can ensure that they feel valued and motivated, thereby enhancing their learning experience. At Black Belt Leadership Academy, we are committed to nurturing our students' growth not only in martial arts, but also in character. Our classes are designed to instill values such as discipline, respect, and perseverance, in addition to martial arts skills. We strongly believe that the lessons taught here extend beyond the dojo, providing our students with valuable skills for their future pursuits.
Welcome! Since 1973, Tiger’s Claw Martial Arts has been providing expert instruction for children & adults in Isshin-Ryu Karate, Self-defense, and the Martial Arts. Our Hillsdale, NJ school was opened in 1999 by husband and wife team Professor Ronald Allan Mertz and Master Maureen Mertz. Our Black Belt staff is highly trained and proficient with over 140 years of combined training under the direct supervision of Professor Ronald Allen Mertz, 10th Degree Black Belt. We are proud that our school and instructors have won many awards including the American Isshin-Ryu Dojo of the Year, Platinum Lifetime Achievement Award and Isshin-Ryu Children‘s Instructor of the Year. Tiger’s Claw is home to the award winning Little Tiger’s Program, founded by Master Maureen Mertz in 1999. It is also the headquarter dojo for the Tiger Karate Society granted by its founder Grand Master Richard Mrofka.