“Once, while assigned to the U.S Embassy in Israel; I witnessed a friend use Wing Chun as we were attacked at an open air market in the town of Jaffa. Later, I learned that this was a variation of the traditional style. My friend’s explanation has long ago faded from my memory, but I never forgot what I saw. The fluidity and power of this style had made an impression on me.
A decade later, after leaving the high tempo life of the Army, I was bored. In need of a challenge, I searched for a martial arts school that reflected what I saw years earlier on that hot August night in Israel. I found Green Lake Martial Arts. What I discovered was a welcoming group of people who really knew what they were doing. The instruction was top-notch, challenging while remaining positive.
No forms or long philosophy lectures. The new student is immediately introduced to skills that are practical and simple to employ.
The facility is clean and well run by Instructor Matt Soule and the other staff. This is not always the case in other schools. As a former platoon sergeant, I have had other martial arts training. It had its place and usefulness but Tsun Jo is truly unique. Movements are powerful, efficient and demoralizing for an opponent.
Students are also privileged to receive instruction from its founder, John N. Beall. Unlike most schools, where the founder is little more than a picture on the wall at the top of a lineage chart, Sijo Beall is present and active in GMA student development. It is rare to be able to train with the master and founder of an art. His knowledge comes from decades of training and real life experiences.
There is no better school in the Pacific Northwest for non-sport fight training."