Customer Succes Stories
Grateful for earned confidence.
My 10 year old son kept getting in trouble at school. Over and over, the disciplinary actions became tougher and tougher. It wasn’t working. Deciding I didn’t like the direction of my son’s behavior, I knew he needed direction. He needed to better understand the concepts of courtesy, self-control, and respect. He also had too much energy, and too much free time. He needed an activity, and needed to learn lessons you just can’t find in normal sports. He needed someone who would be tough on him, who would wear him out. I decided to enroll him in martial arts. I wasn’t expecting my son to love it as much as he does. He took to martial arts like it was something he’d been missing his entire life. And I wasn’t prepared for the results. His behavior has drastically improved at home, at school or anywhere he goes. i feel that this wouldn’t have been possible without the help of Master Abel and Sarah Ucelo. These people aren’t just trying to teach kids how to kick butt, they’re helping to mold future leaders. They’re influencing kids to better themselves, their surroundings and everyone around them. To better their communities. Their school has a comfortable, local feel. There are no bullies, this isn’t Cobra Kai. They’re here to make a difference, and from what I’ve seen, they’ve already succeeded. I found Ucelo Martial Arts by chance. Pulling up a quick search, I chose the nearest school. I wasn’t expecting to find the best. 10 Gold Stars for UMA.
We have been involved with the Ucelo Martial Arts Family since April of 2022, marking two years since enrolling my son in this martial arts school. He is currently transitioning from the Little Champions class to the Big Kids Class, a significant milestone that we are grateful for. We appreciate Master Abel, his wife Sarah, and the black belt staff for their attention and patience in training my son and facilitating his growth.
Special recognition goes to Ms. Katie and Ms. Sabrina for their leadership in the Little Champions class, guiding my son towards self-improvement. Their influence extends beyond the dojo as my son practices their lessons in his daily life, demonstrating their impact. The rapport they have with all students, addressing them by name and fostering a supportive environment, is commendable.
I particularly value the weekly “champ manner” practiced in class and the consistent, well-structured curriculum that keeps the students engaged and focused. The professionalism and organization of the instructors create a smooth and efficient learning environment that benefits all students.
The supportive culture at Ucelo Martial Arts encourages personal growth and development in every individual. I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience as a member of this dojo, appreciating the familial atmosphere and the positive impact it has had on my child’s character and confidence. I highly recommend Ucelo Martial Arts to those seeking to enhance their child’s personal growth and self-confidence in a supportive environment.
I could not have asked for a better place for my son to start martial arts. This isn’t even a sport in my opinion, it’s a community that loves these kiddos as their own. They take time and patience with each student. My son came out of his first class very upset because he didn’t know how to do things, and Sarah, one of the owners, took time after they closed to explain things to him and answer all of his questions. We truly feel like family everytime we’re here. My son absolutely loves his instructors Katie + Sabrina.
I have been training in Jiu Jitsu for almost a year now and have really enjoyed it! Coach Abel and Jeff have been great teacher with different teaching methods. A second class was added and i can’t wait for the third to be added. I highly recommend this gym for anyone looking for a gym that feels like family!
We love Ucelo Martial Arts. We feel so blessed to have found them and so lucky to be able to be part of the dojo. My son (5 yrs) asks daily if it’s martial arts day. His behavior has improved and being able to connect bad behavior to the student creed has helped us to see even more transformation. He even points out bad behavior and connects it to the student creed now. All of the teachers are caring and provide positive redirection to the little ones. I love that Ms Katie is gentle yet firm. My son adores Miss Stephanie. Ms Sarah is always so kind and helpful, as are all the teachers. The teaching strategies are amazing, the life skill lessons and mantras are helpful, and the sense of community is impressive. I could go on and on. My brother in law started teaching at a different dojo and we refuse to leave after being here for about three months. As we are at the dojo longer, the more and more we love it! This is by far, hands down, one of the best things we have ever done for our family.
My son has gone to Ucelo Martial Arts for over a year and has grown and gotten so much stronger. He loves to demonstrate and he is super focused. All the instructors are friendly and very good at teaching even large groups of children. The owners Abel and Sarah are wonderful and are really willing to work with you and are present. Everything from the annual hike, to fun Ninja nights (so parents can go out for a few hours while the kids enjoy games and movies). Such a great community at Ucelo Martial Arts! Highly recommend if looking for a Martial Arts family/program!
My son goes to this karate place since age 5, he is 16 now… to take him to Ucelo was the best decision me and my husband have made.
Highly, highly, highly recommend this beautiful family and their school… all these years we have nothing but just the most beautiful experiences.
Great example how to teach your child all the best for the life.
They are like a second family to my child and I don’t think any words could really explain how great these people are and how great is their hard work.
Nothing but THE BEST for Ucelo😊❤️
Master Abel, his wife Sarah and all the staff at Ucelo Martial Arts have a true passion for what they do. They are teaching our children how to be better, use their manners, grow mentally and physically. They become family like family and treat each kid like their own. I love watching all age and skill levels and seeing them get faster and stronger and more skilled week by week or month by month. Thank you Master Abel, Sarah and all the wonderful staff. We are so grateful for everything you do each day.
UMA is truly a special place. Our two oldest have been attending classes regularly since last year, and we have noticed a big difference in self discipline, attitude, and self confidence compared to when they started. Master Abel, Sarahi, and all the staff are welcoming, focused on the kids, and are masters of their craft. Our kids are always eager to get to Karate, which is the real measure of how much of an impact they make in our kids’ and our family’s lives. The classes are not only challenging for the kids, but also a lot of fun! I also really appreciate that parents have to refrain from “coaching” their kid(s) from the bench, allowing the kids some independence. So many great memories already made because of UMA, and I’m looking forward to the many more to come!
The first time your kid nails the Student Creed, earns their next stripe/belt, nails a front roll… you can’t put a price on that kind of joy and pride.
Thank you, Master Abel, Sarahi, and Ms. Katie for all you do!
If you’re searching for a martial arts school, Ucelo is the place to be. Master Abel and his team are truly the best in the business. My daughter and son started classes there 3 years ago. What I particularly appreciate about the school is their emphasis on teaching valuable life lessons to the kids, not just focusing on physical skills. As a result, my kids have not only developed their physical abilities but also improved their social skills and mental well-being. I was so impressed by their approach that I joined their MMA program, coached by Randy Steinke, 2 years ago. I have truly loved this class and the skills I have learned. I always look forward every week to classes and the new skills I am going to learn.
I cannot say enough good things about Ucelo Martial Arts. Master Abel is incredible with kids. He is kind and also maintains high standards for the kids to reach. Sarah has been so helpful in getting us registered and answering my million questions. The black belts make class fun and upbeat, and they are so gentle and helpful in teaching the kids. I’ve seen my son’s confidence grow tremendously in the few months we’ve been attending class and I only wish we’d signed up sooner. I would give them ten stars if that was possible. I highly, highly recommend Ucelo Martial Arts.
I am extremely grateful that we found Ucelo Martial Arts. The trial invitation allowed us to have a risk free commitment. Our nearly 6 year old son was welcomed immediately. Only our family and the Ucelo Family knew it was his first class. An outsider likely could not distinguish seasoned students from newcomers. As a parent, that kind of quick assurance is rare. Imagine that you encounter a group of like minded teachers and parents. They hold the same core values for their children that you do. Character building, discipline, sharing, and self-control. That is what it’s like. I highly recommend taking the three class trial.
We love Ucelo Martial Arts! We enrolled our daughter when she turned 5 in hopes of improving some behavioral issues we were struggling with. Her behavior improved drastically!!!! and we couldn’t be prouder of her. Master Abel and Sarahi have left a lasting impression on our daughter, she loves and admires them, and I couldn’t be more grateful for them.
We just transferred to UMA and we are beyond impressed! Sarah is the nicest person and was very inviting, giving us all of the information we needed to understand their program and make the decision to switch. We love that there is such a strong sense of community here (we love our neighborhood!) and that we’ll likely see friends from school and other activities. We love the structure they provide and that many of the teachers have come up from Little Champions themselves! The classes are well-organized and all the teachers seem very invested in coaching the students effectively. Excited for our journey at UMA-Glendale!
My son started last month at 6 years old and right away he was learning and challenging himself to continuously do better and better. He LOVES UMA. He is bummed on our off days he wants to do karate every day! His focus, strength, and respect has improved tremendously even in this short about of time. Master Ucelo does a wonderful job explaining the respect is to be carried into home as well as in class. My son use to have difficulties listening and obeying the first time and we honestly do not struggle with that anymore. The instructors are wonderful and patient. I would recommend Ucelo MA to everyone.
My daughter Autumn and I absolutely love UCELO Martial Arts! Autumn has so much admiration towards Sarahi and Master Abel. The genuine care the instructors have with each and every one of their students- as a parent I could not ask for more. I have noticed Autumn’s attitude, behavior and autonomy improve in just the 6 months we have been there. I can’t wait to see where Martial Arts takes Autumn not only on the mat but in life. We are grateful for you both and thank you for all you do!
Amazing family, amazing school! From the Grand master to all his kids, we love Ucelo Martial Arts!!!! True passion for what they do, so glad we returned to Phoenix and my son decided to continue his journey with martial arts.
I would highly recommend this school. I have know this family for many years! They are amazing!!!! The kids learn the art of martial arts plus key characteristics to become better individuals.
Ucelo is a place I consider my second home, I’ve been training bjj and mma over a year now and I wouldnt be where i am without them. The coaches at Ucelo are inspiring. They invest their time in you and help you reach your goals. From the coaches to your training partners, they are constantly motivating you to reach your full potential. Here at Ucelo, my training partners have turned into family, and walking through these doors was the best thing i could’ve done, you wont regret it!
The best karate instructors in town! My daughter has been at UMA for almost 5 years and my son recently joined, both my kids enjoy the class very much! UMA has helped both kids learn about self defense, self confidence and respect. The instructors are experienced and patient with the kids, always pushing them to do better and be the best they can be. UMA has become family to us, we could not be more thankful for finding such wonderful karate school for our children!
Our 5 year old kiddo has been training at ucelo for about two months, and…wow. I love this studio and more importantly the community they create. First off, the kids go through legit work outs…no joke…the fitness element is real. But more importantly Master Abel is so impressive with the kids. He is structured, appropriately assertive, tender, light hearted, and emphasizes the values and decorum that is missing in so much of modern life. He cultivates leadership among his students in a way that provides extremely constructive role modeling for everyone observing. We love how the people behave in and around this business and are hopeful that these experiences will positively influence our little one and help her become her best self. If you are considering ucelo martial arts just go watch one class…you will see it too ?
I’m so happy we found UMA my oldest son who is 5 yrs old (started at 4) was having a super hard time focusing and behaving well in school and now thanks to a wonderful supportive team at UMA he is reading and right on track for kindergarten in the fall! I myself have recently joined kickboxing and I feel like they are so supportive and patient with me, I feel so much better about myself and have so much more energy! My youngest son will be joining the karate team in May when he turns four and we are so excited! Thank you team UMA!!!!!
Highly recommend this martial arts company to all ages! Some times martial arts classes can be intimidating but the UMA family are very welcoming, encourages individuals to never give up and have fun while striving to do their best. Being apart of the Little Tigers, my son enjoys his class and new friends as well as remembers each lesson his Master teaches; which we continue to implement at home. Some of the classes the parents participate with their children making it more interactive and memorable. So happy to have such a great martial arts company in the Glendale community. Awesome job Master Abel & Sarah!
We have been at Ucelo Martial Arts for 3 years now. The dedication of the owners and black belt instructors is impeccable. They genuinely care about their students. Both of my girls love training with the Ucelos.
We have had our two girls (ages 5 & 8) at Ucelo Martial Arts since July of 2019. I have seen the girls grow immensely in confidence, strength, and discipline. This is a family run business and it is clear that they love what they do in how they treat the students. My entire family would recommend Ucelo Martial Arts to anyone!
You have totally changed my great granddaughters life. Thank you UMA Glendale!
Love this school. Everyone is very nice, patient, and excellent at teaching the moves and understand the meaning of it. Everyone is treated equal. Feels like we are all a big family. I would definitely recommend this school. 5 Stars for sure.
I would recommend this Dojo in Glendale in a heart beat! I believe martial arts is what continues to keep our family strong, healthy and humble. This is a great school and trust me when I say that Ucelo is a legitimate dojo and they’re passionate about teaching their students. My daughter is very blessed to be part of such a great team and school! Also they have a great Kickboxing program for myself and I walk out each time feeling confident, accomplished and super sweaty!
My daughter has attended Ucelo Martial Arts Glendale for 4 years and i can’t say enough positive things about the karate studio. The owners, Master Abel and his wife Sarah, have created a great culture at the studio that makes you feel like family. They are both very involved and caring. All the instructors are incredible and really great with kids. They know to bring out confidence in even the shyest of kids. I’ve watched so many kids transform through the program. Their curriculum is wonderful-they not only train the kids in martial arts, but also teach them about respect, life skills, friendship, discipline, commitment, structure and professionalism. The studio is very clean and welcoming. I highly recommend Ucelo Martial Arts!!!
I’m a student in the MMA striking and bjj classes. Since day one Sarah and Abel were extremely helpful, and welcomed me with open arms to the UMA family.
It’s a privilege getting to train and learn from coach Randy and the bjj coaches. The classmates are supportive, and it’s a great environment to learn in.
My son participated in the karate class as well. The instructors are great, and all of the students have a solid support team walking them through their martial arts journey.
I would highly recommend Ucelo Martial Arts.
Ucelo Martial Arts Glendale is awesome. It’s a facility that offers program for anyone at any age. I have been training in the adult program for 3 months now and really love the mma striking and jiu jitsu classes. I am feeling stronger and healthier than ever and the coaches are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. I would recommend this school to any who is interested in learning MMA.
I took jiu jitsu a few years ago at another gym and decided to give this one a try. I took my first lesson last night and it surpassed my expectations. Very welcoming, structured, and professional. Everyone was eager to assist me being the new guy. A+ school a is 100% legit. I am confident this time around I will take it all the way with my training. When you find a place like this you take advantage of the opportunity to train there.
Great family oriented environment. Positive attitude from instructors and coaches. Kids enjoy coming to their class and always looking forward to it.
I enjoy their adult Karate and Kickboxing classes as it keeps me active. They even offer Jujitsu beginner classes for those looking into that field.
My son absolutely loves it here and he looks forward to going to class . The energy and atmosphere is very warm and welcoming , you can feel it as soon as you walk in . I’ve seen such positive changes in my son and it’s only been about a month . My husband and I truly feel that this was definitely one of our better decisions , I highly recommend this place . I personally love the teachings of respect and teamwork , and the inclusiveness .
This place is great, both of my kids love coming every week, they have learned discipline, confidence, and the meaning of community. Master Abel has been a positive figure in their lives, we plan on being a part of UMA family for a long time.
My daughter loves Ucelo Martial Arts. Her confidence, focus and physical strength have greatly increased. Not only does she learn martial art skills, Master Abel teaches respect, integrity and responsibility. If your child can only do one activity, chose this. You will not be disappointed.
We LOVE Ucelo! They not only teach martial arts strength and technique for the body, but also values to strengthen the mind. They teach the kids discipline, kindness, work ethic, and so much more. I love how they focus on a different attribute each month. They had the kids sign an anti bully pledge. They do a group hike at the beginning of each year. They have the most awesome Halloween parties. Always respond right away, super friendly, family oriented. I cannot recommend them enough!
We brought our kids here almost a year ago and have nothing but positive things to say about UMA. My kids (ages 10 and 12) were getting bullied alot and it was beginning to really affect who they were and they would chine home depressed. We knew we had to do something that would help them and build confidence in them. My mom was tasked with finding sunbathing that would help them with this and although it is pretty far from where we live…i figured we would give it a try. The first day we went they were nervous but also excited about it. From the very beginning everyone was very welcoming and super friendly. My kids were all smiles and excited once they got their uniforms and met Master Abel. Once class started and they were alittle(lot) out of shape, they pushed thru it and by the end of class were sweating but still has the same smile. They stated as a white belt and currently are at the yellow belt level and have no desire to quit! They have grown so much not only with learning martial arts but also in coincidence and discipline. The crazy thing is… it not beaten into their brains but actually learned and practiced throughout class. Even though we travel pretty far too get to class 2x a week, it is well worth it and my kids never complain about it. Thank you UMA for being such a great influence in my kids lives. ❤️
Adults and the kidos learning life lessons here! Strong in Mind and strong in Body! Join the Family. We are certainly glad and honored to be a part of UMA! Master Able Ucelo and the entire UMA Team is passionate and patient with everyone of all skill levels from begining to expert. Also, we love the fact UMA is not just a place for class room martial arts learning…we love the extra curriculum activities like the Ninja night for the kids, the group hikes, bbq.s and annual Glendale parade particpation! !!!!!