

Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Hubbard.
Hi Justin, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have been involved in martial arts my whole life. My name is Justin Hubbard, and I’m the owner and instructor at Tiger-Rock Martial Arts of Overland Park. I began my martial arts training about 28 years ago, in November 1992. I enrolled exactly three months after my 5th birthday in St. Charles, MO, and was bullied in my first several weeks of kindergarten. So, my father decided to enroll me in martial arts to help with my confidence and to learn to defend myself. I enrolled in a taekwondo school called the American Martial Arts Academy. 1998, when my family and I moved to Tuscaloosa, AL, from southern California, I met my current instructor and eventual business partner when I was 11. At that point in my life, I had no idea I would make a career out of teaching martial arts. But my dream became a reality. I was involved with Tiger-Rock long before I decided to go into business with my mentor and instructor, James Bailey. On September 15, 2015, Mr. Bailey and I decided to open our Overland Park location! We currently have 250 active members, and I feel extremely fortunate and blessed to have Mr. Bailey as a mentor. I feel fortunate that God has blessed me with the opportunity and the ability to share my passion for martial arts with the community. I’m thankful to my instructor, Mr. Bailey, for guiding me every step of the way!
ABOUT TIGER-ROCK MARTIAL ARTS
At 8645 W 135th St. Tiger-Rock Martial Arts offers martial arts instruction to students of all ages. We have a 3.5-5-year-old Tiger-Cubs program, a Juniors program for 6-11-year-olds, a Teens program for 12-15-year-olds, and an adult program for ages 16 and above. Compared to other taekwondo and martial arts schools in the area, Tiger-Rock can be like comparing apples and oranges. Our roots are in the traditions of the Chang-Hon style of Korean Taekwondo. Although we still teach the traditional values of respect, discipline, and hard work, our style has evolved to suit the modern athlete better. I believe in training for our journey as a martial artist and citizen.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In 2015, my life took a significant turn as I made the challenging decision to uproot myself and my family from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and move to Kansas City. This decision was driven by my unwavering passion for martial arts and the dream of opening my very own martial arts studio, all under the expert guidance and tutelage of Grandmaster James Bailey. However, the turning point came when my family and I relocated to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, from southern California in 1998. Little did I know that this move would eventually lead me to my mentor, Grandmaster James Bailey. I was only 11 years old then, and my aspirations to teach martial arts professionally were still dormant. Years passed, and my connection with Grandmaster Bailey deepened. He became more than just an instructor; he became a guiding force in my life. During this time, the dream of opening my own martial arts studio began to take shape. The idea of sharing my passion for martial arts with others, just as Grandmaster Bailey had done for me, became a driving force. However, moving to Kansas City in 2015 was with its challenges. Leaving behind the familiar surroundings of Tuscaloosa, the support of family and friends, and the comfort of the known was a daunting step. It meant uprooting my family and embracing the uncertainty of a new city, new challenges, and new beginnings. Yet, the pull of my dream and the opportunity to learn from Grandmaster Bailey were irresistible. It was a leap of faith fueled by my dedication and belief in the transformative power of martial arts. With the support and mentorship of Grandmaster Bailey, I embarked on this life-changing journey. Opening our martial arts studio in Kansas City under his guidance became a testament to the strength of my passion and the enduring bond between a mentor and a student. Despite the struggles and uncertainties of the move, the experience enriched my life in ways I could have never imagined, reinforcing the importance of following one’s passion and pursuing dreams with unwavering determination.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Tiger-Rock Martial Arts of Overland Park?
Unlock a world of strength, balance, and confidence with our dynamic martial arts system rooted in the rich heritage of taekwondo. Initially born in postwar South Korea, taekwondo has taken the globe by storm since the early 1970s and is now the leading martial art practiced worldwide.
- 🥋 Elevate Your Fitness: Start your journey towards a healthier you! Our taekwondo drills focus on enhancing balance, coordination, and agility while you master the art of powerful kicks and strikes. Say goodbye to the mundane gym routines and experience a thrilling, full-body workout like never before.
- 🧘 Boost Confidence: Taekwondo is not just about physical strength but also inner strength. Discover how self-discipline becomes second nature as you train. Embrace personal responsibility, respect for others and yourself, goal-setting, and unshakeable perseverance. These skills will transform your life, on and off the mat.
- 👨👩👧👦 For All Ages: Taekwondo isn’t just for kids; it’s for the young at heart, too! Whether you’re 5 or 65, taekwondo offers incredible benefits for everyone. Experience a boost in physical fitness that leaves you feeling stronger, healthier, and more energized. Watch as your self-confidence soars and your ability to stay focused sharpens, improving your performance in all aspects of life.
Join us on this exhilarating journey to self-improvement, where you’ll not only master the art of taekwondo but also discover the best version of yourself. Don’t miss out on the excitement – take the first step towards a brighter, more confident future with taekwondo today! 🌟
What does success mean to you?
Success is the feeling you get when you realize your potential.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kctigerrock.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinh978 ; https://www.instagram.com/justinh978
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justin.hubbard.96 ; https://www.facebook.com/optigerrock