I've been a martial artist for 20 years. Over that time, I've learned
how to keep my hands up and kick really hard and really fast.
What I never learned were the skills I would need to become a
successful martial arts school owner and instructor.
On March 20, 2008, the day I opened my school, I was filled with doubt
and worry. I'd never owned a business before in my life. Up until then
I had spent 10 years working in corporate America, going nowhere fast.
Would I get any students? How was I going to pay my rent?
A friend told me about United Professionals, and at first I was
skeptical. But every time I used one of the systems recommended by UP,
it worked like magic -- almost like a paint-by-numbers formula.
Last fall, I joined the Corner Man program, and it was hands-down the
best business decision I've ever made. Receiving Kelly Fiori's
personalized coaching and having him hold us accountable to weekly and
monthly goals has transformed the way I think about my business.
Within 11 months, our brand-new school has gone from zero to over 130
students. Our monthly revenue is now close to what I made EACH YEAR at
my corporate job.
I share these numbers not because I want to brag, but because I want
to let other school owners know that this kind of success is not only
possible, but easily attainable.
I came into this with zero students and zero experience. All I did was
use the systems that UP gave me, and apply the advice we got from Mr.
Fiori. This stuff works -- the trick is that you have to actually
implement it.
I'd like to thank Mr. Fiori for his advice and generosity. Having him
in our corner has been absolutely invaluable. Grand Master Greg Silva
is fortunate to have him as his head instructor at
East West MMA Mesa.
I already know that 2009 is going to be an incredible year. Not only
will we be celebrating our school's first year in business, but my
wife and I are expecting our first child.
I cannot fully express how grateful my wife and I are to Mr. Fiori,
Master Silva, and the entire UP staff.
Serge Sognonvi
Urban Martial Arts
www.urbandojo.com 
