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Read What Some of Our Students Are Saying:
1. “I found a home away from home…”
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When I started training martial arts, I had no idea that it would lead to this. I first began my training in 1999 around July, august and that’s when I met the man that would impact my life for years to come Dion Riccardo. Who knew that greatness was right in my backyard in oak park at that time I was in high school as a junior and I was just awe struck with Bruce Lee and when I found out he had a legit martial art system I just had to study it and that’s when I meet Mr. Riccardo the moment I stepped through the doors of 1005 Madison street I knew I found a home away from home. His confidence, poise and physical grace were and are second to none. I later found out that what I wanted at the beginning was completely different from what kept me there it wasn’t just self defense anymore it was more much more!
Scott Dixon age 26 Retail Manager/Instructor
2. “The confidence I have gained is priceless…”
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In the short time I have been involved in the class I have learned more practical skills than I did with 3 years of tai-kwon-do. The classes have been geared towards my line of work and have made me aware of the many dangers facing me in the street and how to defend myself from them. The confidence I have gained is priceless. I recommend this class to anyone serious about their job. It really makes you a better person
Armando Dominguez, Police Officer
3. “Since I’ve been training at Victory I feel alive again…”
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My name is Cesar, I was a wrestler back in High School. I was one of the greatest things that ever happened to me. It change “The first class I showed up to, I knew my search was over.” I loved it and it changed my life!
Wrestling and my wrestling family was pretty much the only thing that kept me from transferring schools. Unfortunately once I got to college, there was no wrestling team or even a wrestling club. I’ve spent the last two years looking for something to make me feel that way again. As Anthony B. put it last Saturday after team practice, “This makes us feel alive.”
This is when I stumbled onto Victory. The first class I showed up to, I knew my search was over. I read what Master Dion wrote yesterday and I’m one to admit that I don’t take enough time to stop worrying about my life and problems. I will, however, admit that whenever I step foot in school, whether it be class or practice, I leave everything else at the door. Even when I’ve had a bad day and worry that I’m gonna lose focus and think about other stuff. Since I’ve been training at Victory I feel alive again. The whole experience is so motivating that even though I feel myself getting in better physical condition, I still leave with the same aches and feeling tired because I continue to raise the level of intensity and push myself.
I felt so at home, that I even tried out for the competition team after only four classes. I wanted that feeling so bad that I went for it and gave it what all I had. To my surprise I was invited to join the team. The instructors are phenomenal. They are great teachers who care about you and push you to do your best. They encourage you to go that extra mile to better your technique. They are also great to talk to and I consider them friends and family. It is because of their encouragement that I motivate myself to push harder and give it my best shot.
During my search for something to take the place of my wrestling experience, I tried boxing and I tried Jiu Jitsu. But they were only classes offered at Depaul and nothing compared to what we go through at Victory.
If people are looking to find a welcoming place were everyone treats you like family then Victory is the place to be. If you’re a “retired” athlete and working out on your own just isn’t cutting it, the workouts at Victory will leave you wanting more. If you have a thirst for competition, especially in a contact/combat sport then Victory is a great place to be at. If you’re tired of going through the motions of normal everyday life and want to experience something out of this world, then check Victory out. I for one have had to deal with these examples and more.
Every single one of these “challenges” have been met and surpassed while training at Victory. I truly believe that being at Victory will not only match, but will go beyond my wrestling experience and once again be a life changing experience. That’s a lot to say after all the years I’ve spent on the mat.
Cesar Garcia
Victory student
4. “Since I’ve been training at Victory I feel alive again.I dont make excuses anymore, I feel better physically and I have been able to focus and expand my core values…”
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Hi My name is Paul Sepanovich and I would like to talk to you about Victory Martial Arts. After a long and often intimidating search of Martial Art’s schools I found Victory Martial Arts by accident, but now I like to think it was fate instead of an accident that brought me here. I have always been somewhat of a slacker my whole life, never wanting to push my self to accomplish my goals. Whether it be going to the gym, eating healthier or pushing myself in my profession, I’ve always had an excuse to tell myself. After finally forcing myself I mustered up the courage to go to the school.
My first time there I was extremely intimidated. Here’s all these people hoping and flying around practicing all these moves and combo’s that I know NOTHING about! Even though I knew nothing the staff and my fellow students took the time and patience to explain and re-explain what I needed to do. I have never felt so much compassion and camaraderie before. This isn’t your everyday run of the mill type of school. Here you have people that really care about each other and will do anything they can to help you go that extra mile. Even though I have only been at the school a short time I can already feel the impact that Dion and everyone at Victory Martial Arts has had on me.
I don’t make excuses anymore, I feel better physically and I have been able to focus and expand my core values and I thank you Dion and everyone at Victory Martial arts from the bottom of my heart. If your looking for a no nonsense, experienced group of people that really do care about you, the individual Then look no further then Victory Martial arts. Thank you and I hope to see you in class one day soon.
Paul Stepanovich
Century21 Hallmark REALTOR®
RAVE REVIEW
5. “As of today I have lost 65 pounds…”
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My name is Tom Bonadurer, I’ve only been training for a week at victory and I can tell you I have never felt better physically, and mentally than I have in a long time.
In 2004 the lord blessed me with three wonderful kids (yes triplets) and the last 4 years my wife and I have dedicated all of our time, and energy into raising them. In that time I let my health falter binge eating, not sleeping, worrying about anything and everything, and 2007 was the worst my house caught fire and I lost my job due to cut backs.
The beginning of this year my wife and I decided to try to turn things around, and one of those things was our health, we joined a weight loss program in February, and as of today I have lost 65 pounds. I figured now was the time to try to get in shape and stay in shape. I have always been interested in MMA, but could not find the right training facility, they where either to far, or they seemed to be all about money, or just not the right fit.
That all changed when I came across the victory web site, seeing the testimonials and reading the description of victory from Master Riccardo, I was hooked, I signed up right away, the next day I got a call and I was in the gym the following Monday. From the moment I walked in I knew this was the place for me, Anthony the instructor is fantastic he answered all my questions and made me feel right at home, the training has been hard and he helps you every step of the way. When I come home after working out I feel stronger physically, and mentally, I have a sense of focus and A brighter outlook on life.
Everyone I have met from the staff to the guys I train with have been very supportive and are willing to help the “new guy” out and I am very appreciative of that, everyone here is family now. Someday I hope to work into competing but for now I am happy to train hard stay focused and learn everything I can to get to that point. Thank you Master Riccardo, thank you Anthony, for this fantastic program, and one hell of a workout.
RAVE REVIEW
6. “I’d like to commend my instructors in helping me shed 18 lbs in such a short time…”
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I’ve been in the academy for 2 months and the training is unbelievable. I started out just wanting to learn the sport to get into shape and now I want to be a martial artist. Since I’ve been training my stamina and endurance are high. I haven’t felt this good since high school. I’d like to commend my instructors in helping me shed 18 lbs in such a short time. Thank you. I would recommend Victory Martial Arts to anyone wanting to get in great shape or just wanting to learn to defend your self using Bruce Lee’s philosophy of Jeet Kun Do.
Edwin Martinez (Forest Park)
RAVE REVIEW
8. “I Drive 30 Minutes…”
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When I first arrived at Victory Martial Arts I didn’t know what to expect.
I was nervous because I was new at Mixed Martial Arts and I though people would just look at me and think I was just another newbie.
After the first couple days I started to feel comfortable and people were real nice especially the instructors. My parents have told me to try and find a new place to go to because to go to Victory I have to drive 30 minutes, but I don’t want to because I like it here and I don’t care that I have to drive that far.
Omar Lara
9. “After my first class I knew victory was the school for me…”
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After checking out many different martial arts schools, after my first class I knew victory was the school for me.
Even though it was my first time there, it felt like I had been there for years. Everyone is very friendly, there are no egos, but the classes are still very challenging.
Paul Vossel
RAVE REVIEW
10. “I am a completely different version of myself since joining victory martial arts, a better version I might add…”
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My name Is Vince Sterling, I am currently in CDS 1, and am a completely different version of myself since joining victory martial arts, a better version I might add.
I started training at victory for a number of reasons. One, my consuming of alcohol had gotten completely out of control, and before I know it, I had gone from a lean football and hockey player to an overweight nobody who had no confidence in himself and was consistently getting into trouble. Since joining the family I have already made a set of new friends, lost thirty pounds, but also found some light at the end of the tunnel. I finally have a newfound confidence in myself and am a better person in and out of victory. I stay away from the bars, and dedicate myself to the victory family, the gym and to the well being of myself.
The instructors are nothing short of perfect, never afraid to answer a question over or to repeat a drill, or even in my case, give advice on life in which Mr. Calderone pretty much saved me from becoming a lunatic. It shows that they care about me and everybody else, its unreal how this really has become a second home and family to me.
I think whoever is looking for a lifestyle change for any reason should come to VMMA, whether it’s to get in shape, to learn the arts, to stay out of trouble, or even to make new friends, victory has all the tools to make you the best person you can be.
Vince Sterling
RAVE REVIEW
11. “I am a completely I started training at Victory because I wanted to follow my dream…”
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I wanted to get out of the bad things in my life and get away from some of the people that I use to hang out with. I wanted to do something with my life and not be a loser or just an average man.
I always felt I was destined for something greater than a 9 to 5 job. I went to victory because after I read up on it and checked it out it just seemed right. I felt like this was it, this was my chance to do everything I have ever wanted all in one. I did a lot of stupid things in my past, I needed to change the way I lived and they way I looked at life.
Since I started training at victory I have found that. After reading the posts by Master Riccardo it really helped realize the important things in life and life is never going to be easy. The instructors at victory are amazing people. It’s nice to see them open up to and show they trust you. It’s also nice to know I can relate to them and there people just like me. They are a great assistance to me and they help me learn the moves and techniques the right way, and that’s what I want. I like the fact that they try to make you better and that’s why they’re there.
The reason anyone should start training is not just because you want to be a mixed martial artist but you can also change your way of life. You change the way you live and the way you are for the best. You get to train with different people and make new friends and know that you were adopted by a big family. It’s a good feeling going into training and people say hi to you and joke with you, but they also push you to your limit to make you better.
Victory is like my second home and I am a better person since joining victory.
Daniel Sommers
12. “Victory martial arts have so much to offer…”
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Through high school I was a 3 sport athlete doing football cheerleading and volleyball. My senior year I even did a double season of cheerleading and volleyball at the same time. coming from such a high level of athletics I expected to be able to do most of this stuff pretty easily and I had never even began to think that there was a completely different level of athleticism inside me. Victory martial arts have so much to offer, not only in the form of a workout everytime you go but the people there are phenomenal. I walked in and after 2 sessions felt like I had been training with these people for years. but that’s not even the best part, Victory martial arts has helped me in the way I go about my day, the mentality that I have received is priceless, it’s something that can never be replaced and makes things in your life easier to deal with. Skeptical? I was too, believe me when I say this is something worth trying.
- Mike
13. “I love every minute of it…”
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I have been there for over a year and a half working with the Women’s Bootcamp and I love every minute of it. I am starting to notice changes in my body that I haven’t been able to see with other workout regimens and I hope to continue this as long as I can.
- Erika
14. “Victory Martial Arts is that my life and the lives of the people…”
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My experience with Dion Ricardo and Victory Martial Arts is that my life and the lives of the people I care the most about, my family and my extended family is being positively transformed. Dion has taped into my deepest motivation to help me help myself. My attitude is filled with great hope as I experience the transformation in my life. Thank you Master Ricardo and Victory Martial Arts
- Paul Keller
15. “The teachers at Victory are extremely knowledgeable…”
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I started going to Victory when they just had the one school in oak park on Madison st. I was introduced to the school by a friend of mine and joined her on one of their seminars at a ranch in central Illinois, I was very impressed with what they were teaching and decided to sign up. I was not let down by any means. The teachers at Victory are extremely knowledgeable in the field of martial arts and I found myself quickly getting more and more confident in my self defense abilities through their guidance. I would recommend Victory to anyone that told me they wanted to start taking martial arts classes.
- Alex Briner
16. “Everyday I am grateful for my Victory Family…”
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I have known Mr. Riccardo and have been apart of Victory Martial Arts Academy for almost three years now. At the time I met Mr. Riccardo I was facing a few mountain size problems. I postured myself to be consistent and apply what I learned from Mr. Riccardo/Victory. Now, I can’t believe how fast my life has turned around! A year and a half ago Mr Riccardo gave me the opportunity to start up a kids program in Orland. I look forward so seeing the kids every week and the classes just keep growing. Just six months ago we opened up adult classes in Lisle and they are doing great. I have been active in martial arts since grade school(15yrs) and have been apart of many great Martial Arts Organizations, but Victory is at another level. I recommend Victory to anyone that is looking to get the most out of their life. Everyday I am grateful for my Victory Family.
- Adam G.
17. “Victory has taught me to lead…”
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As a Manager and Instructor at Victory Martial Arts, my experience has been priceless! The wisdom that I have gained through training has not only given me functional self-defense tools, but has built my Character to be rock solid. Victory has taught me to lead by example, always be diligent, and to never quit. I have also learn life lessons from students as well as learning how to be adaptable to each individual to tailor what Victory has to offer to their needs and unexpressed wishes. Being in the position that I am in takes constant training and maintenance (Physically, Mentally and Spiritually) and is not taken lightly. My hope is that each person who comes in contact with my wisdom and teaching will leave transformed.
- Anthony Calderone
18. “I recommend Victory martial arts because it is a good workout and a ton of fun…”
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My best day at victory was my first class, because I had no clue what I had gotten myself into. I chose victory because my friend invited me to try it. I recommend Victory martial arts because it is a good workout and a ton of fun.
- aaron johnson
19. “I have elevated spirits and energy…”
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In my first month of joining Victory I have noticed a great difference in many parts of my life. I have elevated spirits and energy. Physically I am already seeing and feeling positive changes. Additionally, I have made new friends and feel very comfortable in the school.
- Nick Tournis
20. “I have been training at the Oswego location for two months now and have loved every minute of it…”
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I have been training at the Oswego location for two months now and have loved every minute of it. I am a big fan of MMA and to be training with Team Dion Riccardo has been a wonderful experience.
- Trevyn
21. “Victory Martial Arts has really transformed me physically…”
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Attending Victory Martial Arts has really transformed me physically, mentally and just inspired my young son who struggled being bully on a daily basis. As a single mom this frustrates me on many levels. Trying to find what to do logic for my son. He tried every sports but no interests. So as I attend the classes he does come along with me and watches me take the classes from a sitting distance.
So as for myself, the fit club doesn’t work for me due to non-personable like a number –just plainly lost in this fit guru environment-clubbing feeling. I wasted so much money on monthly fee’s and barely went to do lack of motivation. I grew up as a tom boy. I did every sports related from gymnastics of 10-years to volleyball to swimming and baseball. Now as an adult, a mother of two –it has derailed my life physically and mentally. So I knew deep down that I needed a contact sports to get me back on my feet again. I’ve tried the cardio-kicking boxing but I felt I wasn’t getting the same result and not the most out of the real kick-boxing. So I gave up again.
About 3-weeks ago, my life wasn’t going as plan and many emotions running up/down and started searching the web one more time and found Victory Martial Arts. At first. I was skeptic like most would be after having many disappointment but after visiting the web site and listening to the testimonial videos especially from the women segments; it has caught my attention very well. So I email of contact of interest and the next thing I knew I was talking to Danny directly who has inspired me and explained my concerns and openly invited me to take on the challenge of the free-trail.
My first day experience I was over-whelmed silently but I told myself that I have to do this for me and my son. I figure if my son watches me in doing this that he would want to do the same. So now, 2-weeks has gone by, and let me say, doing Martial Art Kick-boxing is my jackpot. I’m hooked. I looked forward to learning new technique’s each week and the focus detailed of body movement and strength. My coaches pushes me to that level that I need to be at. I need to be pushed hard and not once has failed me. This is exactly what I needed to do. I finally found a place where I am comfortable in a family oriented surrounded by people who are serious about getting back in shape for body and mind. I am also glad to say, my son is now attending the kids classes….This is a big Plus!!! I am so greatful to finally found a place where results are happening. Thank you Victory Martial Arts and Staff. The staff really go above and beyond to make sure everything is on target for you.
- Michelle Valentine












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