Mr. Nik Myers, a resident of Fort Dodge, has undertaken a personal journey that ultimately resulted in the establishment of Myers’ Southside Martial Arts. What began as a quest for structure and responsibility in his own life has blossomed into a thriving hub for individuals seeking motivation and a sense of belonging within the Fort Dodge community.
Five years later, Myers’ Southside Martial Arts has developed into a family-oriented business, upholding the values of safety and inspiration for people of all ages. The success of this venture has exceeded Myers’ initial expectations, drawing in individuals from various walks of life who benefit from the supportive environment fostered within the martial arts establishment.
Mr. Myers attributes his contentment and drive to the progress and development of the community he has brought together, emphasizing that his purpose now lies in overseeing the collective growth of his students and patrons rather than personal acclaim. As he states, “I’m not taking credit for all the success stories. I’m just blessed to be the coach. I get a front-row seat to it all now.”
Reflecting on his own upbringing, Mr. Myers acknowledges his troubled past, marked by a constant struggle with low self-esteem and behavioural issues. However, through his dedication to martial arts, he found solace and clarity, ultimately leading to his decision to provide the same opportunity for others, including his son, Kale.
The turning point in Mr. Myers’ life arrived when he found himself as the full-time caretaker of Kale, who was grappling with his own challenges. This circumstance presented Mr. Myers with an opportunity to bond with his son through their shared love for martial arts, instigating the genesis of Myers’ Southside Martial Arts.
What initially commenced as a small-scale operation rapidly expanded, drawing in individuals seeking personal growth, from young students to adults. The impact of the martial arts classes became apparent as Mr. Myers witnessed positive transformations in his students, both in terms of their personal confidence and their relationships.
Driven by a desire to address instances of bullying among the children who enrolled in his classes, Mr. Myers initiated a specialised programme named ‘Bullied No More’. This endeavour, along with his collaboration with renowned Jiu-Jitsu coach Tom DeBlass, resulted in the successful empowerment of numerous children, as well as adults struggling with addiction and alcoholism.
The thriving community at Southside Martial Arts continues to grow, exemplified by the significant increase in enrolment at the facility. Mr. Myers remains committed to providing a safe and inclusive space for people from diverse backgrounds and age groups, with a focus on fostering personal development and a sense of family within the community.
In light of this growth, Mr. Myers recently acquired a new, larger facility to accommodate the expanding number of students. Looking ahead, he aims to further diversify the offerings at Myers’ Southside Martial Arts, with plans to host competitions, tournaments, and training seminars for both youth and adults.
The journey of personal redemption embarked upon by Mr. Nik Myers has evolved into a source of inspiration and empowerment for the Fort Dodge community. His unwavering commitment to nurturing personal growth and serving as a pillar of support for all who seek it has cemented Myers’ Southside Martial Arts as a cornerstone of hope and unity within the region.