Beat the Streets Chicago
About
Beat the Streets Chicago offers both MMA and wrestling training with a strong focus on youth development and community engagement. The gym features a diverse coaching team led by Executive Director Mike Powell and Managing Director Brad Traviolia, with specialized leaders like Samantha Barrientos as Head Women's Coach and Larry Early III as Head Men's Coach. Multiple site leaders across Chicago neighborhoods including Avondale, Roseland, Midway, and Oak Park ensure accessible training locations, supported by facilities managed by Chris Helm and enrichment programs coordinated by Leila Cleofe.
Members consistently report an uplifting and professional atmosphere where coaches are exceptionally supportive, particularly with youth participants. Reviews highlight how the gym provides valuable opportunities for young athletes, serving as an alternative practice space during school breaks and fostering healthy habits. Parents note that even reluctant children leave excited and happy, praising the program's ability to partner kids effectively and build a positive community environment that extends beyond just athletic training.
The combination of experienced coaching across multiple disciplines, neighborhood accessibility, and a family oriented approach makes this gym a standout choice for those seeking both technical martial arts instruction and character development. Members appreciate the dedication of staff who invest time and energy into youth growth, creating what one reviewer calls the best place to wrestle in Chicago with a vibe that keeps participants engaged and motivated.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the supportive coaching staff and uplifting atmosphere, particularly noting how well the gym works with youth participants. Parents highlight that children who initially resist attending leave excited and happy, with specific appreciation for coaches who help develop healthy habits. Reviewers call it the best wrestling facility in Chicago and value it as an alternative practice space during school breaks. The professional yet welcoming environment receives repeated commendation, with no negative feedback mentioned in the available reviews.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Jorge Garcia
4 months ago
Fantastic program! My daughter loves it! Lots of kids that can be partnered. Coaches are very supportive! They have lots of opportunities for youths!
Nicole V
3 years ago
Great alternative practice place for my son’s HS wrestling team during winter break when the school was closed. A+++ would love to see them have more locations!!!
Harri Vallin
a year ago
The best place to wrestle in Chicago, great coaches.
Antonio Hernandez
a year ago
The vibe is very uplifting - my kids enjoy it. Everyone is very professional and helpful. Thanks BTS family.
EM Gee
3 years ago
Everyone there is amazing with the youth. My son will sometimes complain about having to go and always comes out excited and happy that we push him to go. My son said they are helping him in so many ways. We are very happy this place opened in our neighborhood. Thanks so much to all the people there who dedicate time and energy to help our youth grow love for healthy habits.
groupCoaches & Instructors
Brad Traviolia
Managing Director
Joe Malaquias
NTA Site-Co-Leader
Patrick Martinez
Wrestling Coordinator
Taki Miller
NTA Site-Co-Leader
Samantha Barrientos
Head Women's Coach
Jeremy Powell
Roseland Site Co-Leader
Larry Early III
Midway Site Leader & Head Men's Coach
David Dies
Tri-Taylor Site Leader
Mike Powell
Executive Director
Jahwon Akui
Bellwood Site Leader
Leila Cleofe
Enrichment Coordinator
Devanie Howard
Oak Park Site Leader
Matt Cavallaris
Avondale Site Leader
Quisha Powell
Roseland Site Co-Leader
Chris Helm
Facilities Manager and Avondale Coach
Ben Rosen
After School Leader & Avondale Coach
Jesse Thielke
Assistant Coordinator and Midway Coach