Dragon E's Black Belt Academy
About
Dragon E's Black Belt Academy in Columbus, OH offers training in mixed martial arts and karate, led by a highly credentialed team of instructors. The academy is headed by Grand Master Mitch Ellis, a 9th Degree Black Belt and three-time world record holder in board breaking, supported by Chief Master Michael Sonstein, Senior Master Mary McNit, and a full staff of certified black belt instructors. This depth of expertise allows the gym to provide structured, high-quality instruction across multiple disciplines, with a focus on technique, self-defense, and personal development.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the exceptional, family-like atmosphere where everyone feels welcomed and supported. They highlight the high-quality instruction that effectively challenges experienced students while remaining perfect for beginners, with specific mention of Grand Master Mitch Ellis and Master McNitt's encouraging approach. Reviewers emphasize how the training blends technique, self-defense, and important life lessons, creating a holistic experience that develops both physical skills and character. Families particularly value the empowering environment for children, including those with special needs, with many staying for years as their kids progress from beginners to black belts.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Lori Huff
10 years ago
Head Chief Master Ellis and Senior Instructor are VERY great. You will feel like family and home. I will never leave that school to other school. They are VERY friendly. They have autism and some disabilities. I love go there.
Sky Goodwin
5 years ago
I've practiced a handful of martial art styles over the years, and recently decided to get back into tae kwon do with my wife. In spite of our different levels of experience, the instruction is of great quality for my wife as a beginner but rigorous enough to challenge me. Sessions are taught with a good mix of technique and self defense with some ethics and life lessons worked in when appropriate. Highly recommended!
Richard Crabtree II
9 months ago
My oldest has been training with the amazing Masters at Dragon E's for almost six years now. Our youngest is a student as well and loving it! I cannot say enough good things about the academy, hence why we've been with Dragon E's for so long, with plan to stick with them for many years to come. Not only can I rave about the instructions, location and training but I think it important to also state how empowering this afforable opportunity has been for the kids. Get your children signed up today. Don't put it off, else it'll never happen. It's as easy as a quick email or even just dropping by a class. Do it for your kids, they will thank you one day.
Dan S
12 years ago
My kids have been going to Dragon E's for years. The school and staff are excellent. The instruction is outstanding on every level, from technique, to "form" to board breaking and above all the respect that is instilled in each student – to not only respect their instructors and parents, but to respect their peers, the class and Tae Kwon Do itself. My oldest son started at a young age and worked his way up to black belt. Now my younger son has done the same! The school/instructors have been instrumental in teaching my children more than Tae Kwon Do, but life lessons as well.
Kristin Poe
5 years ago
My daughter has been attending Dragon E’s since she was 4. She is 9 now and a black belt. Master Ellis and Master McNitt have both been so great and encouraging with her. All of the instructors are wonderful. They work well with children with special needs by meeting them where they are, being patient, and also pushing them to meet their potential.
scheduleHours
Monday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:30 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 – 11:00 AM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Mitch Ellis
Grand Master
9th Degree Black Belt, 3-Time World Record Holder in Board Breaking
40+ years experience. Promoted several hundred students to Black Belt. Protech & PPCT Instructor. Favorite instruction: Self-defense & Leadership.
Michael Sonstein
Chief Master
7th Degree Black Belt
30+ years experience. Protech Instructor. Favorite instruction: Self-defense & Leadership.
Mary McNit
Senior Master
6th Degree Black Belt
20+ years experience. Specializes in teaching Youth and Women. Favorite instruction: Beginners & Special needs.
Robert McNitt
Head Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt
20+ years experience. Graduate of the Junior Instructor Program. Favorite instruction: Sparring.
Mark Filippi
Certified Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt
10+ years experience. Favorite class to teach: Small Dragons. Favorite training: Weapons.
Andrew Sonstein
Certified Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt
15 years experience in Martial Arts.
Dean Gladura
Certified Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt
20+ years experience in Martial Arts.
Anthony Smith
Certified Instructor
3rd Degree Black Belt
9 years experience in Martial Arts.
Riley Spires
Trainee Instructor
2nd Degree Black Belt
9 years experience in Martial Arts.