Testimonials

I cannot say enough positive things about Master Andrew, Sensei Steve and Sensei Kasch, about their professionalism, their dedication and commitment to their students, _ and the respect and discipline they have taught my son. They were able to bring out courage, strength and dedication out of him and we are extremely grateful to have Paul Prendergaast karate as a second family.

Katie H

Our daughter has been attending PPK in Brick for about 6 months and has had such a great experience. The staff and instructors are stellar, her confidence has grown, and she loves going to class. PPK truly cares about their students and families and sets them up for success. I highly recomend PPK Karate!

Alexandra S.

Our son started at the Brick PPK mid October 2023. It has honestly been life changing of us in so many ways. At the end of November 2023, he started an intensive outpatient behavioral therapy group program at Jersey Shore. He was diagnosed with ADHD, OCD and suspected of being on the spectrum. We were told the would be in group for 6 months, possibly longer. He was graduated early on March 8th, just about 10 weeks later. I honestly believe that is because of what he has learned, brought home and applied from PPK. This place is so much more than just karate. The engagement and commitment they have to have fun yet teach our kids all about discipline, respect, leadership, dedication… the list goes on. We adore Master Steve and Master Dave. The hands on teaching and interaction with each and every kid is something I will never understand how they do it. Every single child gets recognized. This isn’t a place where you’re “just a number”. They know you by name the first day. That’s how you KNOW they care about your kids. Everyone there is amazing. Mr. Lohmeyer and Ms. Lindsay also always make it a point to give a high five, say hello and acknowledge Michael’s hard work and progress. We are so thankful for the family we have gained - there’s no other place we would rather be on the road to black belt with.

Kaitlyn R.

Our son has been going here for almost one year and | can honestly say it has made a huge difference in his discipline, attitude and manners. Master Andrew, Sensei Steve and Sensei Mike have created such a positive environment for these kids. | have never seen anything like it.

Amanda D.

My son is on the autism spectrum, along with having ADHO. | can't begin to express how lucky we are to have this team of individuals in his life. He has made leaps and bounds with his behavior, listening and social interactions. Paul Prendergast Karate has replaced my son's ABA therapy. Master Dave and Master Steve are some of the best role models, along with the apprentices. They are accepting and Patient. if you have any interest, ust try it once! Thank you for all you do for all the kids that attend this school. You guys are shaping our future. Thank you

Sharon Y.

Hey Guys! I wanted to give you all a small token of my appreciation for everything you all have done for me this year. From everything with my dad to other emotional, personal situation, I appreciate all of the support I got from the first moment I stepped in the door. There is not a single person here who didn't welcome me with open arms from day one. I cannot overstate the thoughtfulness and kindness of everyone here. I made the decision to come here impulsively in the middle of the night around a year ago today, and it is probably the only impulse decision that has ever worked out for me. Thank you for a great year, and I look forward to the next great year here with everyone.

Jess H.

Our daughter Paityn has always had trouble focusing in school. She started school when covid first hit us and she learned from watching class from a computer which | believe is where her focus problem began. Well my wife and | had parent teacher conferences last week and her teacher said that she is the most focused and most hard and wishes all her students were this way. | believe this is do Master Andrew sensi Steve Mike and Kasch that she has achieved this level of focus and hard work through there guidance we believe that sky is the limit. Thank you for all you do for all the kids that attend this school. You guys are shaping our future. Thank you

Christopher C.

The instructors here are top notch and genuinely care about their students. They notice when my son (7) is struggling and have pulled him aside to correct him. They encourage and motivate him, not only with karate but with school and home life also. My son has been a student at this school for a couple of years and is a half blue belt. Daniel has been especially wonderful as he has helped my son through a meltdown a couples of weeks ago because, let’s face it, this is NOT easy. Then again tonight he helped not only my child but others because, it’s obvious, the instructors want the students to learn.

Kathleen

Master Steve & Master Dave, Nolan had an emergency procedure at the dentist yesterday, Tuesday 12/27 and was so brave - like a black belt! It was a little traumatic for Nolan towards the end of the procedure when the laughing gas wore off. He has another procedure to finish the treatment on 1/2/23. Karate is a real drive for him to preform and be the best version of himself. Nolan has been thriving in MANY areas since he started in Karate. Any encouragement or recognition for his bravery would be greatly appreciated (as we know he will be apprehensive to go back to finish the procedure). Thank you for all that you do for Nolan and the many families of Pendergast. With appreciation,

Mary Kate & Jason

My son has been with Paul Prendergast Karate for about a month. Within this month we have seen a world of difference in him. Behavior at school and home has been night and day. He is so motivated to keep his room clean and do his homework. Every accomplishment big or small he is so proud of because he gets to go to karate and tell everyone about it. I wish we signed him up sooner. The confidence he has now and the joy karate brings him I would have never imagined!! We are so thankful one of his friends brought him to buddy week and he fell in love with karate.

Amanda Hennessey

I love their professionalism, kindness and care for my kid and nephew. The academy is always very organized. My son has improved physically and mentally so much since he has been going to the karate.

Sara Morici

My son has never been so happy to do a sport. We had him in soccer, piano and 3 seasons of baseball which he dreaded doing to all of them. When I say he is excited to go to PPK that would be an understatement. I've never heard him say he loves a sport before now. We have found him asking how many days till karate and recently asked if he can go more. ALL OF THE INSTRUCTORS are amazing!!! Somehow they single out every child at some point during class to give an example to which everyone claps and makes them feel special. They not only give great classes but they also teach life skills. At the end of every class they have all the kids gather around to talk about how to compose themselves outside of karate and boy has that made a difference. I could go on and on about this school and know we will be coming here for many years to come!!!

Jen Pharo

This place is amazing! They don't just teach karate moves. They work on your child's character, emotional skills, they highly believe in respect of everyone in your kids life or anyone they meet, they teach them in ways they don't realize they are becoming beautiful polite ambitious respectful responsible young men? Tyler love it! I def recommend this karate school Paul Prendergast Karate. I will never go anywhere else ever!! Bring your kiddos try you won't be disappointed I promise!

Allison Marie

I cannot begin to express the change in my son in only 3 weeks! The drive to attend Karate and learn! The teachers at school making it a point to let me know how my son is doing things for others and showing RESPECT!. Mr.Andrew has made this possible for my son and | could not speak more highly of him as aman. and a Master! Thank you Andrew and Paul Pendergast Karate for helping my son look forward to something and learn and actually use all he is learning!!!

Bella Fiora

Our son has been attending PPK for over a year now. Master Steve, Master Dave and their younger apprentices are amazing! The morals and lessons they teach are not only valuable to our child, but to us parents as well. If you are looking for a positive environment where individuals respect each other, you have found it.

Gregory Jordan

Amazing with my kids! My son has improved so much and listens so well, thanks to all the masters here!!

Dana Winters

No matter how large a class is, no kid gets lost in the shuffle. Master Andrew manages to acknowledge each child and makes them feel special without making anyone better or less than any other one. I just wanted you to be aware of how much your school and more importantly, the people in your school have impacted our family. Your instructors are more like mentors and role models and we are proud to have them as an influence in our son's life. Sincerely

Glenn and Denise Roe

Toms River, NJ

Hi Master Dave, I first wanted to start by thanking both you and Master Paul, as well as all of the teachers, for your patience and understanding while working with Colin. Since we started karate back in November, we have felt that this has been an activity that has played a large(and important)role in Colin's development. Through all of Colin's life, there are many things that cycle where there are times when things are easy and smooth and then other times where there are big hiccups. Because of the transtion back to school, not feeling well, and the exhaustion at the end of the day(his teacher said he feel asleep on the carpet at school yesterday)we are finding that the struggles right now are in all of Colin's activities that fall after school(Karate, soccer, his private therapies)because of what he's putting in at school, we know that we will get through this cycle, but it can still be frustrating for us in "riding it out." We just want you to know that we are so appreciative of your patience in getting through this cycle with us. We know that many people who have children with special needs are not welcome in certain activities because of the challenges they face, but we have only felt the complete opposite at PPK. So thank you... Thanks again for all of your help,

Kelli Tobin

Dear Master Paul, I wanted to write this to let you know how wonderful your school is. My son Logan Boyd, was struggling prior to attending your school. He is suspected of having mild Audio processing disorder. Thanks to your program we have the son we always knew he was. Specially, Master Andrew and Sensei Pat. Logan absolutely admires them. He has made a total 180 change. Very respectful and loves going to class. They have brought out the best in Logan and I extremely grateful for that. Again just wanted to say thanks,

Allen & Daniel Boyd

Dear PPK Family, I cannot express my heartfelt thanks for the generous donation to my family during these difficult and trying times. Never in my life did I think anything like this would ever happen to us but thankfully no one was injured including the brave firefighters and rescue personnel. The fire has taken every personnel item we ever had in life including irreplaceable childhood items and time sakes. The insurance company to this day(7+ weeks later)still has not settled the claim so your thoughtlessness is beyond words and greatly appreciated not to mention much needed. Paul Prendergast Karate has always stood for everything that is right and I am proud to say I am a member of the PPK family. Someday I hope to find a way to personally thank each and every one of you who donated and spent your valuable personal time helping my family. As always Paul Prendergast and staff cannot be thanked enough offering to help in anyway possible. God Bless each and every one of you in the PPK family.
Sincerely,

Debbie Barone

My son has been coming to Paul prendergast for 6 months and we have had an excellent experience. My son is showing more focus and received excellent feedback from his teacher at school. It’s helping him learn and show dedication. | can’t say enough good things about what this program is adding to my sons development, mentally and physically.

Kristin Jamaca

To every instructor at PPK , thank you for everything you've done and continue to do for our kids. Paul Prendergast isn’t just a school, it’s family. Yesterday was so emotional and seeing even some of the instructors cry was so heart warming that they care about our kids THAT much. For someone like myself, Cayden is only 9 he's been in the program since 3 1/2 he's grown up with all of you and | couldn't be more thankful for that. We can't wait to continue our Black belt journey.

Shawna Laczynski

| would rate this place with a million stars if | could. My son is transitioning into such a mature, active, respectful boy. All because of the staff at Paul Prendergast Karate. They taught him so much and they are unbelievable and so patient with all ages of karate. This place isn't just karate it's like a family. We are so proud of all of his accomplishments and I want to thank all the staff for being amazing!!

Allison Marie

Paul Prendergast Karate has to be the best in Ocean County. We did our research before signing my son up when he was in Kindergarten. All the other places just seemed to push your child through reach rank & it was all about the money. Now | know every business is into making money that’s how they thrive and survive however at Paul Prendergast Karate you are not just a number you are a person where the staff cares about your children. The heart, discipline, dedication, determination, commitment & respect that they enhance in your child is unbelievable. | can’t say enough about the school, Sensei, Masters and staff. Being here for the last 5years they become a second home for our children. They are a family oriented school. They truly care about your children, their issues that they might be having in school or home and they follow up to see how they are doing. The bond that my son has with the school is priceless. They teach your child if you want something in life you have to work for it. Nothing in life is free. They don’t hand out belts because you cry. You have to earn everything and do your best. Hands down Paul Prendergast Karate is the best & | highly recommend it!

Stacey P

This summer | enrolled my son in the trial classes that were offered at Paul Prendergast Karate. We have tried other sports, but we couldn't find something that he truly enjoyed. There was an immediate connection between my son and the instructors, and | have seen his confidence grow more than ever. The instructors have a way of making each student feel proud and recognized, and you can see the way the students look up to all of the leaders. We of course have continued after the trial, and | couldn't be prouder of the goals my son has set for himself. Additionally, | love the fact that my son takes it upon himself to practice without being told to do so! Thank you Master Andrew, Sensei Mike, and Sensei Steve (and anyone else | may have missed!)! Ten Stars!

Patricia Lugo

We LOVE PPK! my daughter has been in karate for alittle over a year & a half and she loves it! It's more than just a place to let your child get their energy out. It’s a family. I’ve met wonderful people there and the instructors are amazing! My daughter has learned more about responsibility & being respectful & just overall wonderful qualities.

Mallory Orlando

This place has done amazing things for my child. The progress and growth | have seen is absolutely wonderful. The instructors and program are so “kid focused” and truly address the whole child. We have carried so much over into our daily lives already and | couldn’t be more grateful to have found such a special program.

Courtney R

We came to the Paul Prendergast Karate through recommendations from former/present students of the school while looking for an outlet for our son after not so successful attempts at other organized sports. To date we have been nothing less than pleased with how the classes are run and the investment that each instructor puts into the classes The instructors (Master Dave and Master Steve) use techniques to make the classes exciting and fun for the kids all while keeping within the core values and the creed of the school. It is great to see an entity that reinforces core values of personal responsibility, integrity and honesty. This program through structured regiments of class instruction and personal achievements encourages the student to work towards daily goals of a positive lifestyle in the class and more importantly at home. In the last few months, of our son being a student here, we have seen a noticeable change for the better in our son's confidence and positive attitude at home and at school. If your are looking for a great activity that will have lasting positive affects in your child's life give Paul Prendergast Karate a shot. Semper Paratus.

Michael Tallant

My girl did it!! She EARNED her Black Belt!!! | am so proud of you Jianna. | am proud of all the new black belts.You guys killed it. Well deserved!!! Thank you Master Paul for creating an environment where kids past and present have found a home where they also built confidence and as Jianna said "embraced and love herself". | am forever grateful to all of the instructors both in Brick and Tomsriver.

Jeannie Lopez-Wilmot

In just a few months I've noticed such an overall improvement in my 5 year old. His listening skills, self-discipline, and respect are remarkable for his age and | have no doubt it’s due to him being a part of the PPK family. Sensei Steve and Master Andrew are amazing at making Karate fun for the kids all while still teaching them and gaining their respect. They make it feel like you have known them forever and are part of the family. | have nothing but good things to say and highly recommend.

Cheryl Stanley

Best karate school ever! You become family. 6 years later still love everyone & everything about the school. They care about our children future leaders...

Stacey Nicole

There are not enough words to describe how amazing this place is! Every class | watch how encouraging the instructors are. They really work the students; but make it so fun and engaging. So many other places are all about the money. Paul Prendergast is 100% about their students. They are showing them how to be kind, respectful, loyal, and making sure they are prepared for whatever situation they may face.

Tina Elle

Tina Korotky

The instructors are incredible at motivating the kids and making class fun and very professional at the same time. | don’t recall ever seeing a kid in any class that was not totally focused on the lesson. Karate moves aside, my son has improved in many areas like focus, discipline, self dependence, and most of all respect. PPK is very affordable too. I can’t recommend this place enough!

Adam Krentzman

My daughter is asthmatic. Tried several sports/ activities. She was mocked over the years in all sports she tried out for. | walked my daughter in to try out in this school. Master Andrew knew immediately this is a fit. This entire organization has done nothing but build children to the best they can. My daughter is a A student, an amazing artist and her confidence is through the roof. She barely needs her emergency inhaler now. She now practices every single day. This school is amazing and | will give it 10 stars If I could!

Theresa Bernardi

My son has been going to the Toms River location for almost 5 months now and | have seen an improvement in my son's grades, his behavior all around, and for the first time ever, he's excited to be apart of something. I've tried sports, special classes, arts, etc and this is the only thing he truly has embraced. | highly recommend this place. You can tell they really care about the kids and make a point to make you feel like a "family". Master Andrew and Sensei Steve are great role models. So glad we made the decision to try it out!

Barbara Brown

My granddaughter is a student there. Through the years | have been to many schools and different venues of sports and professional classes . | must say | have been very impressed by the staff and their way with children. To Paul, Steve, Dave | thank you and commend you on the job you are doing with the children that are entrusted to you. You not only give them confidence and skills you also teach them kindness, tolerance and understanding. These are values that are priceless and much appreciated!

Ruth Kelly McDonald

Excellent place to shape the hearts and minds of children.

Melissa Harker

Master Paul, | wanted to express to you my gratitude towards your Toms River Karate Family: Master Andrew is an incredible person who is truly helping to transform my child into a confident, outgoing and passionate little girl! She is a child who really needed someone special to bring her out of her shell, to have the patience to gain her trust and the willingness to accept her for who she is. Mr. Mike always takes the time to make sure to show Emma the correct form and way to do each move...which is so important for her...yet he always does so in such a gentle and positive way that | can see Emma always wanting to do better. At times her progress has been slow, yet Master Andrew never lost confidence in her...he celebrated her successes and most importantly for a parent of a child with different learning needs...he focuses and celebrates every child's individual success. | can't begin to express what what it meant for Emma to Receive the Most Improved Student award along with her orange belt...such an impressive accomplishment for her.

Everyone at PPK is amazing! My son enjoys each and every minute he is there! Thank you for being role models for him! David Zaffos Steven Vennettilli along with the others Sensei’s are simply fantastic! |am so glad | made the decision to send him to PPK!

Philomena Simeone

A little over one year ago | took my grandson to PPK for a birthday party. | was impressed the way the instructors interacted with the kids. My grandson is now a green belt. | have spent a lot of time taking him to classes, which lead me to get back into martial arts again after more than 40 years. In just 3 months of classes | have lost almost 20 pounds, my strength and stamina have increased. But most importantly my chronic stiff back is gone and my overall health is better. | will turn 61 next month and | feel better than | have in years. THANK YOU PPK

Butch Calogero

Patricia Lugo

We’d really like to hear from you.