Today we’d like to introduce you to Dave Reeves
Hi Dave, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey began with a passion for martial arts and a desire to help others find strength and healing through it. What started as a small hobby teaching a handful of people quickly grew into a way to make a deeper impact on my community. Over time, I realized that martial arts wasn’t just about physical skills—it was about building confidence, resilience, and belief in oneself.
Today, my wife, Alannah, and I run Vital Combat Team, a space where kids and adults alike can heal, grow, and discover their potential. Our mission is to change the way people see themselves through martial arts, fostering not just strength but also connection and hope. Every day, we work to create an environment where people leave feeling stronger—inside and out—than when they walked in.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Opening a small martial arts business comes with its fair share of challenges. Some of the obstacles we’ve faced include:
1. Finding the Right Location: Securing an affordable, accessible space that meets zoning requirements and accommodates training needs.
2. Building a Client Base: Establishing trust and attracting students in a competitive market, especially in the early days.
3. Financial Constraints: Managing startup costs, including equipment, insurance, and marketing, while maintaining cash flow.
4. Balancing Work and Family: Running the business while ensuring time for personal life and family commitments.
5. Administrative Hurdles: Navigating licensing, permits, and compliance with local regulations.
6. Marketing Effectively: Standing out in a saturated industry and communicating the unique value of our programs.
7. Consistency in Enrollment: Managing seasonal fluctuations in student attendance and retention.
8. Staffing and Leadership: Recruiting and training quality instructors who align with our vision and values.
9. Community Awareness: Educating people about the benefits of martial arts beyond self-defense, such as mental health and personal growth.
10. Adapting to Challenges: Overcoming unexpected obstacles, such as the impact of economic downturns or local competition.
Despite these challenges, each hurdle has strengthened our resolve and commitment to our mission, reminding us why we started this journey.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Vital Combat Team is more than a martial arts gym—we’re a community dedicated to empowering individuals through personal growth, healing, and self-discovery. We specialize in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and martial arts training for both kids and adults, offering a safe, supportive environment where anyone—regardless of experience—can thrive.
What sets us apart is our focus on the whole person. Martial arts here isn’t just about learning techniques; it’s about building confidence, resilience, and a belief in your own potential. We’re known for creating a space where people feel seen, supported, and encouraged to push their limits, whether they’re seeking physical fitness, mental clarity, or personal transformation.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of the strong sense of community we’ve cultivated. Our members often say that Vital Combat Team feels like family—a place where people of all backgrounds come together to grow and support one another.
We want readers to know that we’re not just a gym; we’re a movement to change the way people view themselves and their abilities. Whether you’re looking for martial arts training, a new sense of purpose, or simply a supportive community, Vital Combat Team is here to help you unlock your full potential.
What are your plans for the future?
At Vital Combat Team, our plans for the future are centered on expanding our impact and deepening our connection with the community. We’re looking forward to:
1. Growing Our Reach: Expanding our programs to serve more people in the Dayton area and beyond, including specialized classes for underserved groups.
2. Enhancing Our Offerings: Introducing more services that support holistic growth, such as mindfulness workshops, self-defense seminars, and family-oriented events.
3. Creating a Legacy of Healing: Developing initiatives that use martial arts as a tool for mental health, helping individuals heal from trauma and rebuild their confidence.
4. Investing in Youth Programs: Expanding our kids’ classes to help the next generation develop resilience, discipline, and self-belief at an early age.
5. Collaborating with Local Organizations: Partnering with schools, nonprofits, and businesses to promote wellness, empowerment, and community support.
6. Future Locations: We envision opening additional training centers to make martial arts accessible to more people while maintaining the personal, family-oriented environment we’re known for.
The heart of our plan is to stay true to our mission—helping people heal, grow, and believe in themselves—while scaling that vision to touch as many lives as possible. We’re excited for the journey ahead and the opportunity to make an even greater impact.
Pricing:
- 30 Day Trial for $99*Ages 12 and Up
- Kids Intro Program*$99 Includes the uniform*4 weeks
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vitalcombatteam.com/
- Instagram: @Vitalcombat
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/vitalcombatteam1
- Other: Link Tree @vitalcs
