Cy-Fair Edition | September 2022

BUSINESS FEATURE Team Tooke Mixed Martial Arts Local instructor turns longtime passion into business that fosters condence T ravis Tooke has been train- ing in martial arts since his teenage years. After studying

BY MIKAH BOYD

maintaining a welcoming environment while operating his martial arts facility. While not many pursue competi- tion while training at Team Tooke, others have competed at the highest level in the Ultimate Fighting Cham- pionship. Tooke also created a system that allows families to train together and provide children with character development. “I think what really sets us apart is especially in our kids program; we have a very established character enrichment program,” he said. Character building a sense of camaraderie and a welcoming envi- ronment to those trying martial arts for the rst time as well as veterans of the discipline. As the group learns together, Tooke said instructors witness people growing over time. “It happens in little moments over the course of years of training: People will be completely dierent in their condence and in their belief in themselves, but you see it as these little lightbulb moments,” Tooke said. “If somebody pays attention to body language and you see their eyes open up when they execute a technique correctly or they have a winning moment or even just a complimentary word from a coach, sometimes that goes a long way.” continues into the adult classes, he said, providing

mixed martial arts, he knew he wanted to compete and share his passion with his community. After reaching a brown belt, Tooke had the opportunity to train in Brazil for his black belt in jiujitsu. Upon his return, he started training those interested in MMA out of his father’s garage in 2005, eventually moving to a rented space in the Bam- mel area. His move to this location

Team Tooke oers classes for all ages to learn martial arts and gain self-condence. (Courtesy Team Tooke Mixed Martial Arts) TRAIN WITH TEAM TOOKE Team Tooke oers jiujitsu and kickboxing classes for all ages and skill levels. Students can train to work on themselves or train their way to the octagon.

PRESCHOOL KARATE Children ages 3-6 can learn karate and important character qualities.

was aided by his former instructor who operated the space adjacent to Tooke’s, eventually allowing Tooke to take over his space as well. After this expan-

KIDS MARTIAL ARTS Children ages 7-13 can advance through the belt rankings while learning life skills. BULLYING PREVENTION Children learn how to handle bullies and boost condence. ADULT MIXED MARTIAL ARTS Those looking for a fullling activity can train in martial arts and improve their health. KICKBOXING Muy Thai kickboxing gets participants in shape and teaches them defense tactics. MIXED MARTIAL ARTS Individuals learn the techniques and grapples mixed martial artists use in the ring. JIUJITSU Practicing jiujitsu hones one’s focus and abilities, allowing them to defend themselves.

“PEOPLE WILL BE COMPLETELY DIFFERENT IN THEIR CONFIDENCE AND IN THEIR BELIEF IN THEMSELVES.” TRAVIS TOOKE, OWNER

Travis Tooke owns the business. (Mikah Boyd/Community Impact Newspaper)

Team Tooke Mixed Martial Arts 10111 Grant Road, Ste. R, Houston 281-346-9464 www.teamtooke.com Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m., closed Sun.

sion, Tooke was able to grow the operation, learning the ins and outs of business. “I think it was a lot of trial and error business wise and a lot of doing things incorrectly.” Tooke said. “If you want to get good at martial arts and jiujitsu, you need a coach. You’re not going to just do it by yourself and watch things on YouTube. You need someone to really guide you hands on, so getting a mentor in the business world was a huge jump.” Through it all, Tooke said he has focused on the importance of

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