Ultimate Leadership Martial Arts | Martial Arts Classes for Springboro and Centerville, Ohio
Springboro - 937-748-8797 | Centerville - 937-306-2120
Ultimate Leadership Martial Arts is a modern martial arts training center that focuses on teaching traditional TaeKwonDo as well as true leadership skills. Since opening in February 1999, our classes have been structured for maximum results and enjoyment. Students, of course, learn all of the Kicks, Strikes and Blocks of TaeKwonDo, PLUS true self-defense training and escape techniques. Also, each 10 week training cycle we focus on one of our 5 Core Tenets:
Founder & Chief Instructor, Ultimate Leadership Martial Arts
8th Degree Black Belt | Grand Master Instructor | Leadership Mentor | Family Man
For over 35 years, Michael Mershad has lived and breathed martial arts. An 8th Degree Black Belt and seasoned instructor, Michael is not only the founder of Ultimate Leadership Martial Arts — with thriving academies in Springboro and Montgomery, Ohio — but also a lifelong student of character, discipline, and servant leadership.
His journey began as a young martial artist seeking confidence and direction. Decades later, Michael has turned that personal transformation into a calling — helping thousands of students of all ages unlock their full potential, both on and off the mat.
Known for blending traditional martial arts values with modern leadership training, Michael’s programs are more than just physical — they’re mental, emotional, and definitely relational. He believes martial arts is one of the greatest tools to help kids build resilience, respect, and responsibility in a fast-changing world.
A true believer in leading by example, Michael doesn’t just teach martial arts — he lives its core values. He’s been married to his wife Jennifer for almost three decades, and together they’ve raised four incredible daughters and are now proud grandparents. Whether he’s teaching a class, mentoring an instructor, or hosting a self-defense seminar, Michael’s energy is contagious, and his approach is always centered on faith, family, and fun.
Beyond the dojo, Michael is also a speaker, entrepreneur, and curriculum developer, dedicated to empowering other school owners and instructors nationwide. His innovative teaching methods and leadership seminars are used across the country by instructors looking to build strong cultures within their own academies.
When he’s not in the studio, you’ll find Michael staying active, visiting other martial arts schools, hitting the gym, or planning his next family adventure.
“There are no accidental champions. You only become a champion by training hard, on
purpose, towards your goals!” -Michael Mershad