Tim Brown Photography
"You don't set out to build a wall. You don't say 'I'm going to build the biggest, baddest, greatest wall that's ever been built.' You don't start there. You say, 'I'm going to lay this brick as perfectly as a brick can be laid. You do that every single day. And soon you have a wall." - Will Smith
Two and a half years ago, Joey and Tavia Harrison began laying their “bricks” when they opened Golden Isles Martial Arts Academy. They sought to create a traditional martial arts school that embodied the principles of Joey’s own instructor, Pat Duncan. At GIMAA they created a strong foundation to provide students of all ages with an excellent martial arts education, built an after-school karate program, summer and day camp programs, and functional fitness classes.
An opportunity to grow was presented to them by Brumbach Development, in the form of a custom-built 8,000 sq. ft. facility. Inspired by the philosophy of Scott Sonnon, creator of TACFIT ® and a quote by Will Smith, the Harrisons wanted their new location to offer martial arts and group fitness classes and be a place where individuals and families could create a firm foundation for their lives, by encouraging an entire lifestyle that is healthy, both physically and mentally. Thus “The Brick” was born.
The fantastic new facility is now home to:
- Golden Isles Martial Arts Academy, already established as a powerhouse martial arts school, teaching Tae Kwon Do Chung Do Kwon. New additions are Don Vistan teaching Kali/Eskrima, and Max Myers, teaching Kung Fu. No contracts required for martial arts classes.
- Brick Fitness, a group fitness center focusing on functional fitness, which encompasses strength, endurance, mobility, compensation and functionality. The classes are small, dynamic and unique. Instructors include Tannis Allen, Tim Brown, Angie Fedisin, Shelly Good, Joey Harrison, Chris Martinez, Blake Martinez, Dixie VanValkenburgh, and Jennifer West.
- The Treehouse, a children’s program providing after school martial arts, Parents Nights/Days Out, summer and day camps for kids aged 4-13, and birthday parties.
- Brick Kids, a fitness program for elementary and middle school aged children and basic tumbling program. Brick Kids will begin in the fall.
Everything that’s done well and right and has a lasting effect is built on commitment, precision and hard work. Your life should be built the same way. Whether you come through the doors of The Brick at 20 Airport Plaza on St. Simons Island as a martial arts student, camper, group fitness member, or workshop attendee, you are laying your bricks, building your foundation towards a strong life.
