“Making the greatest positive difference for the greatest number of people” is what drives Asheville Sun Soo Martial Arts founder, owner and 8th Degree Black Belt Grandmaster Tony Morris. His commitment to excellence extends to the technique taught at his school, the culture he creates with his team and what he expects from every student he instructs.

“We see every person as amazing, talented, powerful, intelligent and capable of greatness,” says Grandmaster Morris, who has practiced Traditional Tae Kwon Do and Hapkido since he was 10 (in 1972). “We have a personalized introductory meeting with every student to see if we are the best for each other. It’s a discovery process and a two-way relationship,” he says. 

With kids, Grandmaster Morris first establishes that they practice impeccable manners and learn respect for themselves and others. “Students are immersed in a positive and empowering environment to learn self-defense, relieve stress, increase focus, build confidence, break through barriers and live a goal-oriented life,” he says. Sun Soo is for any age and has a surprisingly high adult enrollment as well (40%), and an even mix of genders.

A former architect, Grandmaster Morris doesn’t miss a detail. His school is 12,500 square feet of open-floor concept with mirrors “so students can see themselves and instructors can ensure proper technique.” Located at 800 Fairview Road in Asheville, the school has an open lobby that allows parents to see and hear the high-caliber martial arts instruction and witness firsthand how their kids step out of their shells (a smaller version of themselves) and begin to feel empowered. “We hold each other high in an inspiring environment where students pursue their potential so they can become their best selves,” Grandmaster Morris explains. “This commitment of excellence continues off the mat.”

Now serving 600-plus students, Asheville Sun Soo Martial Arts offers 40-plus classes per week for pre-K, kids, teens, adults and entire families.

Sun Soo also has a state-of-the-art after-school program and seven vans to accommodate school pickup from Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools. “Our after-school program helps students succeed academically and is staffed by highly educated and professional adults,” Grandmaster Morris says. “It includes private tutoring, homework help, engineers who teach STEM skills, team-building skills, leadership skills, conflict resolution skills and convenient access to excellent martial arts classes.”

His large team always operates at a high level, which is evident from more than 200 five-star reviews. Asheville Sun Soo Martial Arts also offers programming in several areas and has been voted #1 in WNC in each of the following for several years straight!

Sun Soo means “pure spirit” and describes the energy of the school. Grandmaster Morris attributes Sun Soo’s success to its clarity of mission and standard of excellence, but it’s also clear that he’s successful because he’s aligned with what he loves doing. “Our quality of instruction is exceptionally high. Students thrive in an environment of high structure and clarity,” he says. “Sun Soo helps students realize that they can become extraordinary.”

Visit martialartsasheville.com for more information.