Testimonials

Bill and I could never be able to express our profound thanks and gratitude for what you have given Erin
over these past 4 years. Her progression has been amazing, I just stand in awe some nights watching
her. 4 years later, I look at my 11 year old Black Belt daughter, and think wow, what a terrific young lady.
It would not be without all of the hard work she has put in, but also, all of the hard work you put in at
shaping these students’ lives. Erin is today attending a Student Leadership Conference for 5th graders in
our school district. Only about 5 from each school were selected, so maybe 25-30 kids in total. This is
also a reflection on what she has been taught at the Dojo. Thank you so much for everything you
continue to do for Erin and all of these young students. Every time we step in the Dojo, it is a feeling of
home and family that encompasses us.

Lori McRitchie

Student: Alex Bottorff

I have seen many physical benefits during the time I have been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I have
been training for about a year and a half. My cardio has never been a problem during my time training. I
am proud to say that I have never been completely gassed during a class. I am able to go through class
fluently and without heavy breathing. I am a runner so that keeps me in great shape but Jiu-Jitsu is
awesome for cross-training and helps boost the level of my running. Jiu-Jitsu has also helped develop
muscles that I don’t use as much during running. I find my body to be stronger than it ever has been
before, especially my chest and back. My favorite aspect of Jiu-Jitsu is how relaxing it is. I don’t find
rolling stressful or excessively tiresome. Sometimes when I am rolling, I just shut my eyes, relax and
think. There are not many sports that are as methodical as Jiu-Jitsu and that is something that I really
like about it. For me, Jiu-Jitsu classes are positive outlets where I can relieve stress. Overall and in
conjunction with running, Jiu-Jitsu has contributed to an improvement in my physical condition.
I would definitely recommend Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to people and I already do. I believe it is a great sport
and I am happy with everything I get out of it. Jiu-Jitsu has improved my physical state and mental
state. It has also taught me proper ground defense which is applicable in the outside world.
I look forward to going to the classes and try to go as much as possible. The classes are interesting and
the people I train with are great. I even train with my dad which is cool. Taking Jiu-Jitsu has been a
positive addition to my life.

Alex Bottorff

Testimonials

I began training in the martial arts at LaVallee’s USA Black Belt Champions many years ago. Since
renewing my commitment as a black belt, I also became interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I had no real
grappling experience in my life and thought that learning the art of jiu-jitsu would be an excellent
addition to my martial arts skills.
Since beginning my training with World Jiu-Jitsu United, I realized some important benefits. While
grappling with people, I have noticed that I will tend to relax and look for openings. When I first started
with the program I would panic and rush to make things happen. Now, I take my time and think about
my options. I have also noticed that my hand strength has increased. This is important for many
different techniques. I work in a career that puts strain on the lower back. By training in jiu-jitsu, I have
found that the exercises practiced help increase the strength and flexibility in my back and also decrease
discomfort. These developments are helpful to me as a practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
As a black belt, I already have certain goals that I want to accomplish. Because of that, I also have some
insight as to different styles of martial arts. I would recommend people to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for many
reasons. One reason is because the techniques are effective. If someone is looking for self-defense,
the skills that are taught help create a means of escape. This is essential in self-defense. Another
reason is that the exercises can be modified for injuries or age. Young or old, anyone can take part in jiu-
jitsu. Helio Gracie proved this by practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu until he passed at the age of 95 years old.
I would also recommend Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu because it is fun. I enjoy learning different techniques and I
also enjoy the comradery that I have with other students. I believe these are good reasons to
recommend Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to people.
While training in Jiu-Jitsu, I have noticed some changes throughout my life. As a result of my lessons, I
feel that I have become more calm and relaxed. The sense of relaxation and calm that I have learned
while in class has conveyed to my life outside of class. When I have a difficult situation, I try to take my
time and review my options. I have also found renewed interest in the martial arts. I find myself looking
for new techniques to try in class through the internet or through conversation with other people. I
have also found myself setting new goals. Each tip I receive is one step closer to achieving that next
goal. Whether it is a tip on my belt, towards better techniques, or in life.
As a black belt at LaVallee’s, I am truly grateful for the opportunity to get world class instruction through
World Jiu-Jitsu United. I enjoy what I learn and the people who teach it. I am also thankful that I am one
step closer to becoming a more balanced
martial artist in the dojo and in life.

Randy Revette

I JUST HAVE TO SAY!!!!
I LOVE TEAM SGARLATA !!!!

Every one does such a wonderful job and is so nice to talk to!!! I have seen such a difference in Erin!!!!
Im so proud of her and glad as well as proud to tell them about this dojo and how everyone and
everything she's learned has helped!!! Thanks To every one!!...!! Especially Mr & Mrs. Sgarlata, Mrs.
Burdick, Sensei Joe Passalaqua, Sensei Ed Begel, Justin and Jon!~!! Erin enjoys everyone but these
few really stick out to her and she talks about her "teachers" all the time! Thanks Everyone!!!!!

Jamielyn DePalma

Jennifer Nelson Stalsonberg:
Team Sgarlata is awesome! Nina loves karate at LaVallees!

Dawn Hutchinson:
LaVallee's has been a wonderful program for David and I. We are now training @ Cicero North and
we miss everyone at the Business Ave location (Shihod, Sinsei O, Sinsei Mr and Mrs. B and M.s
Burdick..). The program itself has been very rewarding for me. I now want to thank my newer
instructors, Thank You Master Sgar and Sinsei P, Sinsei McCale and Mr.Crouse (sp?) and Mr.
Newcomb for helping to make the journey to Black Belt an experience like no other. :)

Ellen Ciccarelli:
Dominick LOVES karate camp! I love the self confidence he has gained from kartate! It is such a
great program as a whole! Best thing we have ever done for our son! He loves being a member of
the BBC! "Lavallee's is the best martial arts school around! It is the Syracuse University of martial
arts!" Thanks TEAM SGARLATA!!!

Kelly Pike Beachner:
we ♥ LaVallee's !!! my daughter, Kaylyn Arielle, has been taking since march and it has become a
huge part of our lives !! thank you, Lavallee's !!!

To All of the Fantastic Staff at LaVallee’s,

It’s been about a week since we completed the 90 Day Fitness Challenge and I wanted to take a minute
to say thanks to all of you for making it such a great experience for all of us who participated. We had an
incredible variety of people who joined the class to get in shape and lose some weight. Whether you
were male or female, a long time student of LaVallee’s or coming to class for the very first time (like I
was), in good shape or out of shape (like I was), younger or older (like I am), we were all challenged to
do our best, to encourage each other and to keep our personal goals in sight. The end result was
amazing! I shed 22.9 lbs. and our class of 27 people lost a total of over 520 pounds in just 90 days.

This has been a life changing experience for me. I have renewed energy, better focus and the motivation
to stay physically active. I am truly looking forward to continuing my relationship with your wonderful
organization.

Sincerely,
Dave Lekki

Kevin McEntee:
I was in pretty good shape at the start of the program, but I was amazed at how much I improved and how much stronger I
feel. The intensity of the workouts allowed me to take my training to another level that I would not have reached on my own.

Shawn Plourde:
Being in my mid-30's, I never thought I could look and feel like I did in my Army days when I was in my early-20's. I look
great, and feel even better! I definitely couldn't have done it without Shihan Sgarlata, Master Sgarlata, Sensei P, and all the
other instructors. Their dedication and motivational support to this cause and to me along the way has been just as integral
to my success as the physical workouts themselves. Thank you for everything!
-Shawn Plourde, 37 pounds lighter.

Sue Vaughn:
I, a 65 year old woman, joined the 90 day Fitness Challenge and the high intensity exercises were a challenge to everyone,
young and old alike. If anyone had a problem and had to modify the workout in any way, the instructors were understanding
and helpful.I lost thirty pounds and am now leading a happier and healthier life. It has made me want to continue a new way
of life losing more weight with exercise and eating healthy. I have joined the current high intensity training workout and I
encourage everyone to try it, because if I can do it, you can too.

Thank you very much.