WHY CHOOSE US?
At Golden Isles Martial Arts, we’re not just building martial artists—we’re helping kids become confident leaders and respectful teammates. Families across Brunswick and the Golden Isles choose us for our positive environment, expert instructors,
and life-changing results both on and off the mat.
CONFIDENCE THAT
LASTS A LIFETIME.
Our students don’t just get stronger physically—they gain the focus and self-esteem to thrive in school, at home, and in life.
CERTIFIED ATA BLACK BELT INSTRUCTORS.
Your child is in great hands. Our experienced team is patient, positive, and passionate about helping every student reach their full potential.
PROGRAMS FOR
AGES 4 AND UP
From Tiny Tigers to teens and adults, we offer age-specific classes in a safe, encouraging environment where every student can shine.
LOCAL. FAMILY FOCUSED. COMMUNITY DRIVEN.
We’re proud to serve Brunswick, St. Simons Island, and the entire Golden Isles community with flexible class times and a welcoming, family-first atmosphere.
MORE THAN JUST MARTIAL ARTS- IT'S A MINDSET.
Through structured training, leadership development, and goal setting, our students grow into strong, respectful individuals—on and off the mat.
LEADERSHIP
The ATA Leadership Program is designed to develop the next generation of confident, disciplined, and capable leaders—both on and off the mat. Open to both youth and adult students, this program goes beyond physical training by offering specialized classes that focus on personal growth, character development, and essential leadership skills. Participants receive additional instruction each week, including advanced martial arts techniques, public speaking, team-building exercises, and mentorship opportunities.
Students in the Leadership Program are challenged to set goals, take initiative, and become positive role models in their communities. Through this elevated training experience, they learn the value of commitment, respect, perseverance, and responsibility. Leadership students also have access to exclusive events, camps, and seminars that further reinforce these lessons.
For those interested in competition, the Leadership Program provides opportunities to earn points toward State, Regional, and World Champion titles, with a strong emphasis on excellence and sportsmanship. Custom uniforms featuring the student’s name and Leadership patches serve as a badge of honor, symbolizing their hard work and dedication.
Whether your goal is to become a future instructor, compete at a high level, or simply grow in confidence and leadership, the ATA Leadership Program offers a powerful path for personal transformation.
Interested in joining our Leadership team? Come take a class with us!
MEET THE TEAM
BILL + MENDI RUSH
Co-Owners | 3rd Degree Black Belts | Certified ATA Instructors
With over 20 years of experience in martial arts and instruction, Mendi and Bill are the passionate leaders behind Golden Isles Martial Arts. Both are 3rd Degree Black Belts in Taekwondo, Certified ATA Instructors, and have proudly earned multiple Florida State Championships as well as Top 10 World Rankings in competition.
Mendi began her journey in 2006 with the American Taekwondo Association, originally inspired by her daughter’s classes. After years of training and supporting from the sidelines, she stepped onto the mat herself—discovering not just a new passion, but a calling to teach. In 2011, she was invited by Master Lopez to open her first ATA club, and she’s been guiding students ever since.
Together, Bill and Mendi have trained hundreds of students, many of whom have reached the rank of Black Belt—including a few who’ve gone on to become World Champions.
Bill began his martial arts journey with early training in both Taekwondo and Karate, developing a strong foundation with an emphasis on sparring and competitive fighting. Over time, his passion for martial arts grew—especially when his wife and daughter became involved. Their interest sparked a deeper commitment, leading him to focus on forms and weapons, where he went on to compete nationally and earned multiple state championships in Florida.
He gained valuable experience assisting Mrs. Rush at a well-established Taekwondo school in Florida, where he supported instruction and student development. Now serving full-time at Golden Isles Martial Arts here in Georgia, Bill brings energy, dedication, and a family-centered approach to every class. His teaching style reflects the core values of Golden Isles Martial Arts: confidence, discipline, respect, and community.
Their mission is simple: to create a safe, empowering, and family-focused space where students of all ages can grow in confidence, discipline, and leadership.
