Kicksite Launches Gold Standard Scholarship to Invest in the Future of Martial Arts
A new program removes financial barriers for deserving youth students — and nominations are now open.
Martial arts has always been about more than belts and tournaments. For millions of young people around the world, training in a dojo builds discipline, confidence, and resilience that carry far beyond the mat. Today, Kicksite , a leading software and website services provider built exclusively for martial arts schools, is putting that belief into action with the launch of its Gold Standard Scholarship program.
The program is designed to recognize youth students who embody commitment and growth, and who make a positive impact on those around them. Scholarship recipients will receive direct financial support in the form of monthly tuition payments made straight to the martial arts school where they’re enrolled, removing one of the most common barriers to continued training.
Every student deserves the opportunity to grow, build confidence, and be part of something meaningful, regardless of their financial situation.”— Jason Neef, CEO, Kicksite
Neef says the scholarship reflects Kicksite’s broader purpose. “While our business focus is helping owners and instructors manage their academy, it’s not our sole purpose,” he explained. “Our overarching mission at Kicksite is to cement martial arts as a lifelong pursuit for every human being on the planet. We believe the Gold Standard Scholarship program helps us take a confident step in that direction.”
The case for investing in youth martial arts is well established. Beyond the physical benefits, training has long been associated with improved mental and emotional development , children and teens who participate regularly are shown to develop greater discipline, confidence, and behavioral self-regulation. For families who face financial barriers to structured training environments, those benefits can remain frustratingly out of reach. The Gold Standard Scholarship aims to change that.
How to nominate a student:
- Nominations may be submitted by owners or instructors at the student’s school
- The nomination window is open now through Friday, July 17, 2026
- Students are selected based on commitment, growth, and positive impact on others
- Recipients receive monthly tuition payments made directly to their enrolled school
School owners and instructors are encouraged to nominate the students in their programs who truly exemplify what martial arts is all about — the ones who show up consistently, support their teammates, and push through adversity. Full eligibility requirements and selection criteria are available on the Kicksite website.