A local martial arts studio is not just focused on building strength and skill, but also on keeping youth away from violence and negative influences. Recently, Level Up MMA & Fitness found itself in the midst of a dangerous situation when bullets from a nearby shootout pierced its walls. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the incident served as a stark reminder of the important work being done in the gym.
Ernest Arguello, the owner of Level Up MMA & Fitness, said opening the gym in the neighborhood where he grew up was crucial to him.
“I went to Harlandale, you know, rough neighborhoods,” Arguello explained. “The biggest thing is giving back to the community.”
Located off Pleasanton Road, the gym offers more than just martial arts training. Arguello’s mission is to provide a positive environment where individuals, especially young men and women, can gain life skills that go beyond fighting.
“A lot of people think we’re teaching violence, but we’re not. We’re teaching how to deal with life in general,” Arguello said.
The gym’s mission took on new urgency on the evening of February 18, when a shootout broke out next door at Total Wireless. San Antonio police reported that an armed suspect began shooting at a clerk, who returned fire. Several bullets struck the walls of the gym, where a class was in session. Thankfully, no one was harmed.
Richard Thomas, one of the students present that night, recalled the moment of panic.
“Like the coach said, a bullet landed right in front of him. Thankfully, no one got hurt,” Thomas said. “It was very scary, and it was a quick reality check for us.”
Thomas, who had been surrounded by bad influences growing up, reflected on how joining the gym had impacted his outlook on life.
“I wasn’t a good kid at all. I was a ‘necio,’ they would say. I would always get in trouble,” Thomas admitted. “But joining the gym has changed my mindset. It keeps me humble and keeps my mind straight.”
For Thomas, the experience at Level Up MMA & Fitness serves as a reminder to stay aware and stay prepared, especially when faced with dangerous situations.
“A lot of times trouble doesn’t give a warning. It makes me more aware of my surroundings and makes sure I’m good in bad situations,” Thomas said.
He expressed hope that the individuals involved in the shooting would recognize the opportunity for change, just as he did.
“It was a bad situation,” Thomas said. “I hope those kids better themselves. We don’t want anyone to get hurt over violence.”
With a strong sense of community and a focus on personal growth, Arguello and his gym continue to be a source of strength and support for the youth in the area, offering them a chance to rise above the challenges they face.
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