How One Coach Turned His Passion Into a Program That’s Shaping Fond du Lac Youth
by SFW · 11/2/2025
This week in The Faces of Our Future, I caught up with my old friend TJ Lee, who I’ve known since our days back at Parkside Elementary. TJ’s story is one of passion, discipline, and giving back. What started as a love for martial arts turned into a mission to help kids right here in Fond du Lac. From training students in his garage to building a growing MMA program that teaches respect, confidence
I’ve known TJ Lee since we were kids running around Parkside Elementary here in Fond du Lac. Even back then, he had that kind of energy that stood out, the type that made you think, yeah, he’s going to do something cool one day. Fast forward to today, and TJ’s turned that energy into something that’s making a real impact on the next generation: teaching kids mixed martial arts.
TJ told me it all started because of his brother, a professional wrestler who went by the name The White Dragon. “He inspired me to be something great,” TJ said. “We had an MMA gym in town, so I stopped in at Unified Martial Arts and instantly fell in love with it.” Not long after, a parent asked him how their kid could get involved in MMA. There weren’t any programs for kids in Fond du Lac at the time, so TJ started training the student right out of his garage. “Next thing I knew,” he laughed, “my garage was full of kids learning MMA.” From there, his old coach Mike Biddle and Molly Tynan from Knockouts Women’s Kickboxing Studio offered him space to officially start a kids’ program, and the rest is history.
Today, TJ has four boys of his own who also train in martial arts. He’s competed in MMA, kickboxing, and jiu-jitsu, but now he’s focused on passing on what he’s learned. “Respect and discipline come first,” he said. “Once kids get that, the rest is easy.” His ultimate goal is simple, to help every student who walks through his doors grow, both as fighters and as people. “I want to see each of my students become more successful than I’ve been,” TJ said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
Related articles
Fond du Lac's Jack Brenner Is Headed to the Big Leagues
Fond du Lac's own Jack Brenner has officially signed with the Atlanta Braves, turning years of hard work and dedication into the opportunity to play professional baseball. His journey is an inspiring reminder that big dreams can start in small communities, and the entire Fond du Lac area will be cheering him on as he begins his next chapter.
by Shane Michael · Jul 17, 2026
Looking for Something Fun to Do? Go Bowling!
Whether it's a family outing, date night, or a rainy-day activity, Ledgeview Lanes and Parkway Lanes offer much more than bowling, with arcades, great food, and fun for all ages. It's an easy way to make lasting memories, proving that sometimes the best nights are the simplest ones.
by Shane Michael · Jul 10, 2026
Things to Do with Kids in Fond du Lac: Spend a Day at Fondy Sports Park
When people ask me where they should take their kids for a fun day in Fond du Lac, Fondy Sports Park is always one of the first places that comes to mind. It's one of those places that has a little bit of everything, so whether your kids love racing, climbing, golfing, or just running around outside, there's plenty to keep them busy.
by Shane Michael · Jul 4, 2026
Leave a reply
Be the first to comment
Your email address won't be published. Required fields are marked *.