"It is truly an honor to write a recommendation for Sensei Richard Dixon. I have known Sensei Dixon for 27 years and have worked directly with him on a variety of leadership, education, music, martial arts, athletic, and community development projects. He is multi-talented, driven, focused, and committed to excellence in his work. His values and dedication to teaching students of all ages are of the highest caliber. Sensei Dixon works tirelessly to educate and enhance the lives of his students. To learn from Sensei Dixon is to learn from a true legend, from a man who's beliefs are rarely found in today's society. Sensei Dixon is widely re-knowned and respected for his tremendous achievements. He is a hero.  The quality of altruism is what it means to be selfless; to give in order to create a stronger and more enriched community. As an international-award winning researcher on the topic of leadership, I look to Sensei Dixon for inspiration. He is a role model of what all leaders should be." David Gliddon, Ph.D.


"I wanted to show my daughter, Olivia, the importance of protecting herself in today’s world. She joined at the age of five, and I followed a while later. We were new to the area and being part of the dojo has given us many wonderful friends and family. For me, it is so much a part of my life; I couldn’t imagine my life without it. I am confident, physically fit and am both mentally and physically strong. Sensei Rich gives his heart to teaching everyone, which makes us feel valued in our training. He really goes out of his way to make sure that you are happy and will do anything he can to help you achieve your goals. My daughter loves him and looks forward to his classes all of the time."  May Goebel


"My son is 4 years old & has been in the lil sidekicks class for almost a year. I think karate is the perfect activity, especially for young children....the class provides my son an opportunity to use up some of his endless energy, and he is learning about self-control & self-discipline at the same time.  Karate provides him with an environment that helps to build his self-esteem, but also helps him to learn how to be a good sport. His instructor is very good with engaging the children, and is a very positive influence & role model for them. I highly recommend Back Mountain Martial Arts."   Danielle Bennett


"Master Dixon is not content to rest upon his laurels. He continually seeks out the deeper meanings of the martial arts and desires to share it with his students.  There are many opportunities available for students to compete, learn and grow. It would be difficult for any one student to utilize all that is available for them."  David Obaza


"I have studied under Master Dixon for over five years. In this time, I have seen him demonstrate unbelievable selflessness and generosity toward everyone he encounters. He is truly a great man and I am proud to be called his student. His dedication to his art, organization, and all the people under him is incredible." Daniel Siblini


"Hello. My name is Brian Healey and my son, Shane, expressed interest in the martial arts when he was four years old. After researching our options in the area, my wife and I happily decided upon Sensei Rich's dojo.

First of all, let me state that I am a believer in the martial arts if one has the right teacher. There are too many martial arts instructors operating today that will teach you how to fight, but not many will teach you why or when to fight. And that is the difference that sets Master Dixon apart from the rest. Master Dixon teaches his students the subtleties of martial arts philosophy and the importance of the word honor.

I have watched my son achieve confidence and self-discipline over the two years that I have known Sensei Rich. More importantly, I have watched my son grow intellectually and morally strong as well as physically strong."  Brian P. Healey

“My two children and I have been studying under Master Richard Dixon for the past few years and I am amazed at how much we have learned so far from his vast knowledge of the Martial Arts.  I have enjoyed working with him as an assistant instructor and watching his school grow rapidly.  We all work together as a well-oiled family friendly company to make it successful, which couldn’t happen without the leadership of Master Dixon.  I have yet to see anyone who truly has the passion that he does in making sure everything is learned and not just taught.  You don’t need to see the many certifications that Master Dixon has earned over the years, to know how qualified an instructor he is.  Experience his teachings; watch his students giving him the respect he deserves; and the knowledge they have learned to make them better people.  Master Dixon is a highly trained, well-respected and honored instructor and an empowering person”   Jackie Soper

"It is an honor for us to give a recommendation for Master Dixon. He has been our daughter’s, Shelby, karate instructor for several years now. He has much passion for what he does, and it shows through his devotion to the art, not just physically but emotionally, and also through his interactions with his students, and striving for them to always achieve their very best. He teaches his students practical self-defense lessons, and focuses on good discipline, respect and developing self-confidence. He is a magnificent teacher who possesses much knowledge, wisdom, skill & experience in the martial arts field."   Anne & Kelly Traver