About
Kovar Systems
Helping Martial Arts School Owners Build Successful Businesses Since 1994
For over 30 years, we've been the trusted partner for martial arts school owners who want to grow their businesses while staying true to their values.
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Our Story
Founded in 1994 by Hanshi Dave Kovar, Kovar Systems was born from a simple belief: martial arts school owners shouldn't have to choose between their passion for teaching and building a successful business.
Dave Kovar started his martial arts journey in 1978 and quickly realized that being an exceptional martial artist didn't automatically translate to business success. Through years of trial, error, and eventual triumph, he developed the systems and strategies that transformed not only his own schools but thousands of others worldwide.
Today, Kovar Systems is the leading provider of business coaching, training programs, and resources specifically designed for martial arts school owners who want to make a real impact in their communities while building profitable, sustainable businesses.
Our Mission
We help martial arts school owners improve every aspect of their business through proven systems that focus on student acquisition, student retention, and staff development—all while maintaining the integrity and values that make martial arts special.
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Our Impact
Since 1994, we've helped thousands of martial arts school owners:
Meet Our Founder
Hanshi Dave Kovar
Founder & 9th-Degree Black Belt
Dave Kovar is recognized worldwide as the "Teacher of Teachers" in the martial arts industry. A 9th-degree Black Belt with rankings in 10 different martial arts styles, Dave has dedicated his life to mastering both the art and business of martial arts.
He successfully manages multiple martial arts schools in California while leading the Kovar Systems team that serves thousands of school owners across three continents. Dave's passion for giving back to the industry he loves drives everything we do at Kovar Systems.
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Our Leadership Team
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Vincent Bardini
Client Manager
Former Program Director turned Client Manager, Vincent understands the challenges of running a martial arts school and uses his experience to help school owners nationwide achieve their growth goals.
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Tim Leard
Lead Success Coach
A 5th-degree Black Belt specializing in staff development, Tim has guided many instructors through their certification journey and helps schools build stronger teaching teams.
Our Coaching Team
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Dave Kovar
Founder & Ascend Coach
Julie Alexander
Success Coach & COO of Kovar's Inc.
Elaine Warrener
Success Coach/Head of Program Director Certification
Paul Duarte
Success Coach
Ilya Mir
Success Coach
Jason Duarte
Success Coach
Mariah Faris-Higa
Success Coach
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Kelli Brown
Success Coach
Why Choose Kovar Systems?
Real-World Experience
Our advice comes from actually running successful martial arts schools, not just theory. We understand your challenges because we've faced them ourselves.
Proven Track Record
Over 30 years of helping thousands of martial arts school owners grow their businesses with integrity-based systems that work.
Comprehensive Solutions
From marketing and sales to operations and staff development, we provide complete business solutions specifically designed for martial arts schools.
Values-Based Approach
We help you grow your business while staying true to martial arts values—no high-pressure tactics or compromising your principles.
Ready to Transform Your Martial Arts School?
Join thousands of successful school owners who trust Kovar Systems to help them build thriving martial arts businesses.