From Shy Newcomer to Black Belt Leader
Discover Anay Pai’s inspiring 9-year martial arts journey at Mastery Martial Arts in Troy, Michigan
Anay’s Inspiring Journey
From a shy 6-year-old who moved from India to a confident 15-year-old Black Belt leader, Anay’s story shows the transformative power of martial arts.
The Beginning
When Anay moved to Troy from India at age 6, he needed a place to make friends and learn how to connect with others. His parents chose Mastery Martial Arts, and it became the foundation for an incredible transformation.
“I joined because when I moved here from India, I needed a place to make friends and learn how to talk to others,” Anay recalls. What started as a way to build social connections became a journey of personal growth and leadership.
Overcoming Challenges
Anay’s journey wasn’t always easy. His biggest challenge came during his apprentice black belt test, which included a demanding 1-mile run and adapting to online testing during COVID-19.
“I overcame them by pushing through and telling myself that when I stay disciplined and committed, I’ll get the reward, it might take some time though,” Anay explains, showing the mental strength that martial arts helped him develop.
Leadership & Growth
Today, Anay leads the demo team and has become a role model for younger students. His most memorable moment was leading a Michigan team to victory at the Knight of Champions competition in May 2025.
“The life skill that I have improved the most in is Leadership, as before I would be afraid to speak up and share my opinions, now I handle the demo team which requires a lot of leadership, dedication and hard work.”
Anay’s insights from his martial arts journey
“When I think of giving up it means you are closer to unlocking a new level that you didn’t know you had in you.”
“To me black belt is more than just kicks and punches, it means hard work, dedication, and perseverance even when things get difficult.”
Why Parents Choose Martial Arts
See the same benefits Anay experienced in your child’s development
Builds Confidence
Like Anay, students develop self-assurance through achievement and recognition
Develops Leadership
Students learn to guide others and take responsibility, just as Anay leads the demo team
Teaches Discipline
Martial arts instills self-control and dedication that carries into school and home life
Encourages Goal Setting
The belt system provides clear milestones and teaches the value of long-term commitment
What Anay’s Parents Say
Over the past nine years at Mastery Martial Arts Troy, our son, Anay Pai, has experienced significant emotional growth. He has become more confident when speaking with others and has improved in expressing his emotions in a healthy, constructive way. We’ve observed greater self-control and an increased ability to handle a DEMO TEAM as a leader. His growth has been so evident that both younger students and some adults now look up to him as a role model.”
Start Your Child’s Journey Today
Give your child the same opportunities for growth, confidence, and leadership that Anay experienced. Get your 14-Day Confidence and Focus Kickstart at Mastery Martial Arts in Troy, Michigan.