GMA Academy is led by a family that has dedicated over 33 years to developing young people — academically, physically, and socially. Meet the team and tour our campus.
16+ certified staff, 3 generations, 33+ years of combined experience in youth development and education.
57 years in youth development. Hall of Fame inducted (2006), US Presidential Award (2003), California State Senate Award. Developed hundreds of student leaders and 8 national champions.
33+ Years Experience
B.S. Child Development from Cal State Fullerton (1995). 16+ years working with children with disabilities. Directs the After School Program, parent consultations, and co-authored the "Leonard the Little Lion" children's books.
Degreed Child Dev Expert
3rd Dan Black Belt TaeKwonDo and Blue Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. CPR, Medical, and First Aid certified. Instructs across GMA's martial arts programs, representing the next generation of the Spillmann family tradition.
3rd Dan Black Belt Medical AssistantAll staff fully background checked and verified
Current CPR and First Aid certification
Certified Red Cross Medical Assistant on staff
Three decades of experience with special needs children
A purpose-built facility designed for academics, fitness, enrichment, and safety.
Family events and clubs that strengthen bonds and build belonging.
Drop your kids off for a supervised evening of games, movies, and fun while you enjoy a night out. Monthly events.
Family-focused events and activities that bring parents and children together for team building and shared experiences.
A supportive community for moms with workshops, social events, and resources designed to connect and empower.
Father-focused events and activities building mentorship, camaraderie, and leadership among dads in the community.
A bit more about who we are, our credentials, and our track record.
Over 33 years. The Spillmann family has been developing youth in Middle Tennessee since 1993, initially through martial arts and community programs, and expanding into academic and after school programs over the decades.
The Spillmann family leads GMA, with Grand Master Konrad Spillmann (9th Degree Black Belt, Kukkiwon Certified) and Joanne Spillmann (B.S. Child Development, 16+ years special needs experience) directing day-to-day operations. Our team of 16+ certified staff brings over 33 combined years of youth development experience.
Every staff member is background-checked, CPR and First Aid certified. We have a certified Red Cross Medical Assistant on-site. Our instructors are Kukkiwon certified (World Taekwondo), IBJJF registered (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu), and Safe Sport certified. Our Director of Child Development holds a B.S. in Child Development.
Voted Best in Sumner County 2024 and 2025, Hall of Fame Recognized Program, Presidential Award for Community Service, and multiple community recognitions for our 33+ years of youth development work.
