TIGER Academy of Martial Arts

5801 Portsmouth Blvd, Portsmouth, VA 23701, USA

4.7 (91 reviews)

Disciplines

Gi Muay Thai Self-Defense

Classes

Adults Classes Black Belt Instruction

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

Access

Free Trial

Serving the communities of Chesapeake, Portsmouth & Suffolk, our martial arts classes are excellent choices for self-defense, discipline, and fitness for all ages & fitness levels.

Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at TIGER Academy of Martial Arts. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.

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Reviews

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Jennifer Yazvac

Our daughter started attending classes at Tiger Academy Martial Arts approximately 2-3 months ago. It was a decision that came with a lot of deliberation. We have had some incidences on the bus, some things at school, some things at aftercare. All things that definitely upset me as a parent. Things that made me just want to shrink myself and put myself into her pocket so I could pop out when necessary. I know that's just not possible. After these Incidents we talked to officials at all places. They try their best at all these places. Unfortunately they just cannot be everywhere all the time to keep other children from acting like arses. Witty comebacks and telling the teachers, officials etc is just not enough in today's climate. We came and checked out Tiger Academy of Martial Arts. Staff is super pleasant and attentive. We did the two week trial. We watched the classes and talked to our daughter. We decided to sign up for classes. A couple of weeks ago an incident happened at school during lunch. Two children (one a play date friend) one a classmate. One pushed her. One was talking rude and accusing her of cheating at thr game they were playing. Let me tell you what happened: She not stood her ground. She calmly spoke to both children. She called the one on his language and cheating accusations. Calling him on havingngame rules he told no one. She calmly talked to her friend who pushed her and told her flat out. Not to touch her physically because no one has the right to do that to anyone. What happened was a shock to me. Both children actually responded in a positive manner. They were all able to move forward. When she came home and told me about the incident I have never been more proud of her. She told me that stood up for herself because of Tiger Martial Arts. She said what she learns in class helped her feel confident enough to handle the moment. Between the student creed, classes the amazing Sensei's and staff , home practice and friendship and family atmosphere, we have definitely landed in the right place. What our daughter was able to do in the moment rl is priceless. It's a step towards a positive correct direction of not taking any shit off anyone. I highly recommend checking them out. It could change your kids life.
Posted 1 year ago
Emily Venoit

My kids have taken JiuJitsu here for a year now and the coaches have worked so well with them. The facility is clean and the staff is excellent. I began Muay Thai a few months ago and I’m loving it. So thankful for Tiger Academy and all they do.
Posted 2 years ago
Julianna McCarthy

It's been over a year since our family began training at Tiger Academy and it has been a wonderful experience! The instructors are patient and helpful, and both kids and adult classes have been amazing for us. Can't say enough good things about the Camden family and the way they run their business. I'm so glad we found such a great resource to start our Jiu Jitsu journey!

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Posted 2 years ago
Lauryn M.

My daughters have been participating in both the after-school pick-up program and summer camp, and we couldn't be happier with the experience. The entire team, from the front desk staff to the instructors, is incredibly welcoming and friendly. We love being part of the Tiger community!
Posted 2 years ago
Josh Miers

I've been training here since 2009 and I love it. The instruction is top notch and the owner makes sure that we have no knuckleheads on the mat hurting people. If you want to learn technical Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a family friendly atmosphere, this is the place.

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Posted 2 years ago
Yuliya Stepanov

Great academy! My husband loves it and I am happy to see he enjoys it so much! Recommend for adults and kids! Thank you Eddie and the team!

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Posted 3 years ago
Adam Martin

Highly recommend- The Awesome Jiu Jitsu here is only overshadowed by the awesome people. I came here as a purple belt- I have other experiences of which to measure against. Look no further, this is where you’ll want to be.

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Posted 3 years ago
SideshowBob

Can't say enough good things about this place! My son was very defiant, rude and argumentive. We enrolled him in karate at about age 7, then jujitsu later. He's now almost 9 and has improved greatly in his attitude and confidence. He's much more polite and respectful while still being himself. Even if we do have a spat of the old behavior issues, they are short lived. Plus he absolutely loves it! He's really thrived here. These instructors care about these kids and want them to succeed. Will say it's a bit more pricey then most after school programs, but with the classes, offers more. The saying holds true, you get what you pay for! Glad my child is enrolled here
Posted 3 years ago
Andres Cuellar

Tiger Academy is a great school to all ages. They have amazing instructors that focus on developing your own strengths.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Gio Continanza (Gio)

Everyone who trains here is friendly, supportive, and eager to help each other succeed. Whether you're a seasoned martial artist or a complete beginner, you'll feel right at home here. I can't recommend this gym enough. If you're looking for a place to learn, get in shape, and make some new friends, look no further!

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Posted 3 years ago
Dominick Smith

Amazing classes, amazing instructors and friendly environment!

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Posted 3 years ago
Keith Chappell

Awesome Group of Folks !!

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Posted 4 years ago
Zurishaddai Yisrael

The teaching is awesome and the people are great.

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Posted 4 years ago
T

One of the best self defense schools I've trained at. The instructors are very attentive to the students. There is a team/family vibe that is evident when you walk in. You can tell everyone who trains here really cares about learning Jiu Jitsu. The higher belts are very patient and eager to help. It is a little pricey, but I believe the knowledge and confidence that you will gain after training here for even one year is well worth it. I love this place and can't wait to train every day that I have class. I will for sure be a long time member.

Instructors Facility Pricing Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Bryan Prewitt

As a 54 year old who decided to learn BJJ for self defense, I can attest that Tiger Academy has built an amazing culture of instruction. Everyone in the academy is focused on helping students learn the art. Kyle, the combatives instructor, is terrific. I’ve also learned a lot from the advanced belts who attend beginner classes just to offer guidance during drills, as well as my fellow white belts who focus on getting the techniques right during drills, not building their egos. The focus of combatives is real world self defense application, and the instruction meets the objectives

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Posted 4 years ago
Danda Funk

The Tiger Academy is by far the best martial arts school in the area. It provides top notch instruction in Gracie Jiujitsu, I can't think of anywhere else I would rather train at!

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Posted 5 years ago
John Lyman

Our kids love Tiger Academy - they look forward to going and learning. The instructors make the learning so much fun while teaching keeping the kids attention. All the staff are top notch. Highly recommend Tiger -

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Posted 5 years ago
Josh Segars

I started trading at 43 with no martial arts experience. This school is perfect for all! Plenty of extremely talented martial artists at high levels and other regular guys like me. It is a very welcoming environment but as challenging as you want. When I leave, I can’t wait until the next class. I am in the best shape of my life after training for 2.5 years. If you have always wanted to try BJJ, but aren’t sure where, Eddie Camden at Tiger Academy is your place! Stop waiting until next year when you have more time. Now!

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Posted 5 years ago
Robert Bogino

Ive trained here for 14 years. Literally the best BJJ school for self defense. Great group of instructors. Also I might add the cleanest school Ive ever trained in by far!

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Posted 5 years ago
W C

Excellent professional instructors teaching technical jiu jitsu, great training partners, very clean facility, friendly atmosphere. If you are interested in Helio Gracie jiu jitsu for self defense this is your place.

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Posted 5 years ago
FlameTreeGlass

Tiger Academy of Martials Arts/ Gracie Atlanta is absolutely awesome! I have trained there, so my review is from personal experience. Professor Eddie Camden is of genuine Gracie Jiujitsu lineage. Professor Eddie is very close and dear to the Gracie Jiujitsu family, and to his hundreds of students all over the world, and to myself. The training environment is the epitome of masterful technique, professionalism, and safety. I highly reccomend this Gracie Jiujitsu school.

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Posted 5 years ago
Hayden Gardner

Great instructors, great people, great environment, great training, 10000/10 recommend for everyone

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Posted 5 years ago
Tomislav Ignatov

Listen Listen Listen… I have been attending this academy for 6 years and this place is absolutely Fantastic ! This is where you want to train if you want to learn the highest quality detail jiu jitsu hands down. Master Sifu aka. Eddie Camden is exceptional in providing the world with high quality martial arts and self discipline like no other! If you don’t catch his classes you still have the real tiger of Tiger Academy Joey Weigel which is another monster of unbelievable skill and teaching ability which will transform anybody’s life and show you how to be a high level grappler . Everyone in this academy is like family and will always show love and respect on and off the mat. Don’t think! Just jump in and train because you will be in the highest level academy on the east coast.

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Posted 5 years ago
Craig R. Dawson

I'm on my 18th year of training at Tiger Academy. The teaching is first rate, the academy is always clean, and that staff is helpful and courteous. If you want to learn Jiu-jitsu, with a strong focus on self-defense, longevity, and fundamentals that anyone can master there is no place better. Also worth noting, Tiger attracts some of the top jiu-jitsu practitioners in the world to teach seminars and share their knowledge and experience. See below, Royce Gracie visiting and teaching a seminar in 2020.

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Posted 5 years ago
Jay Suarez

I’ve been a member of Tiger Academy since 2013. Not only that I have learned jiu-jitsu but have also made amazing friends that I consider my extended family. This is a great place for kids and adults to learn self defense as well as to be part of a great community of people that care for each other. The staff, Eddie, Marvin, Joey, Kyle are great people and great teachers. I strongly recommend Tiger Academy to all families looking to learn this martial art.

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Posted 5 years ago
Tara Freiman

high calibre environment with the finest instruction. best way to gain confidence, self-defense, and make friends.

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Posted 5 years ago
paul fragakis

I have been training martial arts for over 40 years. There is no question that Tiger Academy is the best school I've ever been to. Sifu Eddie Camden is a prodigy and, most importantly, the best teacher and communicator or the arts I have observed. This is also a Family centric atmosphere with great facilities and it's a superior value.

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Posted 5 years ago
Tara Schultz

Excellent instruction and facility! Tiger Academy is best of the best. Highly recommended. Family friendly, a place for everyone!

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Posted 5 years ago
Jaime Serna Ramirez.

Hello . ihave a girl in training and about to have my son. As well. Nice place very friendly staff. God bless.

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Posted 5 years ago
Robert Barnes

Great core BJJ instruction for kids. Extremely knowledgable instructors who are really patient teaching kids the technical moves of BJJ. Very clean, extremely friendly and a relaxed learning environment where kids can safely learn.My 3 kids love it here.

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Posted 6 years ago
Jason Brock

Amazing Academy to train in. From the Head Instructor Eddie to the students everyone was welcoming and worked to improve together. Great vibe!

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Posted 6 years ago
Seth Horne

This is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, at its finest. There a more martial arts studios around town than you could possibly name. The difference is in the quality of the instruction you receive. By quality, I mean caring enough to teach you the right way. The huge difference maker with Tiger Academy is their program for children. This is not rote repetition or board breaking. This is ground up jiu jitsu fundamentals geared toward kids. They learn how to handle bullies and how to perform the basic building blocks. Don't expect belts to be handed out. You have to put your time in. All children should have the opportunity to learn from such great instructors. Check this place out, if you want to learn the right way.

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Posted 7 years ago
Eugene

Great school! Great teachers! My son and I go there and enjoy! Appreciate guys!

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Posted 7 years ago
Drew Fischbach

Simply the best experience. I can not express enough how amazing this place is! Not only is the staff top notch, extremely informative with more combined experience than any other gym (probably in the USA if not the world). All instructors are humble with no ego; excellent teachers with patience and help for everyone from children and students starting out to seasoned veterans. ADD to that a community of students that are friendly and eager to help one another progress and grow in there Jiu Jitsu journey. This place is all positive, fun, smiles and great vibes - Cheers FISH!

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Posted 7 years ago
Stuart Gray

Great self-defense school! Excellent group and great instructors.

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Posted 8 years ago
Marcelo Naliati

Great place for kids to learn Martial Arts.

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Posted 8 years ago
Royce Gracie

Thanks for continue spreading the art that my father developed.

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Posted 8 years ago
D

The Jiujitsu taught by Eddie Camden and staff is authentic Gracie Jiujitsu. I enjoy the curriculum and organization provided with the Gracie University program is implemented here. Putting the Jiujitsu aside, the environment here at Tiger is top notch. Everyone is there to learn and to help one another. It doesn't matter about your athletic level or how in shape you are, Tiger Academy has a place for YOU. They want to see everyone succeed at both Jiujitsu and everything else life tends to throw your way. Gracie Jiujitsu is a lifestyle, and one that will improve every aspect of your life, if you let it.. Thank you Tiger Academy!

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Posted 8 years ago
Jason Steele

I've been training at Tiger Academy for over a year now and I couldn't be more happy with my decision to join. The level of instruction from Eddie and his staff is top notch. If you're looking for a place to begin your jiu jitsu journey this is definitely the place to start.

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Posted 8 years ago
Steve Brown

I am a long time student at Tiger Academy in Roswell which can only be described as top notch and professional, as reflected in their chief instructor Sifu Eddie Camden and his students. Great atmosphere...great School!

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Posted 8 years ago
T

One of the best self defense schools I've trained at. The instructors are very attentive to the students. There is a team/family vibe that is evident when you walk in. You can tell everyone who trains here really cares about learning Jiu Jitsu. The higher belts are very patient and eager to help.

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Posted 9 years ago
William Hill

Great instruction in a friendly, welcoming environment. If you want to learn high quality self defense jiu jitsu with great people in a wonderful environment. You can't do better than Tiger Academy.

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Posted 9 years ago
Mayte Suarez

I've been training at this amazing academy for almost 4 years now. Great teachers and very family friendly people. NO egos at this place and very very technical (and that's what I need as a girl) I felt welcome as soon as I started training and now my kids and husband do to. I recommend it to every friend I have and would say this is the best REAL self defense a woman can learn. If you have girls going to college, make them take at least 1 yr of classes here and the'll be able to handle pretty much every nasty situation, starting with self awareness and empowerment.

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Posted 9 years ago
Evan Lazzara

Eddie Camden provides world class Gracie Jiu Jitsu along with a clean family friendly environment. The team at Tiger is amazing and the atmosphere is incredibly welcoming. You really can't ask for much more.

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Posted 9 years ago
Kyle Yu

The instruction is top notch. Everyone is friendly and helpful. Great jiu jitsu.

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Posted 9 years ago
K Pittman

You will not find a comparable program in the Atlanta area. Tiger offers outstanding technical instruction in a great facility and in a family friendly environment.

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Posted 9 years ago
Brett Moses

If you are looking for effective martial arts self-defense training, for yourself and/or your family, Tiger is the place. The kids classes are disciplined and fun and the adult programs are organized and cogent. Using techniques proven in the real world, by the famous Gracie family and others, Sifu Eddie Camden has created a program taught in a clean and positive environment.

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Posted 9 years ago
BT Studios

I walked into Tiger Academy in 2000 on a whim, not really looking seriously. When I moved from Atlanta in 2008, I had established eight years of a very solid foundation in Muay Thai and Gracie Jiu-jitsu. Eddie Camden runs a clean, high energy, family oriented school that's absolutely full of talent. I highly recommend Eddie's school and program to anyone who's serious about learning real world self-defense skills in a professional and welcoming environment.

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Posted 9 years ago
Brad Hobbs

In a nutshell: High integrity, high quality, and high passion! No better place to learn self-defense. You'll be challenged and your confidence will grow. Safe and clean family atmosphere for ladies and children!

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Posted 9 years ago
Nathan Causey

Simply the best. After only a few classes you will be walking more confidently. The instructors are awesome and the class environment is top notch. Higher level belts often train with the new guys and help them nail the moves. Everyone is super encouraging and patient as they help you learn all of the fundamentals.

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Posted 9 years ago
claudio tafolla

I have train in most of the schools in the Atlanta area and this one has to be one of the best school in Georgia. Super friendly atmosphere, no meat heads and amazing high level instructors. The owner Eddie Camden a legend in the martial art industry makes you feel so welcomed and explains all the moves in such a way that you feel like your getting it from the source. I definitely recommend this school if your starting out or if your an experience grappler.

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Posted 9 years ago
Paul Fragakis

Over 40 years involved in martial arts and this is the best place I've ever trained!

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Posted 9 years ago
Ralek Gracie

Eddie is a stand up guy and a real martial artist... He lives it and breathes it and I'm always excited to visit his academy when in town.

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Posted 9 years ago
Wesley Locke

One of the few gyms that still teach classic Helio Gracie Jiu Jitsu. If you want to learn true jiujitsu, come to Tiger.

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Posted 9 years ago
Stuart Wolf

Dang!!!! What a great school for learning traditional Brazilian jiu jitsu. Clean environment and a friendly staff make for a fun and healthy experience.

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Posted 9 years ago
R.J. F.

Tiger Academy is a terrific academy to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu from a true expert. Whether you are new to the art or transferring from another academy and have experience already, you can grow your Jiu Jitsu at Tiger without a doubt. They have terrific black belt students that roll regularly and the owner/instructor has a great teaching style and world-class Jiu Jitsu knowledge. I have been training for about 9 years and have been to many academies throughout the nation, Tiger Academy is one of the best -- very clean and a great environment. Check it out!

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Posted 9 years ago
Spartan11710

10 day trial and ive already learned so much. Prices are reactivity low due to how much they teach you. Everyone there is nice and will teach you even if you are new. I would highly recommend.

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Posted 10 years ago
Paul O'Sullivan

I've been attending classes consistently for the past couple of months and I really enjoy it. The instruction is outstanding. When you're here, you're treated like family. Come take a class!

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Posted 10 years ago
Rafael Zabala

This place is AMAZING. My Son Elijah has been going since he is 6 years old. I am so grateful for the attention, life lessons, and self defense that him and his friends have been learning over the years. I look forward to him one day being a black belt.

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Posted 10 years ago
Susan Javier

We recently moved to Roswell from the Boston. My son wanted to get back into Martial Arts. I did my research and we are very happy to be part of the Tiger Academy family. All the families and their kids are really committed and so are the instructors. You come in and you are immediately treated well and respectful. My son loves what he has learned so far and we look forward for many year at Tiger Academy. Instructors are AMAZING.

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Posted 11 years ago
David Reed

Amazing place for Ju Jitsu - each and every class is outstanding. My 7yr old daughter looks forward to every class and is learning the absolute fundamentals of grappling while having a blast. Cannot recommend Eddie and Tiger Academy enough.

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Posted 12 years ago
Corey Perlman

I've been at Tiger Academy in Roswell for a little over three months now and it's been one of the best experiences I've ever had. My biggest reservation in joining was starting from scratch and getting injured. The instructors are top notch and every person I've trained with there has been helpful and respectful. I've never once been put in a position over my head and the curriculum is set up for every level to get the practice and experience they need. Don't wait - get in here and see for yourself. You'll love it. Sincerely, Corey

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Posted 14 years ago
Bryan Morton

Prior to ever coming in I reached out for pricing. Was told they have a great deal, 2 weeks with uniform for $49. I tell them my concern is long term affordability, and I need to know pricing after the trial. The tell me it’s $155/ month. We come in, my daughter loves it, we complete the trial, the they tell me it’s $350 to join, plus more money monthly.
Posted 1 year ago
Kevin Nolan

Be very careful what you sign! I moved out of state 3 months ago and Tiger Academy is still charging my card. Stating a technicality from when I provided the proof of my move. I left over 3 months ago and have shown my lease agreement from December 2nd, but sent it late so they are still pulling from my account. Unfair and dirty in my opinion. My requests have been met with lawyer type responses. It ain't family over there.

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Posted 1 year ago
Mary Maier

Tiger Academy continues to charge my credit card after several attempts over several months to cancel!

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Posted 4 years ago
Mary Maier

Tiger Academy continues to charge my credit card after several attempts over several months to cancel! Sir you accepted my credit card from my underaged son!

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Posted 4 years ago