The Wells County Chamber of Commerce, alongside its ambassadors, proudly hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of Progeny Martial Arts in Ossian. The event marked more than the launch of a new business — it represented the culmination of decades of training, mentorship, and vision now firmly rooted in Wells County. ProgenyDojo Martial Arts is led by CEO Liza Lee and her husband, Sensei Chris Lee, who serves as head coach and instructor. Together, they have built the academy around a shared commitment to faith, family, discipline, and community investment.
“There’s something in the water in Ossian — something in Wells County,” Chris shared during the ceremony. “When you look at the disproportionate number of state championships that come out of this county — whether it’s basketball, wrestling, or other sports — it’s incredible. This community produces people who are resilient, hardworking, and committed to excellence.”
For the Lees, opening Progeny Dojo Martial Arts locally was not simply a business decision — it was a calling. After 25 years devoted to martial arts — training, competing, coaching, and developing under world-renowned leadership — Chris felt led to bring a championship-caliber system home. “I’ve invested my life in this,” he said. “Liza has walked that journey with me. Our kids have grown up around it. When people asked, ‘Why here?’ the answer was simple — this is where we live. We want to contribute to Ossian in a meaningful way.”
Progeny Dojo Martial Arts offers a Bang Muay Thai membership that provides access to all striking classes, including Bang Muay Thai, BMT Bags, and Spar Drills. Bang Muay Thai is recognized worldwide as a premier striking system, used by champions and martial artists alike. Inspired by Bas Rutten and developed by Sensei Duane Ludwig, the system is now taught locally under Sensei Chris Lee. BMT Bags is a focused 25-minute session emphasizing precision, mechanics, and technique, while Spar Drills develop timing, rhythm, distance, and real-time application in a safe, structured environment.
While the academy supports a competitive fight team, Chris emphasized that the core mission is personal growth and character development. “Martial arts gets misunderstood,” he said. “It’s not about aggression — it’s about alignment: physical, mental, and spiritual. The goal is to make a person good, and then be strong.” Structure and discipline are central to every class. Students bow before and after training as a symbol of mutual respect and accountability. “When we bow and look someone in the eye, we’re acknowledging the power of what we’re learning. This isn’t about creating chaos — it’s about raising people who can navigate it responsibly.”
Faith is a cornerstone of the academy’s identity. The Progeny logo, a phoenix encircling a cross, reflects resilience rooted in spiritual grounding. “Faith is the root system,” Chris said. “Martial arts helps people navigate life’s pressures and challenges. With faith as the anchor, you grow strong in body and spirit and can face any situation with confidence.”
The academy also offers youth programs designed to build discipline, confidence, and respect. Little Ninjas Kickboxing introduces children to foundational striking techniques, balance, and defense. The belting system, adapted from Kyokushin Karate, reinforces progress and accountability, with belt testing every 12 weeks. Little Homeschool Ninjas provides weekly, 8-week daytime sessions for homeschool families, combining fitness, discipline, and structured skill-building. “Structure works,” Chris said. “When students show up, drill, and trust the system, growth happens — not just in skill, but in character and confidence.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony symbolized more than the opening of doors. It marked a long-term investment in Ossian’s families and future leaders — a commitment to developing individuals who are disciplined, respectful, and resilient. Cutting the ribbon from left to right were their children, Demi and EJ Lee, standing alongside CEO Liza Lee, her husband and head instructor Chris Lee, and Athanasius Lee. Chamber Ambassadors are also pictured, joining in the celebration of this milestone. Progeny Martial Arts is located at 10018 N State Road 1, Ossian, Indiana. For more information or to inquire about membership, check them out at progenydojo.com or reach out to them via email at progenydojo@gmail.com.
Please view more photos from the event on our Facebook page.