TALE OF APEX COMBAT ACADEMY
The story of Apex Combat Academy is one of resilience, mentorship, and the indomitable spirit of martial arts.
Master Kurt Podany had yet to build our premier Denver martial arts academy, but had the dream in mind. Before establishing Apex Combat Academy as a staple in Denver and Englewood martial arts and Muay Thai, Master Kurt took eventual Omaha academy founder, Austin Streicher, under his wing at 15 years old. Austin trained under Master Kurt and was set on a path of greatness, including winning a National Championship when he was just 17. Over the years, they built a bond rooted in trust, hard work, and mutual respect.
Austin later explored the wider martial arts world, training with renowned teams and gyms. However, he realized that what he shared with Master Kurt was irreplaceable. He returned home to continue learning and growing in Muay Thai and martial arts under his mentor.
During this time, Master Kurt was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. Despite his illness, he and Austin continued to pursue their shared dream of creating a Denver martial arts academy where martial arts could thrive. Thus, Apex Combat Academy was born through Master Kurt’s battle.
In his final days, Master Kurt entrusted Austin with his legacy, passing down his sacred Mongkol and Prajiids, and sharing his vision for the future. He asked Austin to carry on the teachings and principles they built together. This included the goal to establish another venue to share Apex Combat Academy’s lessons. This led to our Omaha martial arts academy, Apex Combat Academy Omaha, preserving the spirit of their work and continuing the legacy of Master Kurt.
Today, Apex Combat Academy stands as a testament to their unbreakable bond. It is a place where students not only learn martial arts and the lessons from Muay Thai classes, but embody the values of dedication, perseverance, and love for the craft. Master Kurt’s legacy lives on through every student and every lesson taught at both our Apex Combat Academy locations.