ABOUT US

Coach Nolan Giving Yellow Belt

We Design and Run Great Classes

Union Martial Arts in Indian Trail, NC offers Kickboxing, Jiu-Jitsu, and MMA training for kids, teens and adults throughout Union County.

We strive to help every student build the skills that matter most—skills that are practical, adaptable, and effective for self-defense—while building strength, fitness, and confidence along the way. Each class is thoughtfully designed to be age-appropriate, engaging, and structured to challenge students at just the right level—whether you’re brand new or looking to compete one day.

If you’re a parent looking for martial arts classes that build confidence, discipline, and focus—or an adult aiming to get in shape, manage stress, or learn self-defense—you’ll find a welcoming, community-centered environment here. Our experienced coaches work closely with every student to ensure safe, steady progress—building fitness, mental toughness, technical skill, and meaningful connections along the way.

In addition, our 9,600 square foot facility is one of the premier martial arts training spaces in the Carolinas—spacious, clean, and equipped with top-of-the-line gear to support every level of training.

Come experience what sets Union Martial Arts apart.

Coach Nolan with Union student

Coach Nolan

Owner and Head instructor

“Coach Nolan is a man who shows you what it means to conquer obstacles in life. He knows how to bring out the true potential in a person. He’s been the big brother I never had. Go learn from him and you will understand it first hand.” – Julio Arce, UFC Featherweight

After earning his black belt in 2008, Nolan became the owner and head coach of one of the largest and most successful Mixed Martial Arts academies in New York City. He quickly gained recognition for his highly technical instruction, innovative teaching methods, and ability to motivate students at every level. Beyond teaching, Nolan has been a teammate and training partner to numerous UFC and Bellator fighters, understanding firsthand what it takes to succeed both on and off the mat.

“It means everything to me to help others up the mountain that I am climbing with them.” – Coach Nolan 

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, Coach Nolan and Union will support you every step of the way toward your goals.

Coach Kon

instructor

When a coach truly loves what they do, every student and parent feels it. It shows in how they run practice, hold the standard, offer guidance, and motivate.

Kon first walked into Coach Nolan’s Brooklyn, NYC academy back in 2013. From the very beginning, he stood out—not just for his athleticism, toughness, and technical skill, but for something deeper: his humility, discipline, and his instinct to lift others up.

He embodies the “warrior in the garden” mindset—strong, skilled, and prepared, but always grounded and respectful.

Kon has always led by example. A successful competitor in both Kickboxing and Jiu-Jitsu, he was halted by a major knee surgery that required a long recovery. But even during that time, he remained fully engaged—staying connected to the mat, continuing to study, and putting in the daily work to return.

That experience deepened his commitment to coaching and helping others.

A committed lifelong learner, Kon brings a steady presence and sharp attention to detail to every class, fully invested in building Union into a one-of-a-kind place for both kids and adults to train.

When Kon relocated to North Carolina to help launch Union Martial Arts, he brought with him an unwavering commitment to our students and to the culture we’re building. He’s been instrumental in shaping our curriculum, constantly refining how we train to make every class more effective, engaging, and meaningful.

Coach Kon represents the very best of what we aim to cultivate at Union: discipline, effectiveness, growth mindset, humility, and leadership through example.

Coach Kon from Union Martial Arts

(In photo) Coach Nolan receiving his 2nd degree blackbelt promotion from his instructor, Danny “Tiger” Schulmann in 2014.

Coach Nolan in belt promotion

Ready for a FREE TRIAL CLASS?

Please join us and experience the instruction, motivation and community at Union Martial Arts!