Grandmaster James Franklin, owner and chief instructor at the Coon Rapids Minnesota Star Martial Arts, grew up in a military household and has lived all over the world. As an "Army Brat," he got to sample martial arts in different parts of the world - Japan, Germany and the U.S.

In 1994, he watched a demonstration at a mall in Mankato, Minnesota and a week later he was in uniform and hooked for life. Since then, he has trained himself to be the best role model he can be. This helps him teach martial arts and discipline, while letting his personality shine to promote a friendly, family atmosphere at his school.

Grandmaster Franklin believes in teaching enjoyable, high energy classes and goes the extra mile to make his students and their families welcome at his dojang. It's easy to see how his classes stand out from the rest and why so many people are training at the Minnesota Star Martial Arts! Grandmaster Franklin is a 7th Degree Black Belt / 3 x member of the USA Masters Team / International Champion / 24 x State Champion / 13 x National Medalist - 7 x National Champion / Level 2 Certified USAT Coach / 2 x USAT State Coach / Level 2 Kid Safe Expert / Anoka Hennepin Community Eduction Partner