Our Story
Escobar Training Grounds was born from a legacy stretching beyond these walls. Over fifty years ago, Grandmaster Joey Escobar began his martial journey under the legendary Chuck Norris, mastering Tang Soo Do and earning a 9th-degree black belt. His teachings went beyond kicks and punches—they were lessons in respect, discipline, and unbreakable spirit.
In 2006, his son Cory Escobar carried forward that torch, opening Escobar Training Grounds in South Lake Tahoe. With just a handful of mats, a vision, and the determination to share his family’s knowledge, Cory created a space where martial arts could thrive at elevation.
What started near the old “Peanut Bar” has since evolved into a 5,000 sq ft facility housing:
A dedicated kids’ dojo, building focus and confidence
A professional boxing ring echoing with learned power
Multiple mat zones blending karate, boxing, jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, and MMA
But ETG is more than a gym. It is a school, a sanctuary, and a family. We’ve watched children grow into state champions, shy students transform into confident leaders, and entire families discover their strength.
In 2017, celebrating our 10th anniversary, we launched free weekly women’s self-defense classes in partnership with Live Violence Free. Our mission remains: to empower every member of our community—teaching them not just how to fight, but how to live with courage, discipline, and respect.
Today, under the shadow of Tahoe’s peaks, we continue to train not just better fighters, but better humans. Together.
Today, under the shadow of Tahoe’s peaks, we continue to train not just better fighters, but better humans. Together.
