Reviews of Bando of New England

For more than 35 years I have been studying the Burmese martial art of Bando under the direction of Bob Platukis, head instructor of Bando New England. Bando of New England offers the serious student a well-designed curriculum, featuring instruction on traditional Burmese Bando forms, sparring, and realistic self-defense. The Bando of New England program is also strongly oriented toward individualized instruction. Bob is a demanding teacher but his critiques are solely aimed at improving the student’s performance. With a proven record of student accomplishment, Bando of New England is well worth the time and money.

I have studied at Bando of New England under Robert Platukis for over 32 years. He has always run his school with integrity and honor, and with the highest quality and standards to develop talented martial artists who are respected for their skills and their character. I have always known him to be respectful to his students, their families and their children. And importantly, he has always had a concern about the safety of all students at the school. Bob holds a masters degree in education contributing to complete, structured and disciplined teaching methods. He has been a positive role model and has encouraged his students to be respectful to others. Bob has also been respected by many martial artists from many martial arts systems. He was honored on July 27, 1997 by Professor Edward Brown, a grandmaster in Isshinryu, as Master instructor of the year. He has encouraged critical thinking and to not just believe all that is in print. He has encouraged us to challenge ourselves in not being satisfied with the mediocre and in doing so building character and self-discipline in his students. Training with him has been fun and rewarding as we strive to develop all our human potentialities. I have made many lasting friendships and have felt part of a unified family of brothers and sisters. I will always cherish the wisdom he has shared and the support he has given and consider myself lucky to have been given the opportunity to enjoy his teachings.

Head Instructor, Robert Platukis, is a crude, angry, uncaring owner. He makes vile comments about his students and their wives and children. This school is a waste of time and money.