Dan Umpa, a former Navy pilot, has opened a kids Ninja gym in the Stafford community, growing his own career while supporting the development of healthy, happy kids for fellow military families.
In the heart of Stafford, Virginia, a new adventure awaits local families — one that merges fitness, fun and a unique connection to the military community. Dan Umpa, a former Navy helicopter pilot, has opened the doors to his USA Ninja Challenge franchise, providing a dynamic environment for children to engage in the sport of Ninja, taking on physical challenges like climbing, jumping and balance. And, for children of military families in the area, USA Ninja Challenge also provides a kid-friendly opportunity for young people to engage with physical challenges similar to those they see their parents take on in their military careers.
While Umpa is passionate about business, fitness and safe, happy spaces for kids, the opportunity to provide such a service to fellow military families is a key contributor to hissatisfaction as a business owner. Umpa’s journey to entrepreneurship began after a decade of dedicated service in the Navy, followed by time in the corporate sector.
“After my military career, I was searching for a new challenge,” Umpa said. “I wanted to create something meaningful, not just for myself but for other families like mine.” Initially, Umpa considered various business ventures, including a traditional gym and a playspace for kids. However, the COVID-19 pandemic shifted his perspective.
“When the pandemic hit, the gym industry faced significant challenges,” he said. “That’s when I started looking for something different. I have two young kids and saw a demand for safe, engaging spaces where they could be active. When I discovered USA Ninja Challenge, I knew it was the perfect solution, combining the best aspects of both gym and playspace concepts.”
With a strong military community surrounding the Stafford location, Umpa knew he would have an opportunity to serve families of active duty personnel. USA Ninja Challenge focuses on helping kids build confidence through movement and skill mastery — something many of these kids see their parents do day in and day out.
“Kids often see their parents tackling obstacle courses as a part of their military training and think it’s the coolest thing,” he said. “USA Ninja Challenge provides them with a chance to experience that excitement in a safe, controlled setting. As a veteran, I’m proud to help create opportunities for these kids to thrive.”
At USA Ninja Challenge, children progress through six skill levels, mastering 21 unique skill categories, from climbing and swinging to balance and floor skills. Umpa emphasizes the importance of resilience in the program, noting that participation in USA Ninja Challenge courses helps kids learn how to overcome obstacles, both physical and mental. Each win allows for a celebration, and the small victories add up to meaningfully contribute to a kid’s confidence.
As he settles into the Stafford community, Umpa is committed to establishing a reputation that resonates with local families. “I chose this location because I understand the unique challenges military families face,” he said. “My goal is to create a supportive environment where kids can be active and have fun, while also providing a sense of community for their families.”
Umpa also has aspirations for future growth, looking to expand his franchise to nearby areas like Annapolis. Noting a real need for concepts like USA Ninja Challenge in other communities in the area, Umpa said he looks forward to growing into the surrounding markets, but he is
currently most intently focused on supporting the success of the first gym. By remaining present and building strong teams, Umpa will ensure each child who walks through the doors is welcomed, supported and inspired.
This goal, combined with his desire to serve his community, positions Umpa well to create a lasting legacy for the next generation, developing a community of active, resilient, confident kids. “USA Ninja Challenge has given me an opportunity to transform my career, but it’s also allowing
me to enrich the lives of other military families in the Stafford area and beyond,” he said. “I want to give kids the tools to succeed — not just in the gym but in life.”