South Mountain Martial Arts

"I am a wrestling coach and teacher (as well as a martial arts nerd) who began training at SMMR last spring. Although I have visited many respected gyms throughout the country while traveling, I am so grateful this is my home dojo, the place where I go to learn and train and see my friends; I am also very grateful that so many of my classmates are expert, generous, teachers (many of the students of the school are former competitors and expert instructors), and that Dayn, a humble legend in the martial arts world, is my sensei and coach. The facilities are unique and wonderful--on the top floor of a historic and old building, SMMR has a locker room for men and one for women, a strength and conditioning area (with a chiropractic decompression table, cable machines, uchikomi bands, stretching equipment, heavy bag, etc), high-quality, elevated, mats, and plenty of space for 6 or more pairs to play Judo randori safely (the mat layout is far more spacious than even some of the largest gyms in the area--certainly larger than average; one of my early draws to the school was that there was actually room to wrestle and throw compared to many local BJJ gyms). Weapons, pads, helmets, etc, to play with. Along the walls you'll find a veritable martial arts museum--a display of Dayne's various achievements, certifications, and honors as a competitor and coach, alongside his many successful students--as well as a unique, large, and comprehensive martial arts library, which occupies several bookcases. Although I have only trained since last Spring, and have sustained far less injuries from the training than other gyms I've visited (as an experienced coach and referee, Dayne takes a serious interest in protecting his athletes during play, and has saved me more than once when I was too stupid to tap), I have had more success in randori when visiting other schools and when competing than any other time in my 6 years of grappling training. I have visited some very respectable Judo and BJJ clubs in the area and am always treated with the utmost respect--even beyond the usual respect shown among martial artists-- when the teachers at these schools hear that I am Dayne's student. More than once I have met well-known Judokas whose videos I've purchased on Judo fanatics and have had them praise my instructor and my school. Every serious martial artist I've met knows Dayne and speaks so highly of him (which isn't a surprise if you are fortunate enough to become his student). I know others have commented on the family atmosphere but I do think it's worth noting that despite the fact that the majority of the school are experienced black belts in multiple disciplines (many who have or still compete at very high levels), we treat each other--newbees like me and experts alike--as a big family--we gather for big meals around major holidays, and celebrate each other's achievements. I can say much more but I will end with one more thing: I know there are plenty of opportunities to encounter misinformation on the internet but I would really urge anyone who is interested to come to the dojo and check it out."

"I had the pleasure of meeting Dayn and joining South Mountain Martial arts a few months ago, and from the moment I stepped in and had the first class, I knew this is where I wanted to train. Often you'll hear gyms, businesses, or sports teams say that they are a "family," but it's nothing more than a buzzword but not at SMMA. Dayn and the team genuinely embody that word like no other it extends beyond the mats and the training; it's the way they talk to one another and care for each other in all aspects of life. For example, Dayn would text the entire team whenever a new person joined to make sure that one of the more experienced members could train with that person one on one to get the best lesson. Dayn and the team make sure that anyone who decides to train, whether new or experienced, will get the best training possible and the best care possible. So when you sign up, just understand that you aren't just signing up for the best judo and martial arts training but also are joining a team and family that watches out for you."

"I have trained in martial arts for 30 years. I have seen some of the best classical teachers and some of the worst McDojos in existence. I have trained at SMMA and my son has taken the excellent kids classes. SMMA and the DeRose brothers are absolutely, undoubtedly some of the best! Daryn has dedicated his life to Judo and to making everyone he trains the absolute best he could be. He even holds a PhD in I believe analytical Psychology (though I'm not sure of the actual degree). Dayn is a renaissance man holding high level ranks in Judo, Jujitsu, Kenpo, and Sambo, as well as being a NCAA fencing coach. Everyone I have ever met at the SMMA Dojo has been not only a great example of a warrior and martial artist, but also truly good people. The quality of the instruction and the training is second to none, as well as the supportive and motivating atmosphere. I'd give it 10 stars if I could! the Dojo isn't glitzy or modern, but it is one of the best places to learn."

"I joined this dojo several years ago to help augment my skills as a high school wrestler. I can say with utmost confidence that my training here not only improved my skills as a wrestler, but as a fighter in all regards. Sensei Dayn DeRose has mastered so many forms of martial arts that I've lost count, and he is not just an exceptional teacher, but also a very good friend. If you want to learn how to defend yourself and have a terrific experience doing so, join South Mountain Martial Arts."

"I have been attending judo classes there since October 2015. I love the instructors and my training partners. The instructors are top notch and know what they are talking about from their vast experience in judo and other martial arts (high rank black belt). My training partners are mainly black belts but they are all willing to help and share their knowledge. It's a brotherhood there. In summary, it's a great and safe learning environment for anyone who's willing to work hard and learn as much as possible from great instructors and make life long friendships. I will recommend it to friends and family."