SHAOLIN AMERICAN
SELF DEFENSE ACADEMY
"TEACHERS OPEN THE DOOR, BUT YOU MUST ENTER BY YOURSELF"
Gallery
Classes
Tiny Tigers
(Ages 4-7)
In these classes, we teach not only self-defense, but equally as important – respect, self-control, sincerity, effort, etiquette, character, courage and patience. We place a large emphasis on concentration and focus, as well.
Dragon Warriors
(Ages 8-10)
Building upon the skills and traits we teach in our KIDS’ program, we start integrating lessons of confidence building and character strengthening. Late elementary and middle school, is when young adults face a pivotal turning point.
Young Adults
(Ages 11-15)
With our young adult program, we take their training to the next level & touch on more real-life scenarios. For our teen students, we believe that aiming towards a black belt will help you gain a foundation to face the mental obstacles in the real world
Adults
(Ages 16 & Up)
With our adults, we reiterate all the defense and life skills in our younger programs. At SASDA really create an environment that fosters discipline, focus, mental edge, and meditation. For our adults, Kenpo is not only a martial art, it is a way of life.
Instructors
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DONNIE JEFFCOAT
CHIEF INSTRUCTOR/ OWNER
SENSEI JARED PODOS
HEAD INSTRUCTOR/ MANAGER
SENSEI GABRIEL PALLO
KIDS PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Juan Serrano
Assistant Instructor
SENSEI KARI LARSON
Assistant Instructor
Events
B-DAY PARTIES
Celebrate your little warrior's next birthday party with us and all of their friends!
EVENTS
In addition to birthday parties, we can help you host your next corporate event!
FILMING
We cater to film projects. Let us know if you are interested in filming at Shaolin American!
Calendar
About
We teach Kenpō Karate, which blends Chinese circular movements and hard Japanese linear movements to produce an effective self-defense system. Our students experience the beauty of the traditional Martial Arts and gain a strong sense of DISCIPLINE and CONFIDENCE that are essential for real-life situations.
Who We Are
SASDA is a welcoming community of dedicated, passionate practitioners who support and motivate each other on and off the mats. No egos here. Our dojo provides a safe atmosphere for our students to explore the arts, train hard, and reach their personal goals.NEIGHBORHOOD-STYLE DOJO:
We have built a community where we all know and support each other. We don’t believe in egos but instead believe in fostering attitudes that are encouraging and helpful.OUR DOJO POLICY:
EVERYONE is welcome! We are a diverse group. Our team of professional, certified instructors go through rigorous training and each individual instructor adds their own personal style to their teachings. We tailor fit our program to each individual's goals and needs. Regardless of your age, body-type, gender, and athleticism…our program will help you grow in MIND, BODY and SPIRIT.INDIVIDUAL PROGRAMMING:
We design your personal program to fit who you are. Every student receives at least a 30min private lesson a week.FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE:
Our basic programs offer “unlimited group class access”, making it easier to fit in a couple of group classes every week. Are you someone who struggles with finding time to workout or attend classes? If so, we got you covered! We offer “private lesson” packages and even offer to come to you and train you at your home!BASIC ELEMENTS:
We focus on a balance of discipline, respect, and trust. These three elements are important in any dojo in order to learn and become your best self.INSTRUCTORS:
Our team consists of a small group of highly certified instructors. You will have consistency and growth in developing relationships with our main instructors.
Sign up for a FREE PRIVATE INTRO LESSON and a FREE week of group classes!
Join Our Family
TRY US OUT FOR A WEEK FREE
We welcome our guests to try out a week of classes on us. No strings attached. Whether this is your first martial arts class or you are an experienced practitioner, looking for a new dojo to call home, our team is excited to share our knowledge and passion for Kenpo with you and your family.
Please fill out the Guest Form and a team member will contact you as soon as possible. We look forward to meeting you!SATISFACTION GUARANTEED
Our instructors care deeply about the progress of our students, and show personal support and attention. Our instructors train students based upon their individual abilities – physically and mentally – and customize the program specifically to fit the student.
Tiny Tigers
(Ages 4-7)
| Schedule | |
|---|---|
| Monday | (scheduled private classes) |
| Tuesday | 3:30PM - 4:30PM |
| Wednesday | 3:30PM - 4:30PM (sparring) |
| Thursday | 3:30PM - 4:30PM |
| Friday | (scheduled private classes) |
| Saturday | 10:00AM - 11:00AM |
| Sunday | (scheduled private classes) |
In these classes, we teach not only self-defense, but equally as important – respect, self-control, sincerity, effort, etiquette, character, courage and patience. We place a large emphasis on concentration and focus, as well. We believe that if we can instill this foundation of traits in our kids, they will do better in their academic schools, as well as in life.
Dragon Warriors
(Ages 8-10)
| Schedule | |
|---|---|
| Monday | 4:30PM - 5:30PM |
| Tuesday | (scheduled private classes) |
| Wednesday | 4:30PM - 5:30PM (sparring) |
| Thursday | 4:30PM - 5:30PM |
| Friday | 4:30PM - 5:30PM |
| Saturday | (scheduled private classes) |
| Sunday | (scheduled private classes) |
Building upon the skills and traits we teach in our KIDS’ program, we start integrating lessons of confidence building and character strengthening. Late elementary and middle school, is when young adults face a pivotal turning point in their lives – where they first face the “battle” of superhero vs. villain. We hope to be their ambassadors of superhero-ism!
Young Adults
(Ages 11-15)
| Schedule | |
|---|---|
| Monday | 5:30PM - 6:30PM |
| Tuesday | (scheduled private classes) |
| Wednesday | 5:30PM - 6:30PM (sparring) |
| Thursday | 5:30PM - 6:30PM |
| Friday | 5:30PM - 6:30PM |
| Saturday | (scheduled private classes) |
| Sunday | (scheduled private classes) |
With our young adult program, we take their training to the next level and touch on more real-life scenarios. For our teen students, we believe that aiming towards a black belt, will not only help you gain a foundation to face the mental obstacles in the real world, it will also assist you in your college application. Many universities across the nation are valuing a black belt as a sign that you encompass all the traits of someone with mental strength, endurance, confidence, and spirit.
Adults
(Ages 16 & Up)
| Schedule | |
|---|---|
| Monday | 7:00PM - 8:00PM (All Belt Ranks) |
| Tuesday | 7:00PM - 8:00PM (Basics) |
| Wednesday | 7:00PM - 8:00PM (All Belt Ranks) |
| Thursday | 7:00PM - 8:00PM (Sparring) |
| Friday | 12:00PM - 1:00PM (All Belt Ranks) |
| Saturday | 12:00PM - 1:00PM (All Belt Ranks) and 1:00PM - 2:00PM (Adv. Purple and Above) |
| Sunday | (scheduled private classes) |
With our adults, we reiterate all the defense and life skills in our younger programs. However, in addition, we at SASDA really create an environment that fosters discipline, focus, mental edge, and meditation. For our adults, Kenpo is not only a martial art, it is a way of life. And it is one that will help you maintain your health through self-defense, a cardiovascular workout, mental and physical balance, and mind/body/spirit healing and building.
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DONNIE JEFFCOAT
CHIEF INSTRUCTOR/ OWNER
Specialized Training
Sensei Donnie Jeffcoat started in the Fredrick J. Villari Kempo system in 1985. To add to his martial arts repertoire, he transferred to Professor Charles Materra's United Studios of Self-Defense system two years later. Since then, he has studied Shaolin Kempo and various other forms of martial arts, including but not limited to fight choreography. Donnie has been teaching Kenpō since 2006 and opened the Shaolin American Self-Defense Academy in 2011. He currently trains in American Kenpo and is a fifth degree black belt.
Teaching Philosophy
At SASDA, Sensei Donnie merges street-fighting styles with traditional American Kenpō and classical Shaolin principles, to provide his students with a uniquely effective approach to martial arts that adapts to each student's body type and personality.
SENSEI JARED PODOS
HEAD INSTRUCTOR/ MANAGER
Specialized Training
Sensei Jared Podos first started martial arts as a kid and after a 15-year break finally found his way back. Jared began in the Shaolin Kempo system, attending as many classes as possible each week. When SASDA opened in 2011, he jumped at the opportunity to pursue the more practical American Kenpo system. Sensei Jared has always helped form a community of martial artists that love coming together for a fun workout in a great learning environment. He currently wears a 3rd Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo.
Words From Jared
"As I progress through my own martial arts journey, I hope to spread my knowledge and love of the art to each student as they find their own path. In an art where mind, body and spirit come together as one, each student has the opportunity to make this art their own."
SENSEI GABRIEL PALLO
KIDS PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Specialized Training
Sensei Gabriel found his start and continues his training through the SASDA Kenpo curriculum. He has also had the opportunity to train in the traditional Japanese/Okinawan arts of Shotokan in various trips to Haiti in the AHKP dojo as well as the traditional Korean art of Tang Soo Do under the instruction of Sa Bom Nim Joe Goss Jr. Gabriel plans to live his training through Kenpo as well as passing down the knowledge he gains as a Sensei.
Words From Gabriel
“The Martials Arts have allowed me to transform myself and my life. It contains virtues and skills that reach beyond combat and can bring peace of mind, critical thinking, and physical health to affect a more positive and balanced life. The opportunity to instruct and train in an open, safe, practical, and creative environment is what makes SASDA my home in LA.”
Juan Serrano
Assistant Instructor
Specialized Training
Juan was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY and started his martial arts journey at the young age of 8 years old. Since then he has attained a background in Aikido, Aikijujutsu, Taekwondo, Shotokan Karate, Kali/ Escrima Boxing and American Kenpo Karate. In 1998, Juan decided to follow his passion of Kenpo Karate and move to California. As he continued learning and teaching, he started the first public instructional forum known as Casa de Kenpo in 2008. As an 8th degree black belt with over 35 years of martial arts experience, Juan continues to share and spread his knowledge to every student that steps onto the mats.
Words From Juan
"Karate has influenced my life in ways that permeate in my everyday living … the path to greater understanding is in the journey of training and not the destination of a rank."
SENSEI KARI LARSON
Assistant Instructor
Specialized Training
Sensei Kari began her training in American Kenpo after a long interest in boxing and self defense. Her interest quickly turned into a passion. Given Kari's extensive background in meditation, yoga, body movement, and energy healing, she immediately resonated with the connection of mind, body, and spirit that martial arts offers. As she progresses on her own journey, Kari loves having the opportunity to share this experience with others through her teachings.
Words From Kari
"For me, martial arts has been a journey of personal growth, empowerment, and confidence. It’s brought me a community of supportive individuals who encourage me to become the best version of myself. Taking what I learn on the mats and applying it to my daily life I embody more mindfulness, strength, patience, focus, commitment, perseverance, resilience, and so much more."
Celebrations/Birthday Parties
Kids love a Martial Arts themed birthday party! We would love to host your next celebration. Our dojo will provide the space, tables, chairs, mini karate class, games, activities, party favors, and even a real samurai sword to cut the cake with! We have many options for you to choose from and will certainly make it a very special, memorable experience!!PARTY PACKAGE: $695
2 hour Kenpo Party (+ 1 hour set-up/breakdown)
Up to 20 Kids ($10 for each additional child)
Two Instructors for supervised free play and organized games
Tables and chairs
Real Samurai sword to cut the cake
ADD ONS:
Board Breaking: $2/child
Nunchakus: $6/child
Suction Cup Throwing Stars: $2/child
ADDITIONAL INFO:
Family is responsible for food, snacks, drinks, cake and decorations
$100 Deposit at time of reservation
Corporate Events and Team Building
Is your company, club or organization interested in hosting an exciting, fun self-defense workshop? It’s an excellent and unique way to bring the team together! We offer 1 to 3 hour seminars and can either hold the event here at the dojo, or at your facility. Our team will create an informative, positive, memorable experience for your group! We also offer ongoing courses for graduating teens going to college, women groups and families who want to train together. CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS!
Filming
Our dojo can be rented out for productions of any size or budget. There is space in our back parking lot for trailers and trucks. We also provide fight choreography and stunt consulting. Contact us for more details.
The Warrior's word
A few words from the parents and warriors of our dojo …“You know, they say it takes a village to raise a child. Literally as parents we feed our children as nutritionally, balanced and healthy (food, water and air) as we can ensure their physical growth. But this dojo subtly feeds my son’s soul and spirit which often we forget how vital those are for a child to grow into a humble whole being inside and out.”
– Parent of a Teen Green/Brown Belt“What a super presentation at my work. Women’s self-defense day was so practical and helpful. I had never considered martial arts and here I am a yellow belt. I did always want self defense skills for my daughter (a reason I was drawn to the self defense sign at your booth) she certainly knows more than she did 6 months ago. Besides the main purpose (self defense), I think my posture is better, which was an unexpected bonus.”
– Yellow Belt mother and Yellow Belt daughter“Sasda is THE dojo for children and adults. Donnie Jeffcoat and his team of instructors provide a safe and supportive learning environment for anyone looking to improve self confidence, strength and focus.”
– Proud Parent of a 6-year-old student“My husband and I started taking classes here a little over a month ago, and we are having a blast. It’s a great work out, but it doesn’t feel like “working out” because you’re learning and enjoying yourself. It never feels repetitive, even when we drill. The instructors are so helpful (and patient), as are the other students. They are also very flexible with our busy schedules. After signing up on a bit of a whim, we are looking forward to moving up the ranks while doing a little couples “therapy”. I highly recommend this for everyone!”
– Husband and Wife Blue Belts“The reason I enrolled was to get strength in mind, body and spirit. It has helped in many ways such as lowering my anxiety symptoms as well as give me more confidence and flexibility”
– Teen Purple Belt“Many people enter the dojo for their own person reasons, weight loss, self-control, confidence, exercise, etc. i had no idea what to expect from the instructors, the student, the physical aspect of it. But I can honestly say what a joy and honor it is to be a part of this”
– Adult White Belt“Just when I thought there were no martial arts schools in the area that had the material I was seeking, the environment I love, and the people that made it perfect, I found SASDA. I enrolled immediately after my first trial lesson and cannot wait to dive into my training. Highly recommended for anyone interested in martial arts, fitness, and strengthening the mind, body and spirit.”
– Adult Green Belt
