Smiley Academy of Martial Arts/Team Combat Athletix - Orange Park, Florida

Rachelle S.

My kids trained at another BJJ (Brazilian jujitsu) gym for a few years and didn’t grow much in skill or confidence. We looked at other gyms, including Smiley. After taking the trial classes, we decided to stay at Smiley. The reasons?

My kids were happy there and were excited to return because they, “Had fun”- their words.

The coaches are hands on and encouraging. There’s no pressure for them to compete, which isn’t a goal of ours (the parents) or the kids. We want our kids to learn self defense because we feel it’s a necessary life skill. The coaches at Smiley respect that and train our kids just the same (unlike other gyms that pushed private lessons and competitions).

I like the affirmations Coach Smiley shares at the end of class. In addition to learning self defense, I want my kids to build confidence, resilience, determination, etc… the coaches at Smiley help speak life into the kids while teaching them self defense techniques.

Lastly, I like the options they have for kids: MMA, Boxing, and BJJ! It’s nice to have a place they can learn different skills and have the time to do it with their packed schedules. You get your moneys worth!

The gym and bathrooms are clean, the environment is kid friendly (they have homework rooms!), and welcoming. I’m looking forward to seeing my kids grow in skill and confidence at Smiley Academy.

Mariah I.

Highly trained professionals teaching. I love how they take the time out to make sure technique is being performed proficiently, it doesnt matter how many students need to be attended to each of them receive the same respect. There are students from all walks of life coming together to make each other great. It’s an amazing atmosphere for all families. The owner coach Smiley & his family are so amazing & kind. Very gentle with how they treat EVERYONE. It will forever me my martial arts home ❤️

wanda R.

If I could give 0 star I would, in the beginning as always they treat you so amazing than when your kid start getting good ,the envy, the Hate, the way the grown ups treat a teen is horrible, instead of been proud they hate it, idk who said this place is so clean and bathroom are so clean because is not, they of course have a lot of preference for others, they didn't even give my kid his yellow belt but is all good because you still can see all the videos of how many purple, brown belts he submitted, I read the bad comments and I even see your own family can see it, we did had so much respect until you show us who you really are, I hope you got that guy out of jail huh coach when you trying to put good ones in , your academy said it all (smiley )
You don't have to respond I just leaving my honest review..
Ps. You didn't need to lie to my son again in court "about paying for his new academy " we already knew and swe through you ..

Frank R.

I went to the school for 2 years and it felt like I found an inclusive and a friendly atmosphere. So much so that I donated two 100lbs heavy bags and an Xbox to the school because I thought it was a great place. But I had a rough patch this past year with work and went through financial hardship. I asked for help and I was mistreated and lied too. Here are the screenshot of the emails and messages so you may judge for yourself:

Brian

My son has been attending Smiley academy for almost three years. I love the look on his face when we leave it's red and sweaty, he loves his time on the mats. The Coaches are second to none they love teaching their students and the students love their coaches. Everyone is family even those who don't hit the mats. I love to watch everyone training if an individual is having a difficult time with a move there is always help from the coaches to the fellow students. I've watched my son's confidence grow while training with his Smiley family. TO BE THE BEST...

Hannah A.

I have been coming to Smileys for about two and a half years now. When I tell you this place has become a second home to me, I mean it. Starting with the coaches who go above and beyond for the students and takes the time to make sure everyone understands the concepts they are teaching. Next are the students, who are also amazing people who help encourage others to grow as well. I have grown so much as a person and athlete and look forward to continue growing.

bill B.

It’s an amazing atmosphere. Everyone is very welcoming and there to help you develop and guide you on your personal journey

Rickey C.

Great atmosphere and friendly environment. Coaches treat each student, whether they be fundamental or advanced with the utmost care and attention to detail. If you're recreational, competitor, fighter or just looking for a good sweat, Smiley Academy has you covered!