Courage Cubs
This program introduces young children to martial arts through fun, age-appropriate activities that build focus, coordination, and social skills. In a playful and encouraging environment, our Courage Cubs learn how to listen, follow directions, and interact respectfully with others. It’s more than movement—it’s a powerful start to building confidence and emotional awareness early in life.
Young Warriors
This program helps kids build confidence, discipline, and inner strength through practical self-defense and leadership skills. In a fun, supportive environment, children learn how to stand up for themselves, respect others, and thrive at home and in school. It’s more than martial arts—it’s life training for young warriors.
Teen Guardians
This program empowers teens to take control of their mindset, fitness, and personal safety while reinforcing discipline and self-respect. Through dynamic martial arts training and leadership development, teens gain the tools to handle real-life challenges with confidence and clarity. It’s more than kicking and punching—it’s training for the challenges and responsibilities of young adulthood.
About Us: Dixon Self Defense Academy, Havre De Grace
At Dixon Self Defense Academy, we believe martial arts is more than movement—it’s a mission. Rooted in our core values of Empowerment, Faith, and Community, everything we do is designed to build warriors in body, mind, and spirit. We stand for strength through service, warrior discipline, and generational impact—training not just individuals, but families. We also take a firm stand against complacency, bullying, and surface-level fitness. Here, transformation isn’t just physical—it’s a way of life, grounded in purpose and driven by faith.
Our academy is a safe haven where kids gain confidence, adults rediscover their strength, and families grow closer through shared challenges and victories. One quote we live by is: “We train to face life, not just to fight it.” Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, we welcome you to experience what makes our tribe different.
Daryl Dixon Jr.
Head Instructor
Self Defense Skills
Every class teaches practical, real-world self-defense techniques rooted in disciplines like kickboxing, Tae Kwon Do, Judo, and Jiu-Jitsu. Our S.A.F.E. Training Model equips students of all ages with the awareness, confidence, and control to protect themselves and others in everyday situations.
Increased Mental Clarity
Our programs sharpen focus, build emotional discipline, and promote decision-making under pressure. Whether you're a child learning structure or an adult resetting your mindset, our training clears mental clutter and builds clarity.
Stress Relief
Kickboxing and warrior empowerment training offer more than a physical release—they’re therapeutic outlets. Members leave class feeling refreshed, recharged, and mentally stronger with each session.
Improved Physical Fitness
From high-intensity kickboxing drills to full-body martial arts training, every class improves strength, endurance, and coordination. Students see real gains in energy, flexibility, and overall health—regardless of their starting point.
Greater Self Confidence
Confidence is earned through effort—and our students earn it every time they show up. Children walk taller, adults speak with more assurance, and everyone leaves class with a renewed sense of belief in themselves.
Community Interaction
We don’t just build warriors—we build relationships. From kids supporting each other in class to adults bonding through shared challenges, our academy is a place where strong connections are formed and families thrive together.
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"The true warrior isn't defined by how they fight, but by what they fight for."
Faith is Our Foundation
At Dixon Self Defense Academy, faith isn’t an add-on—it’s the cornerstone of everything we teach. We believe that spiritual strength fuels physical growth, and that values like discipline, humility, and service shape true warriors. Classes are taught with a mindset rooted in Christian principles, empowering students to grow with purpose and integrity. Our goal isn’t just to create skilled martial artists, but to raise leaders who live by conviction and lead with compassion.
We Train for Life, Not Just the Mat
Martial arts at DSDA goes far beyond technique and fitness. We’re here to prepare students mentally, emotionally, and spiritually for the challenges of everyday life. Whether it’s standing up to a bully, leading your family with strength, or staying calm under pressure—these are life skills we practice daily. Every punch, every rep, every lesson is a step toward becoming the best version of yourself.
Courage Cubs – Building Focus and Confidence from the Start
This isn’t just playtime—it’s the first step in your child’s martial arts journey. In our Courage Cubs classes, preschoolers learn essential skills like focus, balance, and listening in a fun, nurturing environment. With gentle guidance and structured activities, they build the confidence and coordination needed for future success. Every class plants the seeds of discipline, self-control, and respect—setting the foundation for life.
Young Warriors – Raising Confident Kids, One Warrior at a Time
This isn’t just martial arts for kids—it’s leadership training in disguise. In our Young Warriors classes, students gain more than self-defense skills—they build discipline, confidence, and character that carries into school and home life. Through fun, structured lessons and a faith-based foundation, your child learns how to stand tall, think clearly, and lead with kindness. Every class helps them become stronger, inside and out.
Teen Guardians – Strength, Leadership, and Responsibility in Motion
This isn’t just a physical outlet—it’s a pathway to purpose. Our Teen Guardians program is designed to guide teens through one of the most formative stages of life using martial arts, mindset development, and leadership coaching. They’ll build real self-defense skills while gaining confidence, accountability, and emotional resilience. Each class challenges them to grow in strength, clarity, and self-leadership.
Guardian Elite – Empowering Adults Through Purposeful Training
This isn’t just another workout—it’s personal transformation through martial arts. Our Guardian Elite program helps adults reclaim their strength, sharpen their focus, and grow in purpose through dynamic, faith-driven training. You'll learn practical self-defense, improve your fitness, and reset your mindset in a supportive, mission-led environment. Every class fuels growth that carries into your family, career, and everyday life.
Kickboxing – Unleash the Fighter Within
Our Kickboxing program is where power, precision, and purpose collide. Designed for all fitness levels, this high-intensity class fuses real striking techniques with full-body conditioning to sculpt your body and sharpen your mind. Led by a 3x World Kickboxing Champion, you'll sweat with intention and train like a warrior. Whether you're here for fitness, self-defense, or stress relief, this class will leave you feeling unstoppable.
Frequently Asked Questions
See some of our most common questions and answers below, or call us at (443) 945-3356
Why Choose Dixon Self Defense Academy in Havre De Grace, Maryland
Real-World Self-Defense Training
Our classes don’t just teach theory—they prepare you for real-life situations. With techniques rooted in kickboxing, Jiu-Jitsu, and the S.A.F.E. model, students learn how to stay aware, respond quickly, and defend confidently.
Programs for the Entire Family
From energetic kids to purpose-driven adults, we offer structured programs that serve every age and fitness level. Families can grow stronger together while learning values like discipline, resilience, and respect.
