★ 5

My son is a part of the Tiny Tigers and he LOVES it here. I'm so happy we found this place. My son can't wait to go every week and is motivated to move up and get his belts.

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★ 5

The best karate school in the area!!!

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★ 5

My 4-year-old daughter started last month, and I’m so happy we found such a wonderful place. It was her first time taking karate, and she already looks forward to coming here every week. I can truly see how happy she is every time we come. Raffi is so kind and really knows how to help young kids stay focused. Thank you for giving my daughter such a joyful time every Saturday.

Source: Google

★ 5

Sensai's Raffi and Susan are beyond AMAZING! My son has been attending class for over 2 years and they are incredible. They really go above and beyond for their students and parents. If I could give them a million stars I would!!!! Highly recommended!!!!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

This was my daughter's first time going to martial arts and they welcomed her and made sure she felt comfortable. Now she loves going and learning new stuff.

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent
A phenomenal team, they know how to deal with children, how to keep them interested in classes.
The environment is pleasant.
I highly recommend

Source: Google

★ 5

I normally don't give reviews, but this martial arts school has earned my 5 star rating. I have been in martial arts all my life and have been currently training in this dojo for more than a few years now. Head instructor Raffi Derderian has tremendous knowledge on all different styles of martial arts and the instructors under him hold that same passion and dedication. Whether your an adult looking to start something new, or looking to have your child start something new, I highly encourage you to check out this school. There are a variety of different programs offered so there will be something for everyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent my son has been going to Derderian Academy for almost 12 years and he has learnt so much and his confidence has greatly improved. The instructors are amazing and I would recommend them to anyone and have recommended them to my sons friends.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you are looking to stimulate your mind and condition the body, then this is the place for you! i havent been a member for very long but each time i come to class,i learn a new way to move and to challenge myself. ive taken various martial arts classes over the years and this is the first time ive seen Bruce Lees JKD offered. the shirts are cool as hell and everyone that ive trained with has been super nice and supportive (even if i dont go to class as much as id like to). Raffi Dererian and his wife susan are amazing business owners and they do what they can to help get you to be the best version of yourself.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training in martial arts since 1987. I had taken a break from formal training in 2014 until I attended one of Sensei/Sifu/Guro Raffi Derderian's seminars. I continued as a seminar student until 2023 when I decided to join regular adult JKD and Kali classes. I was determined to stay a seminar student. Yet, Sensei/Sifu/Guro Raffi Derderian and Sensei Susan, their incredible and knowledgeable staff, and the wonderful students they attract changed my mind. It's worth the time and effort to get to classes regularly!

If you're looking for a place to train spirited martial arts in a safe environment, whether Kenpo Karate (for you or your child), Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do (JKD), or the Filipino Martial Art (FMA) of Kali—the Derderian Academy of Martial Arts (DAMA) is the place to go! Highly recommended!

Source: Google

★ 5

My 4 year old started back in September and she loves it! Sensei Raffi is great with the little ones. Overall we've had a great experience!

Source: Google

★ 5

Sensei Raffi and Sensei Susan are fantastic - they're great to my 2 kids and have taught them to have respect and discipline while having fun learning martial arts. It's also a great community of kids and families and I'm thankful we found it.

Source: Google

★ 5

I looked at 5-6 karate schools for my son (now 8) -- and I made the right decision with the Derderian Academy. Sensei Raffi and Sensei Susan are serious and respectful and friendly, and dedicated to both teaching the art and making it fun for the kids. My son's experience here has been terrific and he has increasingly, as he's advanced, been bringing the discipline home and exporting it to his other interests. I believe that is the sign a great school, as it is about more than just punches and kicks.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

These karate classes are incredible for children, my son has learned a lot here and above all self-control and a lot of discipline, what I really like is Sensei Susan, incredible patience with the little ones, she is a sweetheart.

Source: Google

★ 5

I highly recommend Derderian Academy for anyone interested in studying martial arts. Sifu Raffi is top notch (the entire sifu training team as well). All the instructors are extremely skilled but, even more importantly, they are great teachers, very personable, very patient and apply very timely humor to make the classes even more fun. I have a bias towards Jeet Kune Do (which I highly recommend to friends and family) but the academy covers the bases with an array of offerings. While learning some great skills from the best in the business who can drop you to the ground with their pinkie finger, you will have some fun to boot. It is a great group.

Source: Google

★ 5

Sifu Raffi has a way of teaching and expressing martial arts that is engaging and digestible for students. He is a legit martial artist and an amazing human being. I wish I lived closer!

Source: Google

★ 5

Sifu Raffi and all his Kali instructors are top notch. After spending more than 20 years studying a traditional Japanese martial art, I was blown away by his skill and the applicability to my primary style. Student community is great - helpful and no egos. Highly recommended.

Source: Google

★ 5

Our son has been attending Derderian for almost a year :) In the last year we have seen such an amazing improvement in his confidence and social skills. He’s learned to become more patient and utilize his self-control. With that, I have also noticed he is getting stronger and faster. I love that karate teaches children to redirect their natural impulses towards aggression into a more constructive, helpful and beneficial way. Sensei Raffi and Sensei Susan are incredibly kind and inclusive, they are also very understanding and supportive of each child and their family. Communication is never an issue and everyone is always so welcoming! If you are interested in a martial arts education for your child, join the Derderian Martial Arts community, you won’t be disappointed!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Our daughter began her introduction to karate at the Derderian Academy when she was only 7 years old. Here we are 11 years later and a 2nd degree black belt and off to college as as young woman. My husband and I want to thank Sensei Raffi and Sensei Susan not only for the years of training, but more importantly to the years of instilling great values of commitment, dedication, and having a solid moral compass. While she is off to the next chapter in her life we thank you for being a part of her beginning.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

LOVE this martial arts studio. My daughter was super hesitant to try it, now she waits by the door to go! Raffi and team are so kind and patient, while instilling great values and discipline. So fortunate to have found Derderian Academy :)

Source: Google

★ 5

Sensei Susan and Sensei Raffi run a fantastic dojo and are absolutely great with student and families. From the start of our membership it was evident that Dederian is a karate school whose primary focus is on the relationship between the martial art and the student before the business aspect. They are patient and can connect with students at any level. Highly recommended!

Source: Google

★ 5

My son has been coming here for a few months now. The environment is great! Welcoming, patient, and overall great instructors and you can't beat the pricing!

Source: Google

★ 5

My 7 year old daughter has been taking classes here for about a year now and she loves it. The instructors are kind and patient with students of all ages.

Source: Google

★ 5

High Integrity, attention to detail, a good heart soul runs this place.

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★ 5

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★ 5

I just started here and absolutely love it. The instructor's and students are very understanding and supportive.

Source: Google

★ 5

My 7 year old started karate last fall (2020) and I have seen such a difference in her confidence and self esteem! Derderian Academy of Martial Arts has been amazing and I would highly recommend them! They make sure the kids actually earn their belts and feel proud of themselves when they do!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love it. helps implement discipline and respect.

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★ 5

My children been going for a few months now and I couldn’t have picked a better place. The price is perfect for a mom of many. My children love it and everyone is so welcoming. I highly recommend you try it out you will love it here!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I was nervous to start a martial arts class and Dederian martial arts is professional and made me feel comfortable and everybody in the class is really nice and in this day and age I think everybody should learn self-defense.
I also signed my two children up and it’s the best thing we did for our family

Source: Google

★ 5

Derderian Academy has made such a difference in our son, he is on the autisum spectrum and was having a hard time with other karate studios, he had almost given up on karate untill we tried Derderian. Such an amazing place, they are so dedicated and deeply care about the kids. Everything about Derderian is amazing. Just give it a try and see the difference for yourself. 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟

Source: Google

★ 5

As an adult who has never done martial arts, I was nervous about trying this, but Raffi and Susan made me feel comfortable. They gave me a one on one experience for my first few classes so I would feel comfortable in the class with seasoned students. I look forward to my sessions every week and feel great after each class. I highly recommend Derderian Martial Arts no matter your age!

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is great, my son started karate classes about a year ago at 12 years old and I have noticed I positive change on he’s behavior overall, I take him now 3 times a week to karate classes and he like it very much specially when he gets his belt stripes. The Staff is very professional and friendly make you feel welcome

Source: Google

★ 5

Sifu Derderian is an exceptional instructor whose high expectations for his students means he shares his passion and develops skilled martial artists. Whether you are looking for karate, Filipino martial arts, or Jeet Kune Do, classes for yourself or your children, you will find it at Derderian's Academy of Martial Arts. I met Sifu nearly 25 years ago. Although I have phased in and out of training frequency with him, he always welcomes me with open arms and I am grateful both for his expertise and consistent encouragement. He and his wife Susan have built a school and community I am proud to recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Looked around a lot of places before I decided on Derderian. They are great with the kids and help them learn not just martial arts but lessons they can use their whole life. I would recommend this place to anybody interested in learning martial arts!

Source: Google

★ 5

One of the best things I’ve done for myself. I get exercise, learning how to defend myself, I’ve met a bunch of great people and I look forward to this so much.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

I have practiced martial arts under Sifu Raffi for around 8 years now. I started (nervously) from scratch, but Sifu Raffi and all of the other instructors worked patiently and constructively to build my skills and my form. Never have I been felt down, never have I felt like I didn't belong here and never have I regretted signing up at this school. I have accumulated much knowledge and made many new friends through my experience here, and it's been completely worth every minute spent in the dojo.

Also, Sensei Susan leads an incredible yoga class every week. You'll find yourself working muscles you didn't even know you had. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

My main motivation to getting into martial arts are fitness, discipline and means to relax. Granted there are gyms and other sports that will help me get these. But with martial arts, I feel I am learning a skill that will be useful some day. I feel that I will get to know about my body, its capabilities and limitations better.

Initially, I was looking into more traditional martial arts like Wing-chun, Karate or Muay Thai. But I was always wary of their strict and rigid curriculum. Not saying it is bad, but it may not be my cup of tea.

With Jeet Kune Do, some day in future, I think I will be able to customize it to suit my personality. Thank you very much for pointing me in this direction.

I enjoying my time at the academy. Thanks to Sifu Raffi, Sifu Todd, Sifu Tony, Sifu Norm and all the other students.

Source: Google

★ 5

Immediately upon walking into Derderien, I felt the warmth and positivity we have been searching for. Right away, my son loved karate and said so after his first night. At 6, we are still trying to feel out all the options after school; activities and sports can do so much for a child, but finding a place where kids are nurtured, taught, challenged, all while having fun and gaining confidence is hard to come by. We are so thankful it came recommended to us as a new family in town. There are so many programs out there, but I’d choose Derderien all over again if we had to!

Source: Google

★ 5

Our son joined Derderian as an 8-year old and almost 5-years later, we are so proud of what he has accomplished both inside and outside of his classes. He is as dedicated to and motivated by the classes and fantastic instructors there today as when he started! They have our utmost trust and have proven both their martial arts knowledge and genuine care for each student in their classes. Unlike other schools out there where you essentially pay for your medals, Derderian is NOT a 'drive-through' operation. Students must and do work hard toward their accomplishments! We proudly recommend Derderian Academy to friends looking for a martial arts program for their children.

Source: Google

★ 5

Both my son and I are students at DAMA. I take the Kali class and my son is in the Little Dragons Kenpo program. There is a real sense of family here and all of the teachers have been nothing but welcoming. My only regret is that I cannot afford the JKD class. I watch the last 10 minutes when I arrive early to my Kali class and am always jealous at how much fun they are having! I leave every class feeling challenged and accomplished - being a high school teacher myself, I know that is exactly where you want your students to be!

Update: I since have begun taking JKD classes as well and am beyond happy! My son is still taking classes and continues to grow and learn from the community at Derderian. When I talk to friends or family at nearby martial arts schools, I see that really all they are getting out of it is child care and a false sense of accomplishment. Students at Derderian earn their stripes and are respected among the martial arts community! And I wrote this from the heart...not for free merchandise like other schools are offering for writing reviews like this!

Source: Google

★ 5

My son has attended to Derderian Academy for the past three years and has loved it! The staff is extremely patient and takes their time with each individual student. They reinforce having manners, having integrity and respectfulness towards others. My husband and I would strongly recommend to Derderian Academy to any young girl or boy who is interested!

Source: Google

★ 4

I enjoy the attention that they show my nephew i wish the classes were longer they have taught him to be patience and follow their instructions

Source: Google

★ 5

My son has been coming here since he was about 7 and is now 15. I have seen his self-confidence grow and have always been pleased with the instructors and facilities (especially the new dojo). I feel that's it's a very good value as well!

Source: Google

★ 5

Derderian Academy of Martial Arts is a TRUE martial arts school. I have been taking the adult kempo classes for 3 years, and my son has been taking the children's class for over 2 yrs. It was an adjustment for him, because he came from the local McDojo and was hoping to be the next 6 year old "black belt". None of that stupidity here. At DAMA, Senseis Raffi and Susan TEACH, and students are then required to LEARN. It isn't a screaming contest, and no belt promotions are given for making your bed in the morning. There is a true sense of family and mutual respect amongst every student and instructor here. I encourage anyone who is seeking out a karate program to check out DAMA. I also challenge those families who are under contract at McDojo to see what a real school actually looks like.

Source: Google

★ 5

Derderian Martial Arts taught my child how to work hard and earn what you keep versus getting a belt for the sake of getting one. The staff and Sensei are amazing and truly teach their students how to work hard and earn respect for the work they do.

Source: Google

★ 5

My son has been attending Derderian for about 3 years. When I first signed him up, I didn't really know what to expect. However, the more he went, the more he enjoyed it. He started in the Tigers (younger) class just learning the basic foundations of martial arts. He has since moved up to the Dragons and is so excited and motivated to learn more and move up in the ranks. As he achieves higher belt levels and stripes, I noticed that he has gained more confidence. Its a great program and I would highly recommend it to anyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great staff and reasonable prices for lessons. My grandson loves coming here. They are adding additional classes as the just moved into a larger space with great parking.

I recommend stopping by and checking it out.

Source: Google

★ 5

Going on my third year at the school and I learn something new every class. Teachers are very passionate and knowledgeable about what they teach and I love that the most. I could not be happier and recommend this school to anyone who has interest in the martial arts.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a member of the Derderian Academy of Martial Arts for about a year now. I have been enrolled in the JKD class and it is everything I expected and more. The instruction is top notch and the group of guys in the class provide a strong team atmosphere and won't hesitate to help if you have any questions. I highly recommend this academy if you are serious about finding a dojo that is committed to teaching you martial arts.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is an amazing school.
The depth of knowledge, passion and professionalism can't be beat.

Source: Google

★ 5

My son joined Derderian Academy three years ago and we couldn’t be happier. Sensei Raffi, Sensei Susan and really all of the instructors there have a genuine interest in my son and not his membership fee. Not only are they concerned with a student’s progress in class but his/her work in school and life at home as well.

Focus, discipline, improved fitness, character development, setting and achieving goals – you hear these a lot, but at Derderian my son has achieved all of these. We are so proud of him!

So many other places that pretend to have values routed in tradition and programs that reward hard work, but in reality, they are in business simply to collect money and could care less about progress in the art they teach.

Based on previous research we conducted years earlier for our older son, we had an overall mistrust of all schools, thinking they were all ‘McDojo’s’ that would keep giving out belts (black probably in 1-2 years, right?) as long as you kept paying.

When we were first looking at Derderian, the instructors were open and honest to any and all questions we had and for that we developed a tremendous amount of respect.

While all the students are expected to work hard, the attitude is still tremendously positive. My son always comes out of class with a big smile on his face. Over the past few years, we’ve met many families who come from much farther away than we do because they also have learned the quality of martial arts education here.

If you’re going to be investing hundreds of dollars and hours, do your research and ultimately you’ll find yourself at Derderian.

Source: Google

★ 5

Knowing the benefits of Marshall Arts training, I brought my reluctant 5 year old son to Dederian Academy in hopes that he would show an interest. I had done this in the past with another academy and my son wanted nothing to do with it. However, as soon as he stepped into the class area, he expressed his enthusiasm to get involved. I do not know what the changed his mind...perhaps it was the high energy atmosphere, the atmosphere of reverence, or maybe it was the fact that he shared the same first name as the head 'Sensei'. Regardless, it has been a year since my son started. He has now advanced to higher class and continues to show enthusiasm and pride in what he does there. Training at the Dederian Academy of Marshal arts has been nothing but a positive experience for my son and I can see him continuing under Senseis Raffi and Susan until he reached adulthood.

Update: Since my son was having so much fun, I joined myself (the adult class). Come February, it will be a year since I started.

Source: Google

★ 5

I originally wanted to start taking martial arts classes to help me lose weight, and I've been hooked! Sensei Raffi & Sensei Susan were super welcoming and friendly since day one, and all the classmates are dedicated and respectful. I was worried about the environment coming in, since not all martial arts studios treat newcomers well. Sensei Raffi & Sensei Susan put my concerns to bed immediately. Regardless of your level of skill coming in, this is a judgement-free zone. You're expected to work hard to improve, but nobody is snide or condescending about your abilities or if you make a mistake.
If anyone is looking to start taking martial arts but is anxious about feeling like the "newbie," I highly recommend you give the Dederian Academy of Martial Arts a shot. You won't regret it.

Source: Google

★ 5

Both of my kids have attended DAMA for nearly a year now and I couldn't be happier with the confidence they have gained from martial arts with Senseis Raffi & Susan. I drive past three other martial arts studios to go to DAMA since they do such a great job. Thanks for helping my children become well-rounded people :)

Source: Google

★ 5

My son loves coming to Karate at DAMA. It has given him so much confidence and something he can take pride in. I love to watch him work hard and practice for his belt tests. Would highly recommend to anyone!

Source: Google

★ 5

My 8yr old son started attending DAMA at age 5 and at first was shy, uncertain, unconfident, and not long after came "out of his shell", with the playful instruction and guidance of Sensei Raffi and Sensei Susan. With every class, and the constant loving persistance of my beloved brother, Lorenzo is now confident, less shy, still cautious, and thrilled with the knowledge and careful instruction he is receiving. As his Mom, I also am proud to see the self-determination and focus he applies to his learning as well as his self-confidence in other aspects of his life as a result of attending DAMA. He was thrilled this morning to have the opportunity to meet Grandmaster Tatum-world renowned martial artist who visited this weekend and was nice enough to instruct our students. We are truly blessed to attend this superb academy and appreciate all the wonderful teaching and specific focus on form and understanding of self-discipline from Sensei Raffi and Sensei Susan!! Thank you so much.

Source: Google

★ 5

My son (who is almost 8) has been training at the Derderian Academy for the Martial Arts for about 2 1/2 years. As a result of his training, he has gained in self confidence and discipline. I highly recommend this school without reservation.

Source: Google

★ 5

Our ten year old son Peter has been learning karate at Derderian Academy since he was seven.
When I pick him up from his twice weekly lesson he is always happy. He is especially happy when I pick him up from his twice monthly Black Belt Club lesson.
He has learned a lot and feels a sense of accomplishment for having mastered various katas, self defenses, break holds, and heaven six using kali sticks. He really likes the end of class wrestling, sparring, knock down, and “the belt game” competitions. In addition he has learned exercises to keep himself fit.
Sensei Raffi and Sensei Susan create an atmosphere that has the right mix of seriousness, caring, and fun. We are very glad we found Derderian Academy for our son.
Alexandra & Claus Hofhansel

Source: Google

★ 5

I have trained in a number of different dojo in the US and Japan, and Derderian Academy is right at the top of them all. The quality of instruction is excellent, and the training environment is collegial, supportive, and fun, without the machismo that is so often present in other places. I also really appreciate the absence of pressure to join or buy goods/services that I don't need or am not ready for. Derderian Academy is a great place for novices interested in learning a martial art for the first time or experienced martial artists looking to expand their skill set.

Source: Google

★ 5

My son has come such a long way since he started at the Derderoam Academy-Martial Arts. This school has taught my son so many things that I could of never taught him myself. He has manners, self discipline, respect, and self confidence that he never even came close to having before he started taking Derderian classes. I believe the schools Senses are very well trained and know the needs of each person or child that is studying there. They work with the individuals to progress in their training of the martial arts. My son used to run from people but now he hold his head high and stands his ground.He was having problems focusing in school and getting in trouble. Now he is on the honor roll with outstanding efforts in all subjects. It just fills my heart with such joy to see all this transform in him and it has a lot to do with Derderian Academy-Martial Arts. A big thank you goes to all the Senses and helpers at this school !!!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Sensei Raffi and Sensei Susan are infectious in their dedication to the martial arts. My classmates are equally dedicated and a great pleasure to work with. An amazing experience.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been taking the Kali class for the last year and absolutely love it. I had training at another school for 6 years prior to joining Derderian and didn't learn 1/5th of the kali techniques that I have here for a year. Single stick, double stick, single knife, double knife, stick and knife, and empty hands the amount of information you get is overwhelming...I keep a notebook just so I can remember all the techniques. Sifu Raffi, Sifu Garret and Sifu Todd are all excellent instructors and take the time to not only go over the techniques with you but also how it applies to real world scenarios. If other schools tell you they teach kali, they are only skimming the surface...if you really want to learn the art...take this class. Highly recommended!

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter started at DAMA about 6 months ago and loves it! We've already seen her progression in both skills and self confidence- she looks forward to every class!

Source: Google

★ 5

For realistic, effective and high caliber Martial arts instruction there is no other place to go in Johnston than Derderian Academy! The lineage is legendary, the instruction is top-notch, the facility is professional and the staff is personal and caring! I cannot recommend Derderian Academy enough. In fact all the instructors at Derderian Academy are welcoming, courteous, professional, safe and have the best interest of the students in mind constantly! A rare find in the martial arts community, indeed. It also offers a well-rounded curriculum including both traditional and more modern "styles" from Kempo and Kali to Jeet Kune Do. Make the extremely wise choice right from the start... choose Derderian Academy. You will be very glad you did!

I am a long time student of Sifu Raffi and have continually grown because of his wealth of knowledge and guidance as my instructor. Even though I train under Sifu Raffi, I have also been around and trained with many others. Many experiences have taught me, Sifu Raffi is distinctly different and far above the rest!

Source: Google

★ 5

Sensei Raffi and Susan are sincere in their approach to teaching martial arts. The moment you walk into the studio you feel like you are welcome. My son and I are taking Kempo classes in the childrens and adult program respectively. The level of instruction is fantastic. The classes are well rounded with emphasis on conditioning, defensive techniques, forms and sparring. The classes are fun and you will learn something new every class. We look forward to each class. I believe you will not find a better martial arts studio around.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you're looking for real, quality martial arts training in Rhode Island, this is the spot!

I'm a long time student of the DAMA Jeet Kune Do and Kali programs. They are both top-notch, and I recommend them to anyone looking to take their training to an elite level. The staff instructors are all very professional and skilled, and Sifu Raffi (head instructor) is an amazing source of martial arts knowledge!

Source: Google