Elite Force Martial Arts

Strength, Discipline, Victory

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Don't wait any longer—take the first step towards a stronger, more empowered you. Join us today and start your martial arts adventure with Elite Force.

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About Us

Elite Force Martial Arts

Elite Force Martial Arts was founded by Shihan Craig Haley in June 2003. Shihan Haley's journey into martial arts stemmed from a personal struggle—he faced bullying as a 10-year-old and lacked the skills to defend himself. Martial arts became his transformative tool, empowering him with self-defense techniques and bolstering his confidence.

Our passion lies in empowering our students, achieved through our unique mixed martial arts system. This system, a fusion of Kempo Karate, Muay Thai Kickboxing, and Jiu-Jitsu self-defense, equips our students to handle stand-up altercations and ground scenarios with confidence. With an emphasis on constant improvement, our approach ensures that students continuously learn and build upon their skills.

Additionally, we prioritize the holistic development of our students, particularly evident in our kids’ programs. Through the ABCs of a Black Belt—Attitude, Behavior, Character—we instill invaluable life skills, contributing to academic success and personal growth.

Our commitment extends to adult learners through our Peak Performers program, where success principles and personal development strategies are shared to enrich both personal and professional lives. At Elite Force Martial Arts, we embody KAIZEN, the philosophy of continuous improvement, ensuring our students evolve not just as martial artists, but as individuals equipped for success in all facets of life.

Meet Our Founders

Our Skilled Team

Shihan Craig Haley

Craig Haley is a 7th Degree Black Belt in Kempo Karate/Muay Thai Kickboxing and a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with 35+ years of martial arts and teaching experience. He is an award winning instructor and speaker. His passion is to inspire people to be confident, focused, and strong through the martial arts. He has also authored two e-books, entitled “Raising a Champion for Life: 10 Keys to Making Your Child Happy, Successful, and Confident" and "Is Martial Arts Just for Kids? No Way!"

Shihan Melissa Haley

Shihan Melissa is a 5th Degree Black Belt with 20+ years of martial arts experience. She is a marathon runner, has competed in triathlons, and is an undefeated kickboxer. Her passion is to teach and inspire young children to develop confidence in themselves and a positive “I can do it” attitude! Shihan Craig and Melissa Haley live in Deerfield Beach, which is the neighboring city to where the dojo is located, in Lighthouse Point.

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Types of Classes

Elite Dragons: Ages 4 to 6 years old

Introduce your young ones to martial arts in a fun and supportive environment. Our program develops motor skills, coordination, and confidence through age-appropriate activities and games. Children learn respect and discipline while laying the foundation for lifelong well-being.
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Junior Achievers: Ages 7 to 12 years old

Tailored for children aged 7 to 12, our program combines martial arts training with character development. Students cultivate essential life skills such as respect, responsibility, and resilience. Engaging classes foster confidence and leadership qualities beyond the dojo.
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Adult Peak Performers: Ages 13 and up

Our comprehensive program offers dynamic martial arts training for teens and adults. Participants develop strength, flexibility, and self-defense skills while embracing discipline and perseverance. Empower yourself to achieve personal goals and unlock your full potential.
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Class Schedule

Our training hours

Selecting a Martial Arts School

7 thing to look for

Convenient Location

The gym has to be within a 5 mile radius so it is convenient enough for you to make it to class at least 2 times per week. If the school is further away than that, it will be difficult to make it consistently when you factor in traffic and other life distractions.
Convenient Schedule

The schedule should offer times that are convenient for your schedule. The goal is to train 2 timers per week, so the schedule should have some early and late options to give you some options depending on how your day plays out.
No Contracts

If a martial arts school is making you sign a 6-month or a year contract that should raise a red flag. If they make you sign a contract, that means they do not have confidence in their instructors and their curriculum. They feel they have to lock you in to make sure you stay. Beware!
Positive and Respectful Culture

The atmosphere of the dojo should be very welcoming, positive, and respectful. The instructors and other students should be friendly and welcoming. Martial Arts begins and ends with respect. That should be obvious when you enter the school and are training in class.
Clean and Organized Facility

The dojo should be neat and clean. When you walk in, the gym should smell good, and all the equipment, shoes, and personal belongings of the other students should be put away in their proper place. The mats should be clean and dry when you begin your class. The bathrooms should be pristine and the garbage cans should not be overflowing.
Great Reputation

The school should have a positive reputation in the community. Check the Google reviews and other reviews online. If their rating is a 4.5 or lower, look for another school. The student service should be top notch and the staff should be friendly and willing to help you solve whatever challenges you may have.
Emphasis on Character Education

Martial Arts training is known for helping their students develop a positive attitude, discipline, and confidence. Make sure the instructors are talking with the students about those life skills and reinforcing them on and off the mats. Martial Arts is a vehicle to develop life skills that will help you in other areas of life.