Business Details
10 Years
experience
Your Martial Arts Journey Starts Here in Bristol, CT
Ascension Athletics was founded in 2016 by Jeff Haddad, a former pediatric therapist and two-time IBJJF World Champion, to create a supportive environment where individuals of all skill levels can achieve their martial arts and personal growth goals. Our academy combines decades of competitive experience with a commitment to community, offering tailored instruction in MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and striking disciplines. We prioritize accessibility through our scholarship program funded by local businesses, ensuring martial arts education remains inclusive for families of all backgrounds.Our team of certified instructors brings diverse expertise in both competition and self-defense, fostering a culture of discipline, respect, and continuous improvement. With structured guidelines for safety and a focus on mental and physical development, we serve students from beginner hobbyists to competitive athletes across Bristol and surrounding communities.
Services
MMA Classes
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Striking Training
Kids Martial Arts
Teens Programs
Self-Defense Workshops
Competition Prep
Scholarship Program
Women's Only Classes
Open Mat Sessions
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- Our instructors include IBJJF World Champions with 20+ years of combined teaching experience.
- We offer a scholarship program funded by local businesses to ensure accessibility.
- Structured guidelines prioritize safety and inclusivity for all participants.
- Classes cater to ages 5+ with age-specific curricula for optimal development.
- We integrate therapeutic principles from martial arts and occupational therapy backgrounds.
What people say
Supportive coaches
Great community
Life-changing growth
Empowering workouts
Welcoming atmosphere
Services
MMA Classes
Our MMA program combines striking, grappling, and wrestling techniques in a structured environment. Students develop discipline and physical resilience while learning practical self-defense skills. The curriculum accommodates all experience levels from beginners to competitive fighters.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Specializing in no-gi training, our BJJ classes focus on leverage-based techniques and submission holds. Students improve problem-solving skills and build confidence through progressive drills and controlled sparring sessions for all proficiency levels.
Striking Training
This program integrates Muay Thai, boxing, and kickboxing techniques to enhance precision and power. Participants develop cardiovascular fitness while mastering stand-up combat skills applicable to both self-defense and competitive scenarios.
Kids Martial Arts
Age-specific classes for children aged 5-14 teach fundamental martial arts principles while promoting physical coordination and character development. The curriculum balances technical instruction with engaging activities to maintain young learners' interest.
Scholarship Program
Through local business partnerships, we provide financial assistance to families unable to afford regular martial arts training. This initiative ensures accessibility to our programs regardless of economic background while fostering community connections.
People
Jeff Haddad
Owner & Head Instructor
Former pediatric therapist and two-time IBJJF World Champion with 18 years of martial arts instruction experience. Combines therapeutic principles with combat training to create adaptive learning environments for diverse students.
Jack Stapleton
Instructor
Certified martial arts coach specializing in technique refinement and student progression. Focuses on creating personalized development plans that align with individual goals and learning styles.
Casey Norton
Instructor
Experienced trainer with expertise in competition preparation and advanced grappling techniques. Emphasizes technical precision and strategic thinking during sparring sessions for intermediate and advanced students.
Rob Cole
Instructor
Specializes in striking fundamentals and conditioning programs. Develops curriculum that balances physical development with practical self-defense applications for both youth and adult participants.
Glenn Pierce
Instructor
Focuses on beginner education and foundational skill development. Creates welcoming environments for new students while maintaining technical rigor in all instructional sessions.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (no-gi focused), and striking programs combining Muay Thai, boxing, and kickboxing techniques.
Are classes available for complete beginners?
Yes! Our curriculum accommodates all skill levels with dedicated beginner classes and experienced partners for new students.
What equipment is required for training?
Basic gear includes rash guards, shorts, and mouthpieces. Gi uniforms are provided for BJJ classes, with optional protective equipment recommended.
Do you offer family discounts?
We provide 10% off each package for multiple family members, with special arrangements available for three or more participants.
What age groups do your programs serve?
We have classes for children as young as 5, teens, and adults, with age-specific curricula tailored to developmental needs and physical capabilities.
Is there a trial period available?
We offer a free trial week with access to all classes, allowing potential members to experience our programs before committing.
