Business Details
Kids Martial Arts Training in Portland, ME
Stonecoast Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was founded to provide Maine's youth with a unique martial arts experience focused on personal development and physical fitness. As the Northeast's first kids-only BJJ facility, we create a structured yet engaging environment where children aged 4-16 build confidence through martial arts training. Our curriculum combines Brazilian Jiu Jitsu fundamentals with wrestling techniques, emphasizing character development alongside technical skills.With experienced instructors who have competed nationally and internationally, we foster a family-oriented atmosphere that prioritizes sportsmanship and lifelong growth. Our programs are designed to meet students at their skill level, offering age-appropriate challenges that promote discipline, coordination, and community connection. Through daily classes and personalized mentorship, we help young athletes develop both physical capabilities and essential life skills.
Services
Fundamental BJJ
Little War Elephant Program
War Elephant Classes
Wrestling and No-Gi Takedowns
Free Trial Class
Highlights and features
- We are Maine's first dedicated kids-only Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school
- Instructors include black belts with national/international competition experience
- Age-specific programs for children aged 4-16 with tailored challenges
- Combines BJJ fundamentals with wrestling techniques for comprehensive training
- Family-oriented environment emphasizing character development alongside technical skills
Services
Fundamental BJJ
Our core Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program teaches essential techniques and principles to students of all experience levels. Classes focus on proper form, positional control, and gradual skill progression. This foundational training develops physical coordination while instilling discipline and respect through structured partner drills and supervised practice sessions.
Little War Elephant Program
Designed for 4-6 year olds, this program combines martial arts fundamentals with age-appropriate physical activities. Through structured games and simplified drills, children develop motor skills, focus, and basic self-defense techniques. The curriculum emphasizes fun engagement while building foundational coordination and classroom discipline in a supportive environment.
War Elephant Classes
Tailored for students aged 7-12, these classes introduce more complex BJJ techniques while maintaining developmental appropriateness. Partner drills and controlled sparring sessions help build confidence through practical application. The program emphasizes progressive skill acquisition while fostering peer relationships and mentorship opportunities with senior students.
Wrestling and No-Gi Takedowns
This specialized program integrates wrestling techniques with BJJ takedown strategies in a no-gi format. Students learn dynamic movement patterns and transitional techniques applicable to competitive scenarios. The training develops explosive power and spatial awareness through repetitive drilling and controlled live practice sessions focused on practical grappling applications.
Free Trial Class
We offer complimentary trial classes allowing prospective students to experience our training environment firsthand. Participants receive basic instruction in fundamental techniques while experiencing our structured yet welcoming atmosphere. This session provides an opportunity to assess program suitability while meeting instructors and current students in a pressure-free setting.
People
Shaun Durfee
Founder/Coach
Black belt with 16+ years teaching experience, former national/international competitor, and history educator. Combines martial arts expertise with youth development focus at Stonecoast, emphasizing character growth through structured training.
Carl Nguyen
Head Instructor
Black belt under Jay Jack with specialized focus on martial arts philosophy and self-improvement. Brings technical expertise and diverse martial arts perspective to Stonecoast's instructional team through dedicated teaching practice.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We accept children aged 4-16 with specialized programs for different developmental stages, including our Little War Elephant Program for 4-6 year olds.
Do I need prior martial arts experience?
No prior experience is required. Our classes accommodate all skill levels with progressive training that adapts to each student's experience and ability.
What should I wear for the trial class?
For the free trial class, wear comfortable athletic clothing. We provide loaner gear and can advise on proper uniform requirements during your first session.
Are the classes safe for children?
Safety is our priority. Instructors supervise all activities, with age-appropriate techniques and controlled sparring. Our structured environment emphasizes proper technique over intensity for safe skill development.
How often should students attend classes?
We recommend 2-3 weekly sessions for optimal progress, though our flexible schedule accommodates different availability preferences while maintaining consistent training benefits.
