Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Martial Arts Training in Pennsylvania
Villaris Self Defense Centers have been dedicated to martial arts instruction since 1967, offering comprehensive training in Shaolin Kempo Karate and Ju-Jitsu. Our programs emphasize character development, self-discipline, and community engagement, serving students of all ages across Pennsylvania. With over five decades of experience, we combine traditional techniques with modern self-defense strategies to foster personal growth and resilience.Our certified instructors prioritize individualized attention while maintaining a family-friendly environment that promotes respect, self-control, and leadership. Through annual charity events like the Kickathon and partnerships with local organizations, we reinforce our commitment to both martial arts excellence and social responsibility.
Services
Karate for Kids
Martial Arts for Teens
Self Defense for Adults
Advanced Training
Leadership Program
Colors of Character
Tournaments
Martial Arts Clinics
Enrichment Programs
Details
- Year established: 1967
Highlights and features
- We offer over 50 years of experience in martial arts instruction
- Our curriculum emphasizes character development alongside physical training
- We host annual community charity events like the Kickathon
- Flexible programs available for kids, teens, and adults
- Certified instructors trained in the Villari Shaolin-Kempo-Karate System
What people say
Great character development
Experienced instructors
Family-friendly environment
Improved confidence in kids
Community involvement
Services
Karate for Kids
Our Karate for Kids program builds discipline, focus, and respect through structured martial arts training. Designed for children of all ages, this program combines physical activity with character development lessons that reinforce school readiness and social skills. Certified instructors use age-appropriate techniques to teach self-defense while fostering confidence and perseverance in a supportive environment.
Martial Arts for Teens
The Martial Arts for Teens program addresses adolescent challenges through structured self-defense instruction. Students develop leadership skills and emotional resilience while learning practical combat techniques. This program specifically targets peer pressure resistance, decision-making abilities, and physical fitness through a curriculum that balances traditional martial arts principles with modern adolescent needs.
Self Defense for Adults
Self Defense for Adults combines physical training with situational awareness education for practical real-world applications. Participants improve fitness levels while learning effective defense techniques adaptable to various body types and experience levels. The program emphasizes confidence-building and stress relief through structured drills and scenario-based training in a supportive community environment.
Advanced Training
Advanced Training programs offer specialized instruction for dedicated students seeking mastery of martial arts techniques. These sessions include personalized weapon training, board breaking demonstrations, and leadership development opportunities. Participants receive individualized attention from senior instructors to refine their skills and deepen their understanding of the Villari Shaolin-Kempo-Karate system.
Leadership Program
The Leadership Program trains students to become mentors within the dojo and their communities. Participants develop teaching skills through assistant instructor roles while organizing community service initiatives. This program emphasizes responsibility, communication skills, and the practical application of martial arts principles in leadership positions both inside and outside the training environment.
People
Frederick J. Villari
Founder
Great Grandmaster Frederick J. Villari developed the Villari Shaolin-Kempo-Karate system over 40 years, combining traditional martial arts with modern self-defense techniques. His innovative approach revolutionized martial arts instruction for Western audiences.
Rick Madore
President
Master Rick Madore, a 10th Degree Black Belt with 40+ years experience, oversees Pennsylvania operations and business development. He created the Villaris Instructor Training Program and has established over 50 studios nationwide while maintaining technical expertise in multiple martial arts disciplines.
Harry Pfister
Vice President
8th Degree Black Belt Master Harry Pfister manages the Montgomeryville location, known for his energetic teaching style and community leadership. He organizes annual charity events and emphasizes character development through high-energy martial arts instruction tailored to different age groups.
Brian Sebastian
Regional Manager
7th Degree Black Belt Master Brian Sebastian leads the Mechanicsburg location, focusing on practical self-defense applications. With expertise in adapting techniques for different age groups, he helps students achieve personal growth through martial arts training that emphasizes real-world effectiveness.
Carl Cellini
Chief Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt Master Carl Cellini oversees Ambler operations, teaching a comprehensive curriculum including Shaolin Kempo Karate, Jui Jitsu, and Tai Chi. He emphasizes holistic martial arts education that combines physical training with philosophical understanding for students of all ages.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We teach the Villari Shaolin-Kempo-Karate system combining Japanese Karate, Kempo, Chinese Shaolin Kung Fu, and Ju-Jitsu techniques for comprehensive self-defense training.
Do you offer programs for different age groups?
Yes, we have specialized programs for children, teens, and adults with age-appropriate curriculum focusing on physical development and character building tailored to each group's needs.
Are there opportunities for community involvement?
Our Leadership Program engages students in community service projects including park cleanups, charity events, and the annual Kickathon that has raised over $160,000 for local causes.
Do you provide instructor training?
Yes, our Instructors College Program trains and certifies all instructors in both martial arts techniques and effective teaching methodologies to maintain consistent quality across all locations.
What makes your program unique?
Our focus on character development through the 3 Rules of the School (Self-Discipline, Respect, Self-Control) combined with flexible scheduling and certified instructors creates a distinctive martial arts experience.
Can I try a class before committing?
We offer free trial classes so you can experience our training environment and teaching style before making any commitment to our martial arts programs.
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