Haines City's top-rated martial arts school, building confidence, discipline, and community for students of all ages.
What We Stand For
Everything we do is guided by a set of values that shape our instruction, our community, and the experience of every student who walks through our doors.
We teach structure and consistency that build strong habits on the mat and in everyday life. Discipline isn't punishment; it's the foundation for achievement.
Mutual respect between students, instructors, and our community is non-negotiable. We lead by example and hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity.
We celebrate progress at every level, not just trophies and belt promotions. Every small victory builds the self-belief that carries into school, work, and life.
Our doors are open to all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. Whether you're 5 or 55, a complete beginner or an experienced practitioner, you belong here.
A clean facility, trained staff, and age-appropriate instruction aren't optional. They're our baseline. Parents trust us with their children, and we take that responsibility seriously.
We're more than a gym. We're a second family. Our students support each other, celebrate each other's wins, and build friendships that last well beyond the mat.
Why Families Choose Us
Our certified instructors bring years of experience and follow a proven curriculum designed to build skills at every level. With a clean, welcoming facility and a supportive team, families feel at home from day one.
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Meet the Team
Our instructors are the heart and soul of our academy. Every member of our team is dedicated to helping you reach your full potential.
Owner & Head Instructor
Diego Hernandez is the owner and head instructor of Haines City Sports Karate Center, where families know him as Sensei Diego. He leads the school's Team Ryoshi competition squad, whose students have brought home trophies and medals from events like the ISKA US Open and WAKO Puerto Rico.
Instructor
What Our Community Says
Don't just take our word for it. Hear from the students and families who train with us every day.
"This is a great center for our Kids. I definitely must say Diego, who is incredibly patient, attentive, and truly passionate about working with kids. He creates a safe, fun environment where they feel encouraged to learn and grow. You can tell he genuinely cares about each..."
eva corchado
"I have 2 kids they both had tryouts today. Sensie Diego was great very professional and the place is amazing. Only problem I had when I got there the place looked like it was closed but | called the owner Sensie Diego and he guided me to the back of the school for parking he..."
Gricela Diaz
"The best program!!! I drive 30 minutes from my house to this karate school, you feel like you are family!! Everybody is welcome. My kids I’ve sensei Diego!!. They also love the summer program is amazing. I really recommend this school. They also specialize in special needs like..."
Argelie Irizarry
"My granddaughters attended the karate and afterschool program, and they absolutely loved being there. The staff is amazing, and the karate instructor is very professional. The facility is always clean and well-maintained. I highly recommend Haines City Sports!"
Ayala R
"I recently moved here and sensei Diego waoo!!! He went above and beyond for my son to feel comfortable in this afterschool program!!! Thank you so much and to be honest is the best price that i have found around the area with all the benefits of afterschool and karate gymnastics..."
Gina Santiago
"Well this is a review in the making for 2 years now. Is been overdue but what i will say is based on that span of time. When we arrived to Florida was very hard to trust the after school care of our little daughter giving the fact that she has special needs. The day we enroll..."
Jimmy Lugo
"Great place amazing summer program. Also during school year after school program pick kids up at select schools"
April Hewitt
"I recommended 100% very friendly people The owner makes you feel like home my kids love the place.never had a problem with them they are on time when they pick up the kids from school if you want the kids to learn martial art this is the place to go.🙏"
Jesus Rivera
"Folks this is the school to put your child in. Top knotch instruction and discipline is on point. The owners are amazing and easy to talk to, always available to assist with any issue. I highly recommended Haines City Sports Karate & Gymnastics to anyone!!!!"
Tanker Tuff
"Diego and the teachers are fantastic! They love the kids and treat them like their own. They are very careful and caring with the kids. It’s like a family here! I highly recommend coming here."
Paola Perez
"All the staff and specially Sensei Diego are very nice and professional. My daughter is enrolled in the after school program which is awesome because offers karate and gymnastics classes. She loves to go there! She’s super happy so I’m super happy. 100% recommended!"
monica paez
"Sensei Diego and he’s staff they are very good. My son loved it. He’s start been in Summer Camp since he had 6 years old he enjoyed a lot playing and having a lot of fun. They have a lot of activities . I recommend the summer camp for kids"
Katherine Montanez
Online exclusive offer
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Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about getting started? We have answers. Browse the most common questions below, or contact us directly for anything else.
Absolutely not. Our programs are designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced martial artists. Our instructors will meet you where you are and help you progress at your own pace.
We offer programs for all ages, including juniors, kids, teens, and adults. Each program is specifically tailored to the age group's physical and developmental needs.
Comfortable athletic clothing such as a t-shirt and sweatpants or shorts is all you need. No shoes are required on the mats. We'll provide everything else you need for your first session.
We recommend attending at least two classes per week for steady progress. Consistency makes a big difference, and many of our most dedicated students train three or more times a week.
Safety is our top priority. Our certified instructors maintain a structured, supervised environment with age-appropriate techniques. We focus on controlled practice in a clean, well-maintained facility to minimize any risk of injury.
Your free trial includes a full class experience. You'll train alongside our students, meet our instructors, and get a feel for our academy. There's no obligation and no pressure. Just come ready to learn and have fun.
