Behind the doors of Combat Corner and White Lotus Jiu Jitsu gyms, Milwaukee youths are gaining confidence while learning self-defense through martial arts.

The gyms are run by City Champs, a Milwaukee-based nonprofit that seeks to transform the lives of Milwaukee youths through free martial arts classes. 

Aimed at children, ages 6 to 17, the program provides training in self-defense, kickboxing and White Lotus jiu-jitsu at no charge, breaking down financial barriers that typically limit access to the martial arts for underprivileged Milwaukee youths.  

The classes are held at local gyms and through outreach programs in local schools and in the community, City Champs teaches kids vital self-defense skills, along with confidence building, problem-solving and stress management skills. 

Expanding programs in the community

City Champs has two permanent locations: Its North Side location is at Combat Corner, 6353 W. Douglas Ave., and its South Side location is at White Lotus Jiu Jitsu, 420 S. First St.  

Executive Director Nick Lee said his organization wants to expand programming and launch more satellite programs in the community, with the hope of attracting more Milwaukee youths to the program.

“We build really strong relationships with the kids. And there’s some kids that have been in our classes for like, two years now,” Lee said. “The kids have built a whole bunch of confidence through training in martial arts and have such a good time. “

More than martial arts

City Champs collaborates with local schools and organizations to implement its “Building Character” programs, aimed at teaching kids self-defense and how to build confidence at a young age.

This experience has positively influenced 14-year-old Lauryn Perry’s interactions at school and in her daily life. 

“When I need to defend myself in a situation, I know what to do in that scenario. I learned what to do if a bully were to hold me still. I know the way to get out and go ask for help,” Lauryn said. 

City Champs opened its doors in 2017. Through funding from grants and donations from the community, the nonprofit has been able to offer hundreds of Milwaukee-area children martial arts training at no charge. 

Traditional youth martial arts memberships can range from $90 to $150 monthly. 

‘Confidence is who she is’

Lauryn Perry’s mother, Luretha, said they discovered City Champs at a back-to-school rally at the beginning of the school year and saw it as a great way for Lauryn to stay active. 

Now, two years later, Lauryn remains engaged in the program, and her mother has noticed a boost in her confidence.

“Her attitude overall has changed. She used to be shy and more fearful,” Luretha Perry said. “But now she stands her ground, is independent-minded and confidence is who she is.” 

Navigating challenging situations

Lee said martial arts teaches restraint, respect and peaceful ways to resolve conflicts, while helping individuals avoid unnecessary confrontations.

That is why Lee is passionate about introducing martial arts to youths. He said martial arts can also give kids the emotional control to help them navigate challenging situations on-and-off the mat. 

“If you can build confidence through your abilities, that is a huge way you can then carry that confidence through other areas of your life,” he said.

For more information

Classes are held from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Check out City Champs’ website here to sign up and see the varying ages for classes.