At Clarion MMA we believe in the value of what we offer. We believe that everyone can benefit from different aspects of the martial arts. Whether it is a way to calm ourselves, find focus, relieve stress or find our voice, there is something for all of us beyond just “learning to fight”.
However, no matter how inexpensive we make our memberships, we know that not everyone can afford to take part in classes. That’s why we work so hard to offer sponsorships. We offer two types, merit based and financial based.
For kids:
We feel that no child should be denied access to the benefits of the martial arts just because they can’t afford it. So, we created the Zenith Community Program. This registered, non-profit charity offers scholarships to children that need it. Please note, there is a limited amount of money to go around so a letter of need is required along with a bit of paperwork. We want to be sure that this money is requested by people that need it, and not just parents that don’t feel like paying for their kid’s activities. No child will be denied classes for financial reasons. To apply visit https://zenithcommunity.org/martial-arts-scholarships
For adults:
The Reality Check –
We don’t want to squash anybody’s dreams, but getting sponsored as an adult martial artist is hard. Sometimes we get people that come in with the goal to become a cage fighter, get sponsorships and live off the money they earn doing what they love. While this is possible for a select few individuals, this typically is not the way it goes for the vast majority of people. You should be a martial artist because you love it, not for the money. Nearly all MMA fighters pay more for training than they ever make fighting.
There are over 1,500 licenced MMA fighters in Pennsylvania alone. That’s a lot of people competing for a limited number of sponsorships. Plus, that’s only the people that have already fought, how many “up & comers” are behind them, also competing for those sponsorship dollars? The goal of this reality check is not to discourage you or your dreams, but more to give you realistic expectations.
That being said, there are options out there. Here is what we can offer:
Police Officers – Adopt a Cop BJJ is a nonprofit, donation based program that allows active duty patrolling police officers to train at any Adopt a Cop BJJ affiliated academy and they will pay 100% of the officer’s membership until they reach the rank of Blue belt. Blue belt is the second ranked belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and on average it takes around 12 to 18 months to obtain. Officers are encouraged to apply at: https://adoptacopbjj.org
Disabled Combat Veterans – The Zenith Community Program provides combat veterans coping with military connected disabilities a long term means to overcome their challenges through Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and fitness training. email info@zenithcommunity.org to apply
Military Veterans – The Zenith Community Program has started the Reinforcement Program to help all veterans. It has a continuing mission to assist local veterans with coping after their service. Whether they need a physical outlet, a mental outlet or just a place where they can be understood, we’ve got their back.
We offer access to martial arts programs, led by other veterans, that offer both a place to train and a way to exist in two worlds at once. To find out more and to apply, go to zenithcommunity.org/reinforcement-program
Will Work For It – If being a martial artist is your dream and you are willing to work for it, this option may be for you. If you can provide skilled labor in exchange for your membership, we may have an opportunity for you. Whether this is a short-term thing while you are between jobs, or you want to become our long-term “handyman”, let us know and we will see if we can find a place for your services. Email your interest to: leo@clarionmma.com
Future Champions – If you are unemployed but you know you have what it takes to be a world champion, if only someone gave you a chance, here’s that chance! If you are dedicated and disciplined enough to show up for every class, we will provide your training at no cost. To qualify you must attend every adult, group martial arts class and at least three fitness classes every week. Email your interest to: leo@clarionmma.com
Professional Athletes – After you have trained for a while and proven yourself in competition, there will be opportunities available to you if you decide to start working towards becoming a professional athlete representing our team. Based on your potential and willingness to give back to our program, these opportunities include training sponsorships, travel opportunities, gear sponsorships, and a stipend to help cover living expenses while you train. As a sponsored athlete you would be expected to live the values of a martial artist and represent our team in a positive manner. These opportunities are invite only.