Pennsylvania Combat Sports

Reviews

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  Dominique Bell

  Four years ago I began to look for a local martial arts program that would help me feel more confident moving through the world and fortunately, my first consultation was with PACS. I could go on all day about how knowledgeable the coaches are across various disciplines such as kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Brazilian jiu jitsu, but I’d instead prefer to focus on my experience there as a woman as it provides a unique and less heard perspective. I think it goes without saying that feeling safe as a woman or girl doesn’t really come easily, but not a lot of people talk about how finding a safe space to teach you the fighting skills to counteract that can be just as difficult. It is all too common to come across the typical “boy’s club” of a gym where a woman may feel completely ostracized, isolated, or uncomfortable training, but at PACS, you most likely won’t feel that way. There were months-long stretches where I was the only woman training in the striking classes and yet I was never disrespected or made to feel like a burden by the male students. Drama here isn’t welcomed and if a problem does arise, it’s handled swiftly and appropriately. Learning practical self-defense skills is why I started at PACS but its culture and community are why I stayed. The classes are tough here but fun so if you’re looking for a school/gym that challenges you and keeps you engaged all while safely teaching you the necessary skills to defend yourself, PACS is the place I recommend.

  Posted 1 year ago
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  Huffy B

  PA combat sports changed my life. I came into the gym as a 16 year old with no confidence and no direction in life and by the time I left I understood the value of toughness and hard work. The coaches and training partners gave me a taste of real life that led me to be able to fight later on in life and be successful in areas that extended beyond combat sports. I can’t recommend this place highly enough.

  Posted 1 year ago
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  Rebecca Vukin

  I enjoyed my time training at PACS immensely. Casey is a knowledgable coach and makes the learning process easy whether you've never tried boxing or have been boxing for years. I was never uncomfortable at this gym and always felt empowered to keep pushing myself. I would highly recommend this gym to anyone looking to start or continue a boxing journey.

  Posted 1 year ago
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  Nathan Sakal

  I have been training BJJ at PACS for well over a decade now and can't say enough about the positivity this gym has brought my life. The instructors are all top of the line and have competed at the highest levels of the sport. The gym is also perfect for hobbyists that are just looking for a fun way to stay in shape. The atmosphere is very supportive as you develop teammates and surround yourself with positive hardworking individuals that are also looking for the best out of themselves. Highly recommend PACS for your martial arts training!

  Posted 1 year ago
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  Bryan May

  Amazing place to train. I have trained in a few different gyms over the years but PACS is especially great. PACS has expert level instructors for all classes but most importantly the learning environment here is perfect. If you’re looking to compete or just want to get in shape while learning real and effective fighting techniques this is the place for you. Instructors and training partners are supportive and will push you to be the best version of yourself if you put in the effort. I would recommend this gym to anyone interested in learning combat sports.

  Posted 1 year ago
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  Desiree Luzader

  Our Sons have had the best experiences at PACS. Now 15 & 17 they started their journeys with PACS at the young ages of 4 & 6. The self respect as well as the physical and mental strength gained was priceless. The family atmosphere of men, women & children of various ages and abilities was always inclusive and supportive. They learned lifelong skills & techniques of how to properly deal with so many various scenarios that may arise in their lifetimes. They learned how to lose, how to truly work and earn your place and how to win. They also learned that you can never be too prepared to help yourself as well as others at any given moment. They learned that the only thing you can truly control in this life is your reaction. The philosophies that Professor Casey exemplifies are those of integrity, honor and respect. We cannot recommend this invaluable community enough. It no doubtedly changed the trajectory of our boys high school careers by instilling confidence to keep their heads held high and their minds clear. Not too mention the edge it gave them in school sports. Honestly, I would choose to be a part of this community over and over again. Iron sharpens iron… always.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 1 year ago
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  John Millantz

  My only regret is that I didn’t start training sooner. Casey has the real world knowledge for real life situations. All of the coaches are great people who will always stop and help. The gym is extremely clean and disrespect isn’t tolerated. Great for those who are experienced or for someone who’s brand new. This is the best gym in the area. The pricing is extremely fair. The confidence and knowledge you will learn here is unmatched. Not only will you train but you will become a better person. 10/10 would recommend.

  Instructors Facility Pricing Atmosphere

  Posted 3 years ago
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  Tony DiMauro

  Seriously trained at two different gyms in New York City for a few years before stopping due to an injury. When my career brought me to PA, I took nearly eleven years off to focus on work. I decided to get back into kickboxing, and found PACS from searching online. I'm glad I did, PACS has provided the best instruction I've ever received: instructor is knowledgeable, techniques are nicely broken down, communicated clearly and demonstrated well. A wide range of techniques for all skill levels are taught, from fundamentals to advanced techniques. Classes are balanced with fitness focused segments to drills to skill based lessons. Fundamentals are never glossed over. Perhaps what I'm most impressed with is Casey's attention to detail: I've learned a number of helpful tweaks and new techniques that have expanded my fighting vocabulary and helped me become more effective overall, including crossover tips that touch on other aspects of fitness such as lifting, stretching, etc. Also impressive is Casey's ability to read the room and adjust to the class on the fly, breaking things down further when necessary. Classes are welcoming for new students, and the instructor does an excellent job keeping an eye on safety. After a few injuries I sustained fighting where I previously trained, I was happy to see that sparring (which is optional) is well monitored at PACS, helmets are required, and weight/skill levels are properly matched. I've been at PACS for about a year, which means I've had time to experience it and can honestly compare it to other established gyms. So, if you've ever wanted to learn to fight but have been on the fence, don't hesitate to sign up for PACS. If you're returning to fighting after many years (like me), I promise your skills will grow here and you'll become part of the community in no time. Highly recommend!!

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 3 years ago
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  Anna

  Excellent training facility with world class coaching staff. Very clean facility with flexible training schedules and appropriate pricing. Couldn’t recommend the BJJ program enough!

  Instructors Facility Pricing

  Posted 4 years ago
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  Ian McHugh

  Training here was an awesome experience that I can’t say enough about. As a beginner to mixed martial arts the environment was very welcoming and goal-oriented. Casey is a great coach who is knowledgeable, helpful, and will push you to do the best that you can. Other students in my Combat Striking class were equally as helpful and welcoming. When I started training in Boxing at my college, I felt like this class had given me a very good grasp of the basics, and had prepared me well for the future of my goals training in MMA. The mentality of hard work and focus in the gym is incredible. If you are in the area and are thinking of training for whatever your goals are, I can’t reccomend this place enough! Big thanks to everyone there that helped me out and gave me a passion for training in combat sports.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 4 years ago
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  Johnny Dang

  I starting training in PACS in 2020 as new hobby and way to decompress after grad school classes. The atmosphere is great--challenging, but not overly competitive, and overall very encouraging. Professor Casey and the entire coaching team provide expert instruction and facilitate an excellent gym culture. No matter what your goal, be it general fitness, self defense, or competition, there is a place for you here. Everyone is very welcoming and I love hitting the mats after a long day of studying or exams. I've gotten in the best physical shape of my life over the past year, and the boost in confidence and discipline has noticeably improved other areas of my life as well. If you're interested in real and effective martial arts, Pennsylvania Combat Sports is THE place to train!

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 5 years ago
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  Matt Gallo

  I’ve been training at Pennsylvania Combat Sports since 2014. I live in downtown Pittsburgh and there are a lot of other places I could train at that are only minutes from my house, but I choose to make the trip to Greensburg to train at PACS. That in itself should speak volumes as to the high quality of training, knowledge and people there.

  Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

  Posted 5 years ago
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  Chris Dunn

  Training Jiu-Jitsu under the excellent staff a PACS is one of the most physically and mentally rewarding things, I have every done. They teach you to push yourself beyond what you think you can do. With their guidance and expertise you learn skill you never thought you could. You won’t be sorry when you choose to start your journey with PACS.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 5 years ago
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  Jesse Weir

  In 2017 my wife and I decided that it was time to look at alternative activities outside of the our sons school and our community. Sometimes organized sports are not a great fit for all who try them. Sometimes kids are not receiving the appropriate amount of attention they need to be successful or are not being exposed to something besides our basic cookie cutter sports/activities. After little research it was obvious to us to contact Pa Combat Sports. Professor Casey and all the coaches have a ton of experience and do a great job with keeping our kids having fun and learning a real world skill. It also gave me an opportunity to join the adult program and get in a much better place mentally and physically. Doing this helped me create a beautiful bond with my son and helped me lead him by example. We are grateful. Highly recommend!!

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 5 years ago
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  Kana Moy

  I have been training at Pennsylvania Combat Sports since it opened in August of 2010. The instruction that I have received here has always been top notch. The owner/operator promotes a great environment that is conducive to learning. The facility is always clean and disinfected regularly. There are people from all different walks of life that train at PACS on any given day and everyone gets along. I truly believe that PACS offers a lot of training and classes that you won’t find at any other Martial Arts schools in the area. If you are serious about wanting to learn combative’s in a professional environment, check out PACS. You won’t be disappointed.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 5 years ago
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  Daniel McConnell

  Very good place!!! 36 years old and never trained in martial arts before but ,they help you along here!!!

  Instructors Facility Atmosphere

  Posted 7 years ago
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  Mark Matthews

  I would rate 10 stars if I could. Cannot say enough good things about this place. Casey has a great, no-nonsense approach to teaching. You get an incredible workout and learn how to properly fight from someone who CLEARLY has great experience. Right now I'm 2 months into the Combat Striking program and 100% love it. Casey pushes you to reach outside of your comfort zone, but he doesn't push too hard. The striking work with partners is great and the 10 minute "warmup's" will get you in shape by itself. The facility is great. Clean, non-intimidating for new comers. Fellow students are great, friendly and encouraging.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 7 years ago
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  Aj Auckerman

  Highly recommend! The coaches and members are very good and knowledgeable. It has an atmosphere for learning and bettering yourself. So much respect for both the people and the sport. If your ever looking for something different and want to better yourself then step up and give it a shot.

  Instructors Atmosphere

  Posted 7 years ago
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  S smith

  Excellent instructors!

  Instructors

  Posted 8 years ago
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  Bill Bigelow

  What a professional and safe place to learn bjj. Coaches are top notch and have loads of experience! The instructor, coach Casey has built this school from the ground up in an area that not to long ago was not known for Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. This school has many training options for a busy schedule and a very professional environment that is kid friendly (locker room talk nonexistent). The reputation of the school is placed on a strong foundation of committed teaching that draws experience from a professional competition circuit (google ibjjf). The exposure to world class champions occurs on a regular basis through seminars and various training opportunities. I can't say enough about this school! Bottom line, great place to learn/explore the bjj craft and maintain a life of fitness, at the very least!

  Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  Bruce Charles

  I have been training at PA Combat Sports for over 4 years now and I look forward to every day I get to walk through the doors and step on the mats. The instructors are very knowledgeable and passionate about teaching their craft, whether it is BJJ or striking. If you want to be a healthier you and have fun while doing it, I cannot recommend a better gym. In addition to the regular training, the owner offers a variety of other classes throughout the year that are either free or heavily discounted to members. Come check PA Combat Sports out and you will not be disappointed!

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  jmusiol663

  I can't say enough positive things about this gym. It is run by an excellent instructor who does a great job tailoring his teaching style to the specific goals of his students. The students are very friendly as well and it goes a long way to making you feel welcome when you first start out.

  Instructors Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  Ryan Gilkey

  Knowledgeable and friendly instructors and staff. Great members and atmosphere. Would 100% recommend to anyone interested in martial arts.

  Instructors Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  Rob Riazzi

  Walked in here over 4 years ago and never left. Since then ive trained at many other schools around the US when traveling for work. This place is without a doubt a world class facility right here in Greensburg, PA. If you are interested in learing martial arts, the technical abilities of the instructors and their ability to teach and relate will not let you down. If you want to take that a step further and push yourself to the limits, there is never a lack of top notch training partners there to push each other to the limits in order to improve their technique, conditioning and stamina in preparation for competition or just because. If you want to learn the best martial art in the world from the best instructors, you owe it to yourself to call and arrange for a consultation!!

  Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  Kana Moy

  I have been training at Pennsylvania Combat Sports since it opened. It is the ultimate one stop shop for Combat Sports. The owner and staff are all top notch professionals who treat you with respect. If you are serious about getting in shape and learning real world self defense, stop in and check out Pennsylvania Combat Sports. You won't regret it.

  Instructors Facility Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  Jason Luczka

  Have been coming to PACS for 9 months now and couldn't be happier with my experience. Doing jiu jitsu is a great way to get into shape without dreading the gym and you learn a real world applicable skill in the process. The staff here are respectful and friendly while providing a great learning environment for all fitness levels. I've made new friends as well as getting friends outside the gym to join with more on the way. Highly recommend.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  Mike Caruso

  Been training here for many many years and I would highly recommend it! Whatever your goals are (cardio/self defense/jiu jitsu) or just an escape from a regular dull gym experience, you should give this place a shot.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  joshua jones

  Awesome place!

  Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  Kurt Lewis

  So I been training at pacs for 2 years and 1 month. I don't even know where to begin but I'm gonna start with this I lost 78 pounds to date am stronger than I've ever been and I'm 34 years old. The owner Casey leanord,is so dedicated to making sure everyone goes through the proper steps to get the training fulfillment that best fits them. I've followed the gyms format and am now a blue belt in Brazilian jujitsu.i also train striking and mma.at the gym and have learned so many things not only in hand to hand combat but I learned so much about myself along the way. Not all gyms are the same. Egos are left behind and it's all about everyone getting better and better. I've dabbled at 3 gyms along the way and walked away each time .a week after being at pacs I knew I found my home for all my training and fitness goals. I owe a huge thanks to this entire place including coaches who go above and beyond to make your goals a reality. Thanks pacs.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  Johnny Boswell

  if you want to be in the best shape of your life learn how to defend yourself and have fun doing it this is the place for you

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  micah metz

  Been training here for over a year now. I haven't ever met such a large group of people with just the upmost respect. The place is also well rounded. I will recommend to anyone looking to compete or people who are looking for a fun way work out.

  Facility Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago
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  Mike Shannon

  An awesome experience every single time I attend class. They really care about your improvement and will work with anyone, no matter their skill level.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 11 years ago
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  Ryan Mulvehill

  My wife and I started taking BJJ here about four months ago. We kicked around the idea of taking some form of martial arts for years. The staff and students are very friendly, we felt welcome from day one. The classes are challenging and a lot of fun. I would recommend this place to anyone.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 11 years ago
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  Anonymous User

  I have been attending classes at PA Combat Sports for a long time. Several years ago, though, I moved away and took BJJ lessons at other legitimate schools around the country (both with strong ties to the Gracie family), and based upon those experiences I can honestly say that this school is the real deal. If you want to learn how to fight, I strongly believe that there is no better place in the eastern Pittsburgh suburbs, if not all of Pittsburgh. Their teaching of BJJ is very tight--no sloppiness-- which is why their competitors do so well, I believe. Additionally, I think they really emphasize overall physical fitness, which is another reason they do so well in competition. When I returned to the area, I began taking classes here again, only now they have bigger and better facilities than before. I have to disagree with other posters who complain about unfriendliness. This is a very busy school, and I think that can sometimes account for unreturned phone calls almost anywhere you go. But it also isn't for the overly sensitive or faint of heart--BJJ in general is not an easy martial art to practice, especially for beginners, and this school takes it very seriously. I think at all strong BJJ schools there is a bit of a need for new students to prove their dedication at first, and this school is no different. But I have found that the instructors are very helpful and the students aren't all trying to submit one another at any cost. The whole place is like a team and everyone tries to help each other. See you on the mat!

  Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

  Posted 11 years ago
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  Chuck Dietz

  With absolutely no fighting experience, I began training at PACS almost 2 years ago. Started with boxing and brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) gi, but have more recently been training BJJ for all my sessions. PACS offers both morning and evening classes, so I'm able to train around my work schedule. Personally, I've found the atmosphere very positive--you won't find anybody with arrogant egos here. Casey and the coaches are always helping us out on both the class level as well as the individual level when it comes to learning and drilling the different warm-ups, positions, and submission techniques. The curriculum is also easy to follow because they focus on a specific set of concepts/moves each month instead of scattering them. The occasional seminars from national professionals is always a plus, too! As far as phone communication goes, I've had to relay a message through a PACS representative a couple of times, but PACS has usually been good on returning my calls. Overall, excellent experience.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 11 years ago
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  Mikayla Murin

  I've been training at PA combat sports for about a year and couldn't be happier there. I talk about it all the time and recommend it to anybody and everybody. All the coaches have tremendous experience in both combat striking and BJJ and are passionate about training and it most definitely shows in their coaching. They are personable and know dedicated students by name. I know ive learned things here that could save my life one day. The atmosphere is welcoming, I've never felt uncomfortable and I always personally see the matts being cleaned after practices. Everybody here works great together like one big, happy family.

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 11 years ago
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  Chris Fouad

  I was currently not working at the time and had the money to pay. but I was completely discouraged by this guy named Casey. He kept putting me down based on my current position and pestered me about employment. I would not recommend this place and deserve at least an apology. your occupation is private and is no one's business.

  Instructors Facility Atmosphere

  Posted 9 years ago