My name is David Miller. My son Jacob has been training martial arts at Ivey League MMA since January of 2012 and my daughter Lauren has been training there as well since June of 2012. Martial arts have become a huge part of both of my children's lives. Having trained myself, it was important for me to find the right martial arts school and program for my children. We moved to the Annapolis area of Maryland in December of 2011. That is when I began the search for a martial arts school. I didn't just want any school I wanted the right school. That is when I found Ivey League MMA. I knew as soon as I walked through the door this is where I wanted my son to train. I saw how great the entire Ivey League staff was with all the children. They showed genuine care and concern. The instructors weren't only there to teach the kids martial arts but to teach lessons that will shape their lives and make them successful adults. When we lived in El Paso Jacob had problems with bullies. Jacob is a sweet kid and he is a friend to everyone and this is what the bullies preyed on. Since he began his training at Ivey League Jacob has grown as a person. His self-confidence increased almost immediately. He now stands up for himself and others. Bullies are no longer an issue for him. His leadership skills have improved greatly as well. You can see it in his confidence. Other kids flock to Jacob and look to him as a leader and he sets the example for them both on and off the mats. Jacob's attention to detail and meticulous nature for wanting to do things the right way are another by product of his training. I could not be happier with the young man I am seeing my son develop into. Lauren watched her brother train for six months. It was at this point she decided she wanted to start training as well. Lauren saw Jacob having fun and making friends. Her competitive nature told her that she needed to head down the martial arts path. Lauren's development has been drastically different than that of her brother's. Lauren has a strong willed spirit. The lessons she has learned are a little more humbling. The most significant improvement with her has been her discipline. She has learned to be more respectful to others and not talk back. This has in no way lessened that independent spirit of hers it has actually strengthened it. Lauren is growing and becoming a young woman who is determined and will succeed no matter the odds. Both of my children have improved their school work because of their martial arts training. They are now in accelerated programs at their school and are always on the honor roll. The discipline they apply on the mats in their training has transferred to their schoolwork. Martial arts and Ivey League are an asset to parents to help them raise successful, independent, and confident children. Master Danny Ives has put together a phenomenal program at his school. He has also assembled a staff that shares his vision and love for children. Master Ives is shaping young lives. He is setting the example for children and is an excellent role model. Most of the children that he trains probably won't go on to be martial arts champions and that is fine. They learn important life lessons from Master Ives and his staff. The children in his program will be well equipped to deal with whatever adversity life throws at them. Training at Ivey League with Master Ives has ensured this next generation will be successful and contribute greatly to society, of this I am confident. read more

We enrolled our son at Ivey League about 13 months ago and it was the best decision would could have made for him. He walked in there with zero coordination or stamina. After a few months of training with Ivey League, he was invited to join thier BBC program and up his training frequency. Since then he has completely transformed as an athlete. He is leaner and stronger than most kids his age. He was unable to do anything that even resembled a cart wheel on day one and is now doing round offs and one handed cartwheels. He performs at the top of his class in PE now . Not only that, but his academics have improved and all around, he has learned respect and responsibility. He is there 6 days a week and is absolutely addicted! He has been given the opportunity to travel internationally with team Ivey League and competes in tournaments up and down the eastcoast and was even able to fly to California in February to compete in the 2013 PanKids tournament. We have watched him transform into a very talented fighter and has decided that Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling will be a part of his life forever. Ivey League has become a way of life for our entire family. My husband and I also started training with Ivey League. It's a great cardio workout while you are learining the fundamentals of fighting and self defense. If you are looking for a belt factory, do not come here! Promotions are earned and not paid for. There is no belt testing fees like with so many other chains. We have been to 2 different karate schools and a kung fu studio and they do not even compare to Ivey League. The talent of the Ivey League instructors is simply inspiring. Everyone there is eager to help whether they are a teacher or a student, there is no shortage of world class talent in this gym everyday willing to work with anyone willing to put in the effort. They also have a woman's only bootcamp program which I did for 6 months. I lost inches and pounds while making lots of new friends. It also helped me build my strength and stamina so I could begin training in the adult muay thai program. My husband and I are there 4 nights a week and it's the best workout I've ever experienced. Plus we are there as a family! Danny and Teresa Ives are an absolutely wonderful couple that have a fantastic program right here in Arnold. They are not only talented fighters and instructors, but truly wonderful people to be around. They are very particular about the people they surround themselves with and you can be assured that your kids are in great hands with any of the instructors in this gym. We are Ivey Leaguers for life! Thanks Danny and Teresa for providing this positive atmosphere for our family to spend our time. read more

I've been a member at Ivy League MMA for seven months now. I moved to Annapolis Maryland about a year ago which was due to the Army. I was having a low point in my life with my separation. I've always wanted to take up martial arts classes and I figured now would be a good time to get started. I'm glad I did. It's one of the best decisions I've ever made. No joke. I discovered Ivey League Mix Martial Arts after i did an internet search. It seemed like a good place and was pretty close to Glen Burnie. I called about the classes and they told me to come down and try it out. So I went down there. This was when they were still at the old building in Severna Park. Right away everyone was great and I knew this was the place for me. Everyone, the staff and other students have been nothing but great. When I started I knew literally nothing and was worried I'd hold the other students back. They didn't care that I didn't have any martial arts experience. They had a bunch of beginner classes that fit into my schedule and I liked them all. Coach Brandon, who I worked with a lot was awesome. I started out in the Muay Thai Kickboxing classes and after a little time also started taking Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and MMA. I admit I like the BJJ classes the most but the others are great as well. You get a good workout and learn so many things. I can't wait until my son is old enough to take the kids classes. They have an amazing kids program from what I've seen. Thanks so much to everyone at Ivey League MMA!! It really has changed my life for the best. read more

My journey with Ivey League began 5 years ago when my then 6 yr old son wanted to give MMA a try. He was signed up and has taken to the training like a fish to water. I was particularly drawn to the structure of the program where the kids could progress at their own speed and earn their next belt when ready. There is also an academic side of the program so grades and good behavior are very important. As my son progressed, he was invited to join the Black Belt Club and train with the children who compete in tournaments. Under Master Ives instruction and motivation my son's Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Wrestling and Muay Thai has improved exponentially. Over the years I've watched my son become self aware, he is confident and his grades improve. I enjoy that he has come into his own and that he is gaining valuable experience as a mentor for the new kids coming up the ranks at Ivey League. The summer camp is top-notch and the kids have a healthy mix of training and fun activities. I have also joined the Ivey League family and utilize the training as an alternative to my triathlon / marathon training. I am honored to be a part of this community and to call Danny and Teresa Ives my friends. read more

I am beyond proud to call Danny Ives my friend and Ivey League MMA my home away from home. My family has been with Danny for 5 years now, and my son's entire life has changed as a result. He has gone from a target for bullies to a defender of others, his grades have improved, and he has gained valuable experience as an assistant instructor and mentor for the new kids coming up the ranks at Ivey League. We drive an hour and a half one way just to get to Ivey League, and it is worth every minute of heinous rush hour traffic. My son is a decorated national competitor and true martial ARTIST solely because of the time and love that his coach has invested, and there are just not enough synonyms for "awesome" to describe Ivey League and Master Danny. Incidentally, Danny Ives is given the prefix of "Master" because he is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu BLACK BELT-- not many other kids' programs can claim such a distinguished ranking professor as their instructor, and the proof of that benefit is in the results. Come to Ivey League and check it out! read more

Since 2011, I've been part of the Crazy 88 MMA family, soaking up the vibes at our Severna Park spot. It's more than just a gym--it's where our values shine bright: be there and be all in, keep pushing forward, respect the roots, and keep it pro. At Crazy 88 MMA Severna Park, the energy's always on point. Instructors don't just show up; they're all about helping you level up, one move at a time. We're all about progress here. From classic moves to fresh techniques, it's all about staying sharp and stepping up our game. Respect runs deep at our spot. We honor the old-school while embracing the new, with everyone supporting each other along the way. And hey, we keep it pro, from keeping the place clean to keeping the vibe chill. It's all about making everyone feel welcome and keeping the focus on the mat. Looking back on the last ten years, I'm stoked for what's ahead at Crazy 88 MMA Severna Park. It's not just a place to train; it's where friendships grow and skills sharpen. Here's to more awesome moments together! read more

Very positive training environment. I have been coming here for just over six months and have truly enjoyed the time I spend here. I started my daughter here because after visiting a few other places this was the cleanest and most welcoming that I found in close proximity to my house that taught Muay Thai and jiu jitsu. After her going for about a month I decided to begin training too so I could be a better role model and actually know what I was talking about when helping her. By far one of the best decisions I have made. I've made some really good friends, learned a ton, and am in the best shape I have been in in 10 years. For anyone considering martial arts to get in shape, Thai, boxing and jiu jitsu will beat an hour on the treadmill any day of the week and also teach you a skill that builds confidence that transfers to all facets of life, so if you are considering learning some of the best methods of self defense or want to become a champion jiu jitsu gal or guy give Ivey league a try. read more

I've been training at Ivey League MMA for around 3 years and its been the best experiance of my life. I came to Master Ives as a 19 year old kid sitting at or around 6'3 and 160 pounds. At 22 I'm still 6'3 but sit at a very healthy, lean 185 pounds. Now I know the norm is to want to lose weight but I can say if you were like me putting on weight was way more important. The best part about it was that it was in a fun enviroment. More importantly I came to Ivey League with zero confidence, a low self esteem, and a drive to want to learn. Three years later I'm still learning and have no problem with low confidence or self esteem. I'm in the best shape of my life, maybe its just me but the more I train in martial arts the more active I want to be outside of the gym .If your looking for a fun, clean, and instructive place to train and learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai kickboxing, Wrestling, or Judo in the Annapolis/ Severna Park area, I can say Ivey League MMA has been great to me. read more

I've been training in jiu-jitsu for about 5 years. I have trained jiu-jitsu in several different states as well as several different countries, including Colombia, Panama and Spain. And the training at Ivey League is among the best if not THE BEST that I've had. The owner, Danny Ives, is committed to not only helping his students become better practitioners but also become better persons. Danny teaches jiu-jitsu as if it were a lifestyle. He teaches the most effective jiu-jitsu techniques for both competitive jiu-jitsu as well as self-defense. But what I like most about Ivey League is that Danny encourages his students to maintain a positive focus in life which I have found helps me to overcome many of the day-to-day challenges that I encounter not only on the mat - but also off the mat. read more

As a parent, I feel strongly the fitness, discipline, respect and honor one gains from studying martial arts are essential for raising a well-rounded, confident child with a true moral compass. Searching in vain, my wife and I have enrolled our son in several schools over the past few years looking for a true master that would instill these values and compel our child to be the best person he can. I found Ivey League, enrolled our son about six months ago and truly believe that search is over! Master Danny Ives and Coach Teresa Russin have exceeded my expectations in every way possible! I can't even begin to express how thankful I am for the values and expertise they're passing on to my son and the care in which they do so; I would strongly recommend Ivey League to anyone!! read more

I generally don't take the time to write reviews for businesses but I felt the staff and owners of Ivey League MMA deserved to hear and see my thoughts. We have been a part of their program going on 3 years. Originally we signed up our son to gain confidence and self discipline. We couldn't be happier with the way he has developed. The entire staff has always been attentive to our needs and requests as well as always looking out for our son's best interest. The registration process is easy and they sit down and explain their contract requirements up front so we have a chance to discuss it as a family before we commit. The entire Ivey League staff are professional, courteous and provide the best care and instruction. I highly recommend Ivey league MMA for the whole family. read more

I have known Danny Ives for over 9 years...he has been a teacher , and my friend trough all this time. Currently I am a competitive Brown Belt in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and part of the reason is because since I was a white belt Danny Ives motivated me to go for the highest standards in the sport. Danny is great at motivating people to do amazing things for themselves. When I was a blue belt I became Panamerican Champion....I did this thanks to Danny who helped by lending me the money and also trained with me as a white belt the late hours of the night whenever I bothered him. Great teacher! Great heart...don't miss the opportunity to train with such a person! read more

Its easy to explain why I love Ivey League so much. The techniques and classes are the best and make exercising fun and learning martial arts enjoyable. I've been training here for almost 4 years and I plan to continue for as long as possible. Learning martial arts in a positive environment has really boosted my confidence outsideof the training room too. I think a big benefit of Ivey League is the atmosphere. Most importantly though are the great people, both the staff and students. Come try it out and like me, it'll be one of the best decisions you'll make! read more

This place is like a second home to me. I've been training at Ivey League MMA for almost a year and I've seen myself transform into an athlete that I never thought I could be. I'm in the best shape of my life, I am competing in competitions on a regular basis, and I now have goals of competing at the highest level possible. The staff and students are amazing and are a great support system. I highly encourage any adult or child, looking for a great gym to strengthen themselves physically and mentally, to enroll at Ivey League Mixed Martial Arts. read more

I have been Training at Ivey League Mixed Martial Arts for about 6 months now, Since joining I have seen significant weight loss increased energy. The great part about this gym is they have a class for everyone regardless of age, sex, weight or even skill level. The owner has done an awesome job creating a family environment where you learn, sweat and train while having a great time. I recommend this gym to anyone who is looking to get in shape, and is interested in learning high level Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu jitsu. read more

I have been training with Danny for ten years now and I cannot thank him enough for bringing my jiu jitsu to the next level! Now that I have my own school I try to bring my students down to him or have him come up for seminars as much as possible. I can't believe the transformation I see in his students every time I go down there, it is amazing. Danny and his staff are great with the kids and they are very inviting! If you are looking for a great place to train, you found it at Ivey League MMA! read more

Great place to train for kids and adults. I have trained with many different jiu jitsu and martial arts coaches throughout my years, and Danny is by far one of the best. His style of teaching is effective and technical without over complicating things. I would definitely enroll my kids in his youth program if the school were closer, but I still personally make the effort to visit him every once in a while to get on the mat and learn from him and his team. Highly recommend Ivey League MMA! read more

This academy is outstanding. Top tier instructors combined with a state of the art facility make this the finest MMA training you can get in the Maryland area. Everyone is super friendly and so nice. It's very much a family-like atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome. At first it was just me taking boot camp classes and now both my husband and son are training at Ivy League. It turned into a family affair! Do yourself a favor and check this place out. read more

I came into Ivey League MMA looking for a new hobby and instead I've found a new lifestyle. The atmosphere is amazing with great instruction. Another really good part of Ivey League MMA that speaks volumes about its staff is the kids program. The coaches treat EVERYONE with equal respect and care. Every chance I get I tell people about our training and how the coaches at Ivey League MMA can help them. If I could give a higher score than 5 stars, I would. read more