NC Budo’s wildly popular summer camp program combines expert martial arts instruction with exciting field trips, themed weekly activities, and a focus on holistic child development. Founded in 2016 by Sensei Michael Baez and Sensei Jena Hare, the camp specializes in Classical Okinawan Kempo Karate and serves children ages 3-12 with separate programming for younger (3-5 years) and junior (6-12 years) participants. Each week features a different theme that keeps the experience fresh and engaging, NC Budo’s wildly popular summer camp program combines expert martial arts instruction with exciting field trips, themed weekly activities, and a focus on holistic child development. Founded in 2016 by Sensei Michael Baez and Sensei Jena Hare, the camp specializes in Classical Okinawan Kempo Karate and serves children ages 3-12 with separate programming for younger (3-5 years) and junior (6-12 years) participants. Each week features a different theme that keeps the experience fresh and engaging, while expert instructors guide campers through martial arts training, sparring, kata forms, and weapons training in a supportive environment.\n\nBeyond martial arts, NC Budo integrates wellness and personal development into every camp day. Campers participate in yoga, mindfulness exercises, and self-defense training alongside their martial arts instruction. The camp’s philosophy emphasizes mental discipline, emotional stability, and physical conditioning—values that extend far beyond the dojo. Field trips to special locations provide real-world experiences and break up the week with adventure and exploration.\n\nWith flexible weekly sessions running from late May through early August, NC Budo offers parents convenient scheduling options. The camp operates Monday through Friday with flexible drop-off (7:00-9:00 a.m.) and pick-up (4:00-6:00 p.m.) windows, making it easy to fit into family schedules. Snacks are included, and the program welcomes both beginners and experienced martial artists, offering personalized instruction that meets each child where they are in their martial arts journey.
Key Highlights
Classical Okinawan Kempo Karate instruction from experienced senseis
Weekly themed activities combined with field trips to special locations
Holistic approach integrating martial arts, wellness, mindfulness, and personal development
Special Features
Different theme every week
Expert instruction from experienced senseis
Field trips to special locations
Separate age-appropriate classes (3-5 years and 6-12 years)
Snacks included
Flexible drop-off and pick-up windows
Focus on mental discipline, emotional stability, and physical conditioning
Personalized instruction approach
Transportation available from Gastonia schools to Belmont location
Activities
karateOkinawan Kempo Karatesparringkata formsweapons trainingself defenseconditioningyogamindfulnessfield tripsthemed weekly activitiescompetition team training
Parent Considerations
No counselor ratio information provided – parents should inquire about staff-to-camper ratios
No special requirements listed – parents should confirm if any prerequisites or skill levels are needed
No rating or reviews available – parents may want to request references or testimonials
Varies by session; Early Bird Special: $50 off/week (Cyber Monday registration for full summer). Standard pricing varies based on desired session with $50 deposit per week, balance due the week before camp
Location:
174 W Main Ave, Gastonia, NC 28052
Schedule:
Late May through early August, 11 weekly sessions (May 26-Aug 8). Monday-Friday, Drop-off 7:00-9:00 a.m., Pick-up 4:00-6:00 p.m.