West Karate & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Our School

West Karate & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a Weirton martial arts academy with everything available to students. Alongside Karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes, we also offer training in other disciplines, including Kickboxing, that can help you with whatever you need. Our instructors bring in a strong family atmosphere and are always keeping students motivated. The structured curriculum and culture allows for an educational environment. We make sure students are learning and receiving training that matches their personal goals. Whether that’s helping adults with fitness or helping kids with personal development and behaving properly, anyone can grow with us. All of this comes from the legacy of Master Clarence E. West, a man we are proud to honor. Check out our history section for his story and see why we take so much pride in helping people.

Our Story

Our school was formed in the wake of a profound loss—the passing of our founder, Grandmaster Clarence E. West. In November of 2008, Master West tragically and unexpectedly lost his life in a fire that consumed our Karate school in Wintersville, Ohio. His passing sent shockwaves through his students and the greater community, leaving a void that could never be filled.

Grandmaster West was a beloved teacher, mentor, and respected businessman. He was widely known for his unwavering generosity, self-discipline, and larger-than-life personality. Many remember him for his signature colorful tuxedos and fedoras, but even more for the lasting impact he had on countless lives both on and off the mat.

In honor of his tremendous influence, we proudly continue his legacy by carrying on his martial arts system, Wae Kune Do. Our school is dedicated to the preservation, teaching, and advancement of Wae Kune Do exactly as it was originated by our Sensei. Through discipline, respect, and community, we strive every day to uphold the values and standards Master West instilled in us.

We carry on the legacy—one student at a time!

Little Technicians (ages 5 and 6)

Few martial arts academies have a program for kids like our Little Technicians. It is a rolling program with a different focus every month. Students are taught skills in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Karate (as well as Boxing and Wrestling), helping them find which program is best for them. Once they reach 7 years old, we let them pick and choose the program where they want to devote their time.

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (ages 7–13)

This is a program focused heavily on personal growth. Kids gain a sense of confidence while building discipline, self-awareness, self-respect, balance, and overall structure. The tools we teach give them a solid foundation to achieve their personal goals on and off the mat.

Teen and Adult Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (ages 14+)

Our teen and adult program provides students with the opportunity to train in Gi or No-Gi classes. It is an enjoyable experience where students can work on training for fitness, self-defense, or competition. Teens and adults can come in and discover all the benefits Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has to offer.

Karate

Our Karate program is all about self-discovery. Every day, we are pushing students to dig deep inside themselves to release their natural abilities and talents. Oftentimes, students come in unaware of what they are truly capable of doing. We make sure to show them how great they can be, and that’s not just on the mat—they can be great in all aspects of life! The skills they gain alongside the self-respect and confidence they develop can impact everyday life, as well as Karate classes.

Kickboxing

This is a martial art class with a diverse set of skills. Students are taught multiple disciplines, focusing mainly on MMA and Muay Thai. This provides a solid foundation for fighters to take to the mat or into the cage. Competitive fighters can really thrive with this program!