I am first and foremost a follower of Jesus Christ, without Him this dream couldn't happen. I am a father of 4 young men and a husband to a beautiful, loving, and supportive wife.

My position as father and husband was the driving force behind creating the Bender Academy of Self Defense. As society becomes more dangerous by the day, the attacks are shifting away from predominantly men, to now including women and children as well. Being Christian increases the threats even more.

I have been blessed to train with some of the best instructors and compete against highly skilled martial artists and believe that the information I have gained can and will save lives. These skills are used by the U.S. military, law enforcement, and professional athletes and it has been proven to not only save the "good guy" but also minimize injury of the "bad guy". It is a controlled, merciful, intelligent approach to self defense that gets you home safely and keeps you from being placed in handcuffs due to avoidable injuries.

The academy stands as a symbol of hope and love to all who enter. Other schools focus on competition and medals, but we focus on a growing community within our walls with the belief of fellowship that pours into the community.

We aim to instill strength, confidence, self control, safety and self-respect to all students so that they are able to flourish both in training and in life.

God Bless you, and I hope to see you soon!

Experience and Expertise

• First Degree Black Belt - Gracie Jiu-Jitsu (Pedro Sauer Association)

• Certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Instructor

• County and Fedeal Law Enforcement Experience

• Certified Self Defense Instructor for the D.O.J.

• NFPT Certified Personal Trainer

• AKC Certified Kettle Bell Instructor

• Previous Rocktagon Professional Series Welterweight Champion

• Owner of Heavenly Active Response Ministries

• Certified CPR/BLS Instructor

Meet your Instructor

Micah Bender, Owner & Lead Instructor