About School of Combat Arts

School of Combat Arts is a highly accomplished Martial Arts school located in Florida's beautiful Emerald Coast. We take pride in our students success through the improvement of thier lives. Our students are dedicated to getting in better shape, improving themselves mentally, and having fun in our classes.

We have classes for all fitness levels, ages, and skill levels. You will be pushed to achieve the goals you desire. We want to change and improve your life. The school also caters to professional athletes and competitors.

We have had students who have competed in the highest level in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, and MMA. We pride ourselves in having instructors that have been involved in teaching martial arts to beginners and professionals. Our goal is to use martial arts training to build people into better people, come join us.

OUR TRIBE, ONE VIBE

From top level professional MMA fighters to elementary school children to middle aged professionals and the stay at home moms all are welcome to join our Tribe. At School of Combat Arts we want real training with real results and real people. Every program in our innovative curriculum is designed to build skills and help people to improve their health and wellness. 

Our Instructors 

Professor Michael Gioe – Martial Arts Expert & Self-Defense Specialist

With over 35 years of experience in martial arts, Professor Michael Gioe is a highly accomplished and well-rounded martial artist dedicated to self-defense and real-world application. Holding a 3rd-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he has honed his skills in one of the most effective grappling arts in the world. His expertise extends beyond BJJ, having trained extensively in Russian Sambo and Catch-as-Catch-Can wrestling, giving him a deep understanding of takedowns, submissions, and control in any situation.

Professor Gioe is also an instructor-level expert in Muay Thai kickboxing, blending devastating striking with clinch work and footwork, making him a formidable stand-up fighter. Instructor Level in Modern Urban Combatives. Additionally, he holds a 2nd-degree black belt in Bujinkan Ninjutsu, incorporating traditional Japanese warrior tactics into his already diverse skill set.

Beyond his martial arts credentials, Professor Gioe serves in law enforcement with the Department of Corrections, where his deep understanding of combat, control, and de-escalation techniques is applied daily. His focus is real-world self-defense, ensuring that his students—whether civilians, law enforcement, or military—are prepared for unpredictable situations.

A lifelong student of martial arts, he continuously studies and reads about fighting systems from around the world, constantly refining his approach. His passion for teaching is unmatched, and he is committed to empowering others with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves. Professor Gioe is more than just an instructor—he is a mentor, a protector, and a warrior dedicated to sharing the true essence of martial arts with those who seek it.

He founded School of Combat Arts. in 2011 in Wilkes Barre, PA. In June of 2014 he relocated to Niceville, Fl. In his personal life, he has 4 children. 

Mike Gioe creates an enviroment of learning that extends in every direction and even beyond the doors of his school. Through the school of combat arts I have made some of best friends I will ever have. Mike created a place where you can grow stronger mentally and physically...

    -Tom R.( FACEBOOK)

Prof. Aran Middleton: Black Belt Instructor

 

We are proud to introduce Aran Middleton, the newest black belt instructor at School of Combat Arts.  With a deep passion for martial arts and years of rigorous training, Aran embodies the discipline, skill, and dedication that define a true martial artist.

Aran Middleton's journey in martial arts began at a young age, fueled by a love for the art and a commitment to excellence. Over the years, Aran has trained under some of the most respected masters in the field, honing skills that have led to the achievement of a black belt—a symbol of mastery and perseverance.

As an instructor, Aran brings a unique blend of technical expertise, practical experience, and a teaching style that is both encouraging and challenging. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced student, Aran is dedicated to helping you reach your full potential.

Why Train with Aran Middleton?

Comprehensive Knowledge: Aran’s extensive knowledge covers a wide range of techniques, from fundamental movements to advanced strategies.

Personalized Approach:Understanding that each student has unique strengths and goals, Aran tailors lessons to meet individual needs.

Inspiring Leadership:Aran’s passion for martial arts is infectious, motivating students to push beyond their limits and achieve their best.

Commitment to Excellence:With a strong focus on discipline and continuous improvement, Aran ensures that every student receives top-tier instruction.

Real-World Application: Aran emphasizes the practical application of techniques, preparing students for both competition and self-defense.

Join Aran Middleton’s Classes Today

 

Whether you’re looking to improve your skills, gain confidence, or achieve your black belt, Aran Middleton is here to guide you every step of the way. With Aran’s expert instruction, you’ll not only learn martial arts—you’ll live it.

 

Start your journey with Aran Middleton today and experience the art of martial mastery.

 Maestro Josh Scott

 

Josh Scott is the lead instructor for the Eskrima class at the School of Combat Arts. With years of experience in Filipino Martial Arts, he brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to his students. Josh is a dedicated practitioner of DeRobio Eskrima, focusing on its practical applications for self-defense and combat efficiency.

 

In addition to his expertise in Eskrima, Josh is a Full Instructor under Paul Vunak, certified to teach Rapid Assault Tactics (RAT) and Jeet Kune Do—a testament to his deep understanding of functional, real-world combat strategies. His training emphasizes adaptability, speed, and efficiency, making his classes highly effective for self-defense and tactical application.

 

Josh is passionate about sharing his knowledge and helping students develop their own combat skills. Whether you're looking to sharpen your weapons training, improve your striking and grappling integration, or gain a deeper understanding of street-effective martial arts, his instruction provides a well-rounded and practical approach to self-defense.

 

 

Our Services

Confidence & Self Defense

There are a wealth of benefits that come from healthy self confidence from helping you manage fears and maintain a positive mental attitude. Train with us and you'll discover there is no better way to build your confidence then martial arts.

Discipline & Self Control

With Self Descipline comes all kids of beneficial improvements to your life including advanced focus, new found respect, better health & fitness along with having an easier time at work or school. The bedrock of Martial Arts is founded on teaching discipline and self control to its students.

 New Friends and Mentors

Our Team is dedicated to your success. Whether that means pushing you to your limits, being a friend in a time of need or spending extra time to show you a new technique your struggling with, our community is here to make you feel comfortable and safe while having fun and learning effective techniques.

Contact us 

Today!!

School of Combat Arts

112 Wise Ave. Unit#9

Niceville Fl, 32578

PH:570-468-9701 

Come train with us!!

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