New England Ninjutsu
About
New England Ninjutsu in Hartford offers training in MMA and Judo disciplines under the guidance of highly qualified instructors. Head Instructor Greg Kowalski holds a Black Belt in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu and trained directly with Grandmaster Hatsumi in Japan, while other instructors like Chris Sullivan, Steve Suchy, and Peter Carbutti bring additional expertise including Aikido and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu credentials. The school provides youth classes and maintains small class sizes to ensure personalized attention during training sessions.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the great instructors and patient teaching style that accommodates both beginners and experienced practitioners. Reviewers highlight the real-world applicability of techniques and the value of small class sizes that ensure personalized attention during training. Specific instructors like Greg Kowalski receive special mention for their seminars, though some note his seasonal availability. Long-term members describe it as the best martial arts school they've attended, emphasizing the combination of effective training, knowledgeable coaching, and enjoyable atmosphere that keeps them returning for years.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
r v
2 years ago
Great instructors and Great people . Highly recommended to beginners and veterans alike. I wish there was a sixth star to click .
Zefold
2 years ago
I have been going here since i was 12 and it has definitely been the best martial arts school I have ever attended - Connor Purcell
Jose Oquendo
2 years ago
Great teachers trained by the best. They have valuable knowledge regarding real world applications.
Jesse Szymansky
2 years ago
Started training here ~8 years ago and I’ve been coming ever since. I came in knowing very little, and quickly realized how little I actually knew, which kept me coming back. Small class sizes ensure you’re getting the proper attention from any of the three great teachers on any given night; in an art that requires repetitions, this means everything! Though it is Sensai Greg Kowalski’s school, he is unfortunately only in the area seasonally. But if you want to see this art demonstrated to its fullest, his seminars are well worth the wait!
Rae Caldwell
2 years ago
I have been going here for years, the teachers are patient and knowledgeable with real world experience. We also have fun!
scheduleHours
Monday: 7:30 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 7:30 – 9:00 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Greg Kowalski
Head Instructor
Black Belt (Dan ranking in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu), trained directly with Grandmaster Hatsumi in Japan
Head instructor since 1989. Began training in Budo Taijutsu (Ninjutsu) in 1981 under Stephen K Hayes. Lived and trained extensively in Japan with Grandmaster Hatsumi. Also trained in Aikido, Tae Kwon Do, and Washin Ryu Karate.
Chris Sullivan
Instructor
5th Dan (Godan) in Budo Taijutsu
Fifth degree black belt under Greg Kowalski. Began training at NEN in 2002. Prior background in Tae Kwon Do and Kenpo. Also trains in Toyama Ryu Iaido since 2005.
Steve Suchy
Instructor
5th Dan (Godan) in Budo Taijutsu, 4th degree Black Belt in Aikido
Fifth degree black belt under Greg Kowalski. Began training at NEN in 1990. Former police officer and SWAT team member with extensive defensive tactics training background. 12 years Karate, 16 years Aikido.
Peter Carbutti
Instructor (Youth Classes)
4th Dan (Yondan) in Budo Taijutsu, Black Belt in BJJ under Brad Wolfson
Fourth degree black belt under Greg Kowalski. Began training at NEN in 1993. Trained in Japan in 1995. Also trains and competes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Soulcraft BJJ. Has instructed youth classes since 2000.