Reviews

Craig Joyner (Master Joyner), has been impacting our family for 25 years. As "Sensei Craig" he taught both our son and daughter for over a decade - 25 years ago. Now as "Master Joyner" he is teaching our grandson. Watching his lesson this morning compelled me to write this. Craig Joyner is a man of utmost character, heart, and integrity. He has been Teacher, Mentor, and friend to our family and has made an impact on the lives of our kids like few others. There is none better! We recommend him in the highest. Thank you Master Joyner.

This is an amazing karate studio!

Excellent marial arts training, including the discipline necessary to become a great person. Our 12 year old has been with USSD Encinitas for 7 years. Master Joyner and Mr. Bill are excellent instructors who are personally invested in every student. The character building they have performed on our son has been amazing. It is obvious that they care more about him as a person in total, than just a martial arts student. Master Joyner has been an excellent role model (he walks the talk). He has also been a great partner in parenting for us, helping us improve discipline and personal accountability. He sets high expectations, but gives the students all the tools to meet them. I wish there were more people in the world like the genuine, kind, accountable staff at USSD Encinitas!

My Son has been in this program for roughly 4 yrs. I was very apprehensive on signing him up, because I know there are a lot of "belt factories" in the area. Therefore, if you want a blackbelt quick, this isn't the place for you. Having said that, Master Joyner (Craig) and Mr. Bill are incredible instructors!! My Son truly loves them both, and it is evident that the instructors feel the same about their students. And it's not all about martial arts, self respect and respect for others are taught, as well as work ethic, honor and integrity. We absolutely love this place, and if I could give it more than 5 stars, I would!

Master Joyner and his team are no ordinary karate studio! They develop the whole child - they focus on mental toughness and discipline and respect vs outward strength. When my son sassed me he made him drop and give 20 (pushups)! He loves kids and his passion is inspiring. I know families who train together with them. This is THE karate studio. Focus on development vs persistent belt charges and promotion.

I am a black belt who has been training with Master Joyner at USSD Encinitas for over 17 years. If you think that suggests a biased review, let me explain. I have actually trained with USSD since 1998 and have experienced the style and discipline of 4 other instructors, including another Master instructor at another USSD studio in the last few weeks. I am a Physician by profession and can easily discern personal as well as professional skills and comportment. Master Joyner masters both. His group classes are rigorous....but karate is not meant to be easy. Considering he is a 5th degree black belt, with rare exceptions, Master Joyner is always the instructor in his group and private classes, very unusual in this industry. He also works really well with children of all ages. If you have any desire to do martial arts or to simply help your child with discipline and structure, I highly recommend this skilled and compassionate instructor at USDD Encinitas!