Developing confidence in grapplers since 2012

Our mission is to build confidence, commitment, and community. For more than 13 years, we’ve helped over 100 beginners become state champions. Members of all ages have discovered the benefits of wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and fitness. Our family-friendly culture makes training fun and welcoming—many of our members train alongside parents, siblings, and friends. Whether your goal is to get in shape, learn self-defense, or compete at the highest level, CORE is the place to start your journey!

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Programs

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Schedules

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Memberships

the CORE advantage

At CORE Combat Academies, we maintain high standards in everything we do. Our values shape a training environment that is structured, supportive, and inclusive. Every student becomes part of a team committed to consistent growth and long-term success.

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our coaches

Led by Stan Banks, a 2X NCAA All-American and ACC Champion, our coaching staff brings decades of high-level experience in wrestling, jiu-jitsu, judo, and fitness. With backgrounds ranging from college competition to certified personal training, our coaches have developed over 100 state champions while keeping a family-friendly, beginner-focused approach. Passionate, qualified, and committed to your growth—we’re here to help you build confidence from day one.

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our facility

Our new 5,000 sq. ft. grappling facility is conveniently located in South West Charlotte, right off I-77. It was designed for athletes and families alike. With 2½ full wrestling mats, fully equipped weight racks, and pull-up bars, we provide everything you need to train at the highest level. Parents can relax in our spacious lobby with a viewing window, while kids enjoy a safe after-school space. Clean restrooms, family-friendly design, and on-site supplements & gear make CORE more than a gym—it’s your training home.

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Community impact

We’re more than a gym...We’re a Tribe. In our family-friendly environment, beginners and experienced grapplers build confidence, resilience, lifelong experiences and friendships. We break down barriers to training with Discount Memberships and Transportation via our Team Van. Our Tribe Culture extends into our youth with our After School Program and Sylvia A. Banks College Scholarship. Together, we ensure a culture where every member has a place to belong.

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Value pricing

We offer the most value of any grappling club in the area - No contracts, no hidden fees, just unlimited training. Our Unlimited Membership provides access to 60+ practices every month in wrestling, jiu-jitsu, striking and strength, FREE coaching at local tournaments and FREE Sunday open mats. More training. More support. More value for you and your family.

the CORE story

Where we started. Where we are. Where we're going. 

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Testimonials

Danielle Stallings

Thanks, Coach! Holden’s transformation physically, socially, and emotionally has been amazing. He’s seeing where hard work, goal setting, and determination can take him…all great life skills.

John

I don't know what sort of brainwahsing you guys did with my son this off season, but he was an animal this weekend. I just got to sit back and enjoy wrestling. Really think the difference was the individual sessions and mindset stuff. Well done!

Carrignton

I'd like to give a shout out to CORE Wrestling for their work with boys and girls in our community. I've seen children learn about the importance of hard work, determination, and overcoming adversity. I've seen kids gain self-confidence that wasn't there when they walked through the door that morning. This team is changing and bringing together our community one child at a time!"

Sara

Core Wrestling has been nothing but a positive impact on our family and so many others. So proud of Braxton and Cole. We couldn’t have a better team of mentors than Stan Banks Jr and his team at Core Wrestling! Can’t put a value on that!

D'Andre

Thank you so much to everyone at CORE! I really appreciate you guys allowing me to train and use your facilities. I know it's just a part of your mission, but it's so much more to me. I feel that all of the CORE Coaches are the reason I became a Division 1 NCAA Wrestler. The mold and mentality at CORE helped me a lot. Additionally, the CORE Values, posted on the walls, gave me a standard to keep myself in check. So, thank you so much to all the CORE Coaches and members who helped me. I really appreciate it!

Charles

I really appreciate it Stan. All of the work you and the team put into making Core a culture of hard work and gratitude is amazing. It really is a gift from God to the community and for me personally. I've grown so much over the past 5 months thanks to you guys. You and all of the coaches are authentic stand up people. I am sincerely grateful more than I can express to have met and be able to learn from such wonderful humans. God bless you and Core!