Owners: Derrick Kennington
Martial Art: BJJ, MMA, Boxing, Muay Thai
How did you choose your school name?
We chose our name The Next Element Academy after all the different elements. Earth, Water, Wind, and Fire.
The Next Element is all of those combined. The Next Element Academy wants you to be strong like a mountain, rooted in the earth. Smooth as water that flows through the river. As powerful as the wind, with the ability to overcome strength by using movement and technique. Have a fire inside that burns with the desire to demolish any goal in the way. The whole martial artist is the Next Element.
How long have you been teaching?
10 years.
Who or what inspires you?
I’m inspired to help each one of my students be a better version of themselves in every way possible. In fitness, martial arts, or life.
What is something special or unique about your school and/or students?
We are a Family. Everyone is so inviting to others, our hospitality is unmatched. It could be a professional MMA fighter or Amateur fighter, everyone is treated the same with the same goal in mind for everyone. Be the best you can be.
What made you choose FUJI Mats for your facility?
FUJI is of the best quality and best customer service hands down. Extremely easy to work with and very helpful.
What is the most rewarding part about working in the martial arts field?
We get to do what we love every day!
If you could give one piece of advice to other martial art school owners what would it be?
Be friendly, be inviting, be clean, uphold the highest standards in all situations.
ABOUT THE SCHOOL:
Our Academy is a friendly and inviting facility where our motivation is to excel past the standard. We are located in the heart of Myrtle Beach, SC where the academy is owned and Operated by BJJ Black Belt Derrick Kennington. Professor Kennington is a Black Belt under UFC veteran Kurt Pellegrino, with over 20 Professional MMA bouts.
The Next Element Academy strives to uphold high standards in all things we do - cleanliness, technique, or Team effort.
