About
Philadelphia Martial Arts Academy
Philadelphia Martial Arts Academy (PMAA) is a family martial arts school at 38 Jackson Street in
South Philadelphia, teaching karate and Tang Soo Do to kids, teens, and adults.
Our mission
At Philadelphia Martial Arts Academy, our mission goes far beyond teaching kicks and punches: we build confident, disciplined, and respectful leaders through structured martial arts training. We believe martial arts is one of the most powerful tools for shaping mindset, building resilience, and developing character that lasts a lifetime.
What we teach
Traditional karate and Tang Soo Do, with age-appropriate self-defense:
• Little Dragons: ages 4–6
• Youth Martial Arts: ages 7–12 (Beginner and Advanced)
• Teen & Adult Martial Arts: ages 13+
• Karate Conditioning: a martial arts workout for teens and adults, with no uniforms or belt tests
Meet Louie Castelli Jr.
For Louie Castelli Jr., martial arts has always been more than just a sport. It’s been a lifelong passion, a family tradition, and a major part of the person he is today.
Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Louie began training in the art of Tang Soo Do at just 3½ years old under the guidance of his father, who owned and operated martial arts schools throughout Louie’s childhood. Growing up in that environment, Louie experienced firsthand how martial arts could help build confidence, discipline, respect, and leadership both on and off the mat.
By his teenage years, Louie was already helping instruct classes and lead youth programs. Over the years, he continued developing his skills, competing at both regional and world levels, earning numerous championship titles, and achieving the rank of 3rd-degree black belt.
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But beyond the competitions, trophies, and accomplishments, what has always stayed with Louie are the life lessons martial arts taught him and the positive impact it had on his life.
As a father raising his own children in South Philadelphia, Louie wanted to create a place where the next generation could experience those same opportunities. That vision led to the opening of Philadelphia Martial Arts Academy.
For Louie, PMAA is about much more than teaching kicks, punches, and forms. It’s about building a welcoming, supportive environment where students of all ages can challenge themselves, celebrate their progress, and develop skills that will benefit them long after they leave the mat.
His goal is simple: to make a positive impact on every student who walks through the doors and help them become the best version of themselves.
Our school in South Philly
Our training space is at 38 Jackson St, Ste 2A, in South Philadelphia, close to Pennsport and Whitman. Our entrance is at 38 Jackson St; Ste 2A is up the stairs. Parents are welcome to watch class from our viewing area. We opened our doors on July 15, 2026.
Hours: Mon & Wed 12–8 PM · Tue & Thu 12–8:15 PM · Fri 12–6 PM ·
Sat 9 AM–12 PM · Sun closed · 215-980-6520
