Although I do not live in the N.Y. area, Steven Koepfer and New York Combat Sambo are reason enough to consider relocation. In the few short years that I have dealt with Mr. Koepfer, he has shown himself to be a dedicated ambassador of both the sport of Sambo, and martial arts in general. He has been awarded the Master of Sport achievement for his technical understanding and ability, and as the US Team Coach for the 2008 FIAS World Sambo Championships, Steve has proved that he is a world class coach and mentor that consistently produces champions in Combat/Sport/Freestyle Sambo, submission grappling, and MMA.
As a martial artist of almost 30 years now, it is a rare honor find a gym of such high standard. Trust me!
I would strongly recommend to anyone seeking a top rate school in the New York area, to keep driving until you reach the address of New York Combat Sambo. You can learn from them, or compete against them…..

Classes in grappling, takedowns, striking, and Muay Thai clinch are all awesome. Steve, Miguel, and Evelyn are friendly and supportive to newcomers. Most of the people at the gym, though, seem like they’ve been around MMA for a while and they seem very devoted as well. Basically everybody who goes here loves this place. Also it’s pretty affordable.