Meet Your Senseis
Guided by decades of martial arts mastery and a deep commitment to family values, Sensei Carissa and Sensei Neil bring world-class instruction to every student who walks through our doors.
Chief Instructor
Sensei Carissa Morris
With over 18 years of dedicated Kenpo study and 12 years of passionate teaching, Sensei Carissa is the heart and soul of Ohana Martial Arts Academy. Her unique combination of martial arts mastery, emergency medical training, and early childhood education gives her an extraordinary ability to connect with students of every age and background.
As a woman leading a martial arts academy, Sensei Carissa brings a perspective that is both powerful and nurturing. She has dedicated her career to creating a space where every student feels safe, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Credentials & Ranks
4th Degree Black Belt
International Kenpo
4th Degree Black Belt
Goshinjitsu
5th Degree Black Belt
Kamishin Ryu Jujitsu
18+ Years
Studying Kenpo
12 Years
Teaching
EMT Training
Emergency Medical
ECE Background
Early Childhood Ed.
Sensei Neil Morris
With an extraordinary 35+ years of martial arts experience spanning multiple disciplines, Sensei Neil is one of the most seasoned martial artists in Colorado. His deep understanding of traditional martial arts principles, combined with decades of real-world training, brings a level of expertise to every class that simply cannot be found elsewhere.
Sensei Neil's journey through martial arts began over three decades ago, leading him through the rigorous study of International Kenpo, Kamishin Ryu Jujitsu, and the Korean art of Hwa Rang Do. This diverse background gives him a comprehensive understanding of combat arts and self-defense that enriches every lesson he teaches.
Credentials & Ranks
3rd Degree Black Belt
International Kenpo
5th Degree Black Belt
Kamishin Ryu Jujitsu
Trained in Hwa Rang Do
Korean Martial Art
35+ Years
Martial Arts
3 Disciplines
Multi-Style Mastery
Traditional Arts
Deep Knowledge
Patient Mentor
Every Student Matters
Instructor
A Legacy of Excellence
Together, Sensei Carissa and Sensei Neil bring an unmatched depth of knowledge and experience to Ohana Martial Arts Academy.
53+
Years Combined Experience
6
Black Belt Rankings
4
Martial Arts Disciplines
4.9
Star Rating
More Than Instructors. Family.
Sensei Carissa and Sensei Neil aren't just business partners and co-instructors—they are married with four daughters and one granddaughter, all active in martial arts. Their family literally lives and breathes the martial arts lifestyle, and that authenticity shines through in every class they teach.
The name “Ohana” means family in Hawaiian, and it was chosen with deep intention. When Carissa and Neil founded the academy, they envisioned a place where every student would feel the same warmth, support, and encouragement they give their own children. That vision has become a reality that families throughout Carbon Valley have come to cherish.
Their daughters have grown up on the mat—training alongside students, assisting in classes, and demonstrating that martial arts is truly a family endeavor. When your child trains at Ohana, they see firsthand what dedication looks like across generations.
“Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.”
This isn't just a motto—it's the guiding principle behind every decision we make at Ohana Martial Arts Academy. Every student who walks through our doors becomes part of our extended family.
Proudly Women-Owned
Ohana Martial Arts Academy is a women-owned business, led by Sensei Carissa Morris. We believe in empowering students of all genders and backgrounds.
Our Teaching Philosophy
Every class is guided by these core principles that define the Ohana experience.
Ohana Spirit
Every student is treated like family. We celebrate victories together, support each other through challenges, and create bonds that last a lifetime.
Individual Growth
We meet every student where they are. Whether your child is shy or energetic, a beginner or advanced, our instruction adapts to bring out their best.
Character First
Techniques come and go, but character endures. We teach respect, discipline, integrity, and courage in every class alongside martial arts skills.
Lifelong Learning
With over 53 years of combined experience, Sensei Carissa and Sensei Neil are still students themselves - always learning, always growing, always improving.
Joyful Training
Learning martial arts should be exciting and fun. We create an environment where students look forward to every class and leave with smiles on their faces.
Safe & Inclusive
Our academy is proudly LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space. Everyone is welcome in our Ohana regardless of background, identity, or ability.
“We don't just teach martial arts techniques—we build confident, disciplined, respectful young people who are ready to succeed in everything life throws at them.”
— Sensei Carissa & Sensei Neil Morris
Train With the Best
Experience what it's like to train under expert black belt instructors who truly care about your growth. Schedule your free trial class and become part of the Ohana family today.
No contracts required -- Month-to-month memberships -- Family discounts available
Ready to Join the Ohana Family?
Start your martial arts journey today with a free trial class. Experience the Ohana difference — where every student is family.
No credit card required • No contracts • Family & First Responder discounts