What people are saying about Sifu Dane Griffith

Four years ago, I walked onto the mat as a brand new student, hesitant and barely able to throw a punch. I walk now as a confident and skilled martial artist Sifu Dane helped build from the ground up.

He doesn’t hand out rank or praise easily, and that’s exactly the point. He expects you to actually understand the system of Shaolin Wing Chun: apply it under pressure, think for yourself, teach what you know, and live the principles behind the moves. Every sash I’ve earned under him, I’ve earned through hard work and time committed to practicing.

What makes Sifu Dane different isn’t just what he knows, it’s how closely he pays attention. He sees what each student needs, what the curriculum says, and he teaches to both. Technical mastery, real patience, sharp humor, and a level of humility you don’t often find in someone this skilled. He’s building better martial artists. He’s building better people.

And distance hasn’t changed any of that. Even after his move to Texas from Kentucky, he’s stayed just as invested with his students here through calls, continued instruction, and with real mentorship that never let up just because the miles got longer.

Fort Worth doesn’t know how lucky it is yet. If you train under Sifu Dane, you’re not signing up for a class. You’re signing up for someone who will push you past what you thought you were capable of, and who will actually be in your corner while you get there. If you put your all into it, you will get his all in return.

I’m endlessly grateful to call him my Sifu, forever and always.

I don't think I can say enough good things about Blue Lantern. Sifu Dane is incredibly knowledgeable and but also passionate about the art of Shaolin Wing Chun and teaching it. He is authentic and kind.
The school is nice and the people are welcoming. Everyone is friendly and encouraging. Its nice how many people are happy and willing to help.
We train, but also have a good time. Hard things aren't as bad with a good sense of humor and a smile.

I cannot speak highly enough about Sifu Dane's Blue Lantern Shaolin Wing Chun school in Elsmere, Kentucky. Located just a short drive from Cincinnati, this Kwoon is a hidden gem for anyone passionate about martial arts, self-improvement, and the art of Shaolin Wing Chun. I’ve had the privilege of training here a few times, as well as spending time with Sifu Dane and his students in other cities, and every experience has been nothing short of exceptional.

From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed with open arms and made to feel like part of the family. The sense of community at this school is truly special. Sifu Dane and his students are not only skilled martial artists but also incredibly kind, patient, and supportive. They genuinely care about helping others grow, both in their martial arts journey and in their personal development.

The training environment is top-notch, with everything you need to dive deep into Shaolin Wing Chun and Qi Gong. Sifu Dane’s expertise and teaching style are unparalleled—he has a unique ability to break down complex techniques into understandable concepts while maintaining the depth and tradition of the art. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, you’ll find value in every session.

What sets this school apart is its emphasis on holistic growth. Sifu Dane and his students are deeply committed to improving themselves internally and externally, and this philosophy shines through in every aspect of the training.

If you’re serious about martial arts and want to train in a supportive, authentic, and inspiring environment, I wholeheartedly recommend Sifu Dane's Blue Lantern Shaolin Wing Chun school. It’s more than just a place to train—it’s a place to grow, connect, and become the best version of yourself. Thank you, Sifu Dane and the Blue Lantern family, for welcoming me and helping me further my path in Kung Fu. This school is a true Shaolin treasure for anyone on the martial arts journey!

I have been doing martial arts for the better part of 2 decades, Blue Lantern MA is one of the few schools I have had the privileges to train at. Along with teaching the various aspects of Shaolin Wing Chun, the school provides a family friendly learning environment and Sifu Dane provides a steady hand in pointing the way for personal growth and development both in martial arts and in life

Sifu Dane is awesome !! Very knowledgeable and not only shows you the how but why in a practical way not like other (cookie cutter) . Is of direct lineage , my niece and nephew really enjoyed their first class so glad he opened here in Ft worth area .