• Krav Maga 3rd Degree Black Belt
• Senior Krav Maga Instructor, Wingate Institute in Israel
• Krav Maga Alliance Executive Board and Training Team Member
• Certified Krav Maga Instructor Since 2005

EVKM Self Defense & Fitness was born from a vision sparked by founder Derrek Hofrichter just a few years after he moved to Phoenix. Having trained in Krav Maga previously for many years, Derrek recognized the profound impact the system could have in the East Valley on helping people “walk in peace,” as the founder of Krav Maga once said. Motivated by a passion to share effective self-defense with others, while treating every student with respect and fairness, Derrek opened the doors of EVKM in Tempe in 2011.

From day one, the goal was clear: create a high-quality and professional training environment that empowered individuals from all walks of life. Word quickly spread throughout the Phoenix community, and EVKM rapidly outgrew its first location. Now on its fourth facility, the studio remains a home where newcomers and experienced practitioners alike come to feel safe, challenge themselves, and develop the tools to live confidently.

Throughout the years, Derrek’s vision and commitment to excellence have guided EVKM to become one of the nation’s premier Krav Maga training centers. Recognition soon followed, including being named the 2014 Krav Maga Alliance School of the Year, 2017 Best Gym/Workout Studio in Phoenix, and even earning Derrek a spot among Arizona’s top 30 Health and Fitness Leaders under 40 in 2018. Media outlets have also taken notice with EVKM featured more than 50 times in TV segments, newspapers, radio, and print articles, solidifying its reputation as the area’s foremost authority in self-defense.

Although Derrek has since stepped away from daily operations, his founding principles continue to guide every class and instructor at EVKM. Today, he is proud to remain a mentor to the many black belts and instructors who carry on the mission he set forth: to help as many people as possible walk in peace and gain confidence through the empowering practice of self defense training.