Instructors

There is no single person more versed in the teachings of Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu than the grandmaster’s one and only son, Carlson Gracie Jr. Often regarded in circles as “Junior”. Carlson Jr. began training under his father at the age of 3 in Brazil and in his life has accomplished a great deal. Carlson is a multiple time Brazilian champion, Greco roman champion, Black Belt in Judo, & 5th degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Some of his extraordinary early accomplishments were being voted the “best Purple Belt” in all of Brazil, and having won his first blackbelt competition right out of the gate.

Carlson Jr. competed the world over successfully in all manners of combat including Vale Tudo. He received acclaim from his peers such as Carlos Gracie Sr. and the Federation of Brazil for his ability to compete and also teach. In 2008, Carlson Jr. opened his own school in Southern California called the “Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Team”. Based in the Murrieta / Temecula area, the school serves as the headquarters of the Carlson Gracie Federation and in its short time has begun producing champions under Jr’s. Teachings. In addition, the school has served as an anchor to help bring the Carlson Gracie Team back together as an organization, with a resurgence of success in competition.

In March of 2009’ The team won the prestigious novice division title and also took 2nd place in the Masters Black Belt divisions at the Pan American Jiu-Jitsu championships, signaling a new era for the team with Carlson’s school serving as a springboard to further organize his Federation and continue his father’s tradition. Carlson splits his time teaching here while traveling to Chicago, IL to continue teaching at the school […]

Andre has been training Jiu-Jitsu since 1997 under some truly skilled masters and has a great passion for the martial arts. His classes are geared toward making the most efficient use of time and he’s always teaching in a unique format that keeps the classes interesting and functional. With a background in other martial arts and life experience in law enforcement and the U.S. Military, Andre brings a diverse skill set to the table. He also began training in Muay Thai Boxing about 14 years ago and has travelled abroad in his studies.  Andre remains one of the most humble and nicest instructors you could have and students can look forward to being on the mat with a professional teacher who loves to share his knowledge with all.

Tom started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2007’ and has always been a student directly under Carlson Gracie Jr. He teaches kids & adult classes and competes as much as possible. Tom’s favorite aspect of the school is watching students improve and overcome personal obstacles during their time on the mat.  Tom is a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and also a Brown Belt in Judo. He believes that being well rounded is essential in martial arts and trains in self-defense, standing techniques and ground work.

“Personally, I like to train in all areas and positions with everyone that I’m lucky enough to meet. I feel training with people from different schools is also important as everyone brings something good to the table, Also if you don’t know how to engage opponents on the feet, then there is a huge gap in your skillset.“

Some of Tom’s personal achievements include:

2 X Pan American Bronze Medalist (2013′)

3 X Pan American Gold Medalist (2009’, 2010’, 2011’)

9 X American National Gold Medalist (2008’, 2009’, 2010’, 2011’)

4 X World Championship Gold Medalist.  (2008’, 2010’, 2011’, 2012′)

California State Games Judo Championships Gold Medalist.   (2010’)