Three black belts. Ten coaches. One standard. Led by Professors Roberto Cuartero III and Juan Romero — one professor at each mat.
Black Belt 4th Degree. Former U.S. Marine. 20+ years on the mat coaching 100+ amateur and professional fighters across UFC, Bellator, and PFL. Founded Gracie Barra Jacksonville — the first GB school in North Florida.
Black Belt 1st Degree. 13+ years on the mat with a competition résumé that includes a Pan-American Gold medal, plus IBJJF and Abu Dhabi World Pro medals. Leads the St Johns academy day-to-day with a focus on technical precision and relentless work ethic.
Nearly 10 years training, retired professional MMA fighter, and former U.S. Army. Coaches both amateur and pro fighters on the striking side of the game.
Training since 2011. Film-study practitioner who breaks the game down to its building blocks. "Jiu-jitsu builds discipline — that's what we coach first."
Nearly 7 years on the mat with an athletics background. Specializes in kids programs — named by parents across both mats as "a gift for teaching."
Training since childhood. Full-time deputy with the St Johns County Sheriff's Office.
On the mat since 2013. Father, husband, and a coach who leads with "positive mental attitude and consistency" for every age in the room.
8 years training. Counseling background — blends mental resilience, focus and personal empowerment into every class she runs.
6 years on the mat despite physical challenges. Teaches the mental health dimension of the art alongside the technical one.
Training since 2018. Competition-focused. Self-expression through the game.
On the mat since 2021 — started because of his son Deklan, stayed because of the community.
Found the mat through fitness, stayed because he wanted to help others find it too.
From student to coach on the kids' mat. A female practitioner inspiring other women to step into the game.
Focused on youth development on and off the mat.
