Instructors & Staff

Professor Val is a 3rd-degree black belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu under Master Pedro Sauer and a 3rd-degree black belt in Judo.

Val has studied under several members of the Gracie family, including many years with Grandmaster Relson Gracie. His classes focus heavily on practical street self-defense.

Val teaches both group classes and private lessons. Come experience what we affectionately refer to as "Val-Jitsu."

Coach Ed is a black belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu under Master Pedro Sauer. Ed studied directly under Master Sauer at his headquarters in Northern Virginia. He has also studied under several members of the Gracie family, including Grandmasters Relson and Rickson Gracie.

Ed's goal is to teach his students authentic Gracie Jiu Jitsu with a strong focus on self-defense. He believes that anyone can do Jiu Jitsu, regardless of age, sex, size, or athletic ability. He strives to maintain a safe and supportive training environment where people can learn at their own pace.

As a university professor for 30 years, Ed loves teaching and helping to bring out the best in his students, both in the classroom and on the mats.

Ian is one of our assistant coaches who teaches in both our youth program and our adult fundamentals program. He is a 2nd degree purple belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu.

Kellen is a member of our office staff. He is also a blue belt in Gracie jiu jitsu and and an assistant instructor in our youth program. He can usually be found welcoming students and their families on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings.

Ms. Emily is a member of our office staff who can be found welcoming students and their families on Monday and Wednesday evenings.