Joseph Thomas is a dedicated Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner who has been training in the martial art since 2006. With a deep passion for the art, Joseph has dedicated countless hours to honing his skills and perfecting his technique. His commitment and hard work have paid off, as he currently holds a brown belt under the renowned instructor Jon Thomas.

Joseph is known for his intense focus on technique, constantly striving to improve and refine his movements. He is a true student of the art, always seeking to deepen his knowledge and understanding of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His dedication and hard work have earned him a reputation as a skilled and formidable practitioner, respected by his peers in the BJJ community.

Yani is a dedicated purple belt who loves training in the gi and bringing a mindful, balanced approach to the mats. With a passion for teaching kids and guiding students through yoga, Yani emphasizes movement, discipline, and fun as the foundation for learning jiu-jitsu.

Outside of technique, Yani focuses on longevity in training—helping students build healthy habits, prevent injuries, and use jiu-jitsu as a path toward living a stronger, better lifestyle both on and off the mats.

I’ve been grappling for about 7 years now. My interests go well beyond jiu-jitsu but to all forms of combat sport having participated in various forms throughout the years including Wrestling, C.A.T.C.H, Sambo, Judo and various striking arts.

I’ve been teaching since I was a blue belt, starting within the kids jiu-jitsu program then moving into the adult program and private lessons at purple belt. I specialize in a conceptual and principle based approach to learning. I’ve taught my style of grappling to a wide range of people from the age of 5 through 64. I believe the combat arts can be made to be enjoyed by anyone regardless of age and physical limitations.

I have been a lifelong fan of martial arts since attending Tae Kwon Doe classes with my father as a child. In the past 5 years I've reignited my love for striking with boxing, kickboxing, and Muay Thai specifically with the help of some of the best fighters Louisville has to offer. "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

With a professional background in human behavior, I absolutely love teaching people new skills. Muay Thai is "The Art of Eight Limbs" and as such presents so many challenges and problems to work through. I believe in coaching fundamentals through a lens of critical thinking and play-based learning that is personalized to each and every person that walks onto the mats. Come learn with us!

I started my training in 2011 and received my purple belt in 2017, but after that I took a 6 year break. I came back to bjj in 2023, so making a comeback is possible! I love jiu jitsu because it offers a constant mental challenge that you can use your creativity and your body to overcome. I like to focus on the core movements of bjj and finding ways to apply them to various positions. Whether you already love jiu jitsu, are interested in trying it, or are looking to make a comeback, I will work alongside you to make that journey accessible, fun, and safe.

I started training in 2019 and I’m currently a purple belt. Jiu jitsu is great because it helps you off the mat just as much as it does on. Training on the mats will give you the confidence to protect yourself and loved ones but will also serve as a great workout. Jiu jitsu is also a good tool to help you build mental toughness and patience.

“Jiu-Jitsu for sure will save your ass, one way or another. Not necessarily a physical fight but also being able to deal with yourself, know about yourself, and really improve yourself as a whole.”

-Kron Gracie