“I have been training with Sergio since the summer of 2004. I was almost 41 years old when I first started training. At that time I had worked out very consistently in the gym and running for about 3 years. I liked being in shape, but the monotony was killing me. I had always wanted to try a martial art when I was younger, but I could not afford it. I was also concerned about being too old. After my brother died, I was reminded that we have limited tomorrows and it is important to try things while we still can. The school has been like a fountain of youth for me. I have learned a ton of Jiu-Jitsu. I have suffered the frustration of not being able to achieve as well as the thrill of breaking through to a deeper understanding of the Art. Sergio has a very thoughtful curriculum. He plans out the week with a certain focus. He know his students well and monitors their progress closely. The Academy has a strong culture of camaraderie. It is a close team where competition is truly friendly. We have a very strong and open community. I have seen the training experience transform many people, especially adolescents. The teenage years can be hard and cruel. It is a different experience if one has the confidence that they can competently defend themselves.”
- Tony Rank: Brown Belt