PEDRO RODRIGUES
HEAD-INSTRUCTOR
Professor Pedro Rodrigues is a highly accomplished martial artist with a 4th degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a black belt in Judo. A former member of the Portuguese national team, he is an IBJJF European Champion, ADCC Spain and Portugal Champion, American National Champion and World Nogi Champion.
As a former MMA fighter he won the medium heavyweight belt at Arena Champions in Portugal and the Boston Series Freestyle Championship title in England.
With over 30 years of teaching experience he has trained and built champions, both in adults and kid's divisions in England, Portugal, California and now Utah.
SHANE TORO
COACH - ADULTS AND KIDS PROGRAMS
At 38 years old Shane Toro has built an impressive journey in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He started his training in 2022 where he quickly rose through the ranks to become a World Champion in 2024 and a Pan American Champion in 2026.
Recently promoted to purple belt by our Head Coach Pedro Rodrigues, Shane is now pursuing a career as a full-time coach bringing the same dedication and work ethic that once helped him run his own construction company.
Passionate about Jiu Jitsu he has become not only an accomplished competitor, but also a valued coach and leader at our gym.
TELMA RODRIGUES
COACH - NINJAS AND CHAMPS TEAMS
Telma Rodrigues is a dedicated blue belt with a lifelong passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, having started her training at just 3 years old. She has earned over 40 gold medals in competitions worldwide, including Portugal, Germany, Spain, California and now Utah.
Telma has been coaching kids for the past five years, sharing her experience and love for the sport. Recently graduated from high school, she is now pursuing a medical career in the Air Force.
AIDEN JEPPSEN
COACH-ASSISTANT - NINJAS TEAM
At just 15 years old Aiden has already shown an exceptional level of dedication to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Passionate about the sport he even transitioned to homeschooling to dedicate more time to training and competition. Since beginning to compete regularly last year Aiden has earned multiple achievements including titles at the United Grappling tournaments as well as Grappling Industries tournaments.
A yellow-black belt, Aiden is also a valued coach in our Ninjas class where he is known for his patience with students and his genuine passion for sharing the knowledge and experience he continues to build through his journey in Jiu Jitsu.
NEIL MCLAREN
COACH - STRIKING 101
Neil McLaren brings over two decades of striking experience to our team. He began training in boxing and kickboxing in Peterborough where he spent 10 years developing his foundation before continuing his journey in California, training for another decade at renowned boxing gyms under respected coaches in the combat sports community.
Over a 12-year competitive career, Neil fought across Holland, France, United Kingdom and twice in Thailand — the mecca of Muay Thai.
Known for his deep technical knowledge and wealth of experience Neil’s coaching style is highly detail-oriented with a strong focus on precision, fundamentals and effective technique.
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