Gracie Jiu Jitsu Suprise

"Until I was stopped going to classes by my knee injury (Not Related To Training), Sensei Don was and is a very respectable and responsible teacher and mentor for all ages. His patience with kids and adults really shows his knowledge in class not just as a physical instructor, but also as a mental counselor. I look forward to healing from my surgery to get back into the groove and get my bearings under his teachings. An absolute astute man to learn from and will definitely be recommending him and his class as often as I can, wherever I can!"

"Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Surprise is amazing. It is a safe and fun place for kids to grow and learn. Coach Don is extremely thoughtful. The place is clean and perfect for adults and kids as well. We love the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Self Defense format for adults and kids versus the competition style schools for our family."

"My 8-year-old son has been attending Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Surprise for a few weeks now, and I can’t say enough good things about the experience. From the very first class, the instructors made him feel welcome and supported. The Gracie Bullyproof program is incredibly well thought out – it teaches kids how to defend themselves without encouraging aggression. They focus on discipline, respect, and building real confidence, not just flashy moves. What I really appreciate as a parent is the balance they strike between fun and structure. The classes are engaging enough to keep my son excited to come back, but they also reinforce important life lessons about responsibility, focus, and respect for others. The staff is amazing with kids – patient, encouraging, and clearly passionate about what they do. The environment is clean, professional, and very family-friendly. I’ve also noticed how much more confident and self-assured my son has becoming, both in class and at home. If you’re a parent looking for a martial arts program that teaches more than just kicks and punches, I highly recommend Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Surprise. It’s one of the best investments we’ve made in our child’s development."

""Proving You're Never Too Old to Start!" At 68 years old—with two hip replacements, a right knee replacement, and ongoing back issues—I wasn’t sure if starting Jiu Jitsu was even possible for someone like me. I had serious doubts about whether my body could handle it. But from day one, Don at Gracie Jiu Jitsu in Surprise put my mind at ease. Don personally assured me that with the Gracie method, I could go at my own pace, stay safe, and still experience all the benefits Jiu Jitsu has to offer. He was absolutely right. The training is structured, respectful, and incredibly empowering—designed for real people with real limitations. I’ve gained strength, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment I didn’t think was possible at this stage in life. If you think you’re “too old” or “too broken” to start, think again. This place has been life-changing, and I only wish I had found it sooner. Highly recommend to anyone of any age who’s even considering giving it a try!"