Marcelo Mafra BJJ

"My kids have been going here for 2 years. We love it so much! Marcelo is amazing with the kids and has wonderful coaches. It’s a good family atmosphere and the tournaments are so much fun!! My children have become great competitors under his and his coaches instruction ! High highly highly recommend ! It makes a such a big difference in t at home and at school as well"

"This gym has really aided my child's mental health; not only has it assisted in the regulation of her behaviors, but it has also taught her how to exercise her critical thinking when place in a situation. Mafra has not only helped her develop character, but they have also established a family environment for our family. Thank you once more!"

"Not all gyms are created equal. Learning from Marcelo and his team has been an incredible experience. My two boys (4 and 7 years old) have been going to this gym since February (6 months). The environment is friendly, respectful, encouraging and empowering. You’ll see all kinds of kids, different ages, shapes and sizes, all working hard to get better at their BJJ and lives. There is zero tolerance for bullying, very practical rolling and great instruction. Marcelo Mafra is a world class athlete and BJJ World Champion. He’s a humble guy who takes his BJJ very seriously yet knows how to be a great mentor for the kids and be playful as well to teach them self defence and competitive BJJ. Now I started going (33 yrs old) and guess what!? The classes are amazing! I’ve been to another gym here in the desert and it is so sub par to the standards they have here that it makes me think what joker opens a gym being a purple belt? Marcelo and his instructors are mostly all black belts! My 4 year old gets lessons from a black belt! The lady at the front desk (Roberta) is absolutely stellar and very knowledgeable- she’s a black belt and my kids’ teacher!! It’s incredible the atmosphere of the gym and the people working together to improve their BJJ. If you’re looking to learn or have someone teach your kids, this is the place! Honestly, you won’t find better. It’s as world class as it gets and it’s up here in the desert!!! That’s a gem. I’m very happy and grateful to Marcelo and his team it’s truly been amazing to see my kids grow in their skills and now I can’t wait to see what a few years of training is going to do."

"Great environment to build strength and confidence. A wonderful family environment with support and acceptance. Very happy to have signed my sons up to be part of the Checkmat Team!"