Snake Hill Jiu-Jitsu

"I've been training with head coaches Nick Spencer and Steve Spencer for a year and a half now. Nick, my original fundamentals coach, is a phenomenal instructor. Both Nick and Steve are not only kind, patient, and knowledgeable but also absolute badasses on the mats. You don't have to take my word for it—step into the gym yourself, and you'll be welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm. Then look up on the walls, and you'll see the hundreds of medals these gentlemen have won as active competitors at high level competitions. I was fortunate to join a new class for beginners right as it started, and Nick did more than anyone to get me started, addicted, and comfortable in the complex game of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Even as an inexperienced white belt, Nick showed me his game, answered endless questions, and helped me develop my own style that fit my body, age, and goals. Steve as a training partner and mentor started early in helping me develop a competition mindset. The brothers' passion for BJJ is infectious, and the lessons I learned in my first months are still being refined over a year later. Every Friday, I commute from Beacon to Snake Hill just for the welcoming and supportive training environment. The camaraderie is second to none, and I leave sore, sweaty, and always having learned something new. There's an incredible group of guys who training at snake hill, whether you're a beginner looking to learn or a more advanced student seeking hard rolls—both will be there for you. The gym itself is impressive. The mats are the nicest I've ever rolled on, and there's a clean, green, light-drenched feel to the whole space. Nick, Steve, and their father—a wrestler who competed against Dan Gable and now hangs out offering encouragement and refreshments—create a friendly, family-oriented vibe with a killer mindset. If you're anywhere in the area, I highly recommend joining Snake Hill Jiu Jitsu. The hardest step is walking through the door. If, like me, you do NOT have a background in wrestling, judo, or combat sports, don't worry about it. Neither did Nick or Steve when they started many years ago, and they don't expect you to either. Just get in there and start training. You’ll wish you had years earlier."

"This is an excellent place to train for anyone in the Hudson Valley. If you're traveling or local to the area, stop by get some rolls in with a great group of people. All skill levels are welcome from novice to expert. This is an awesome environment to learn new techniques or just get a sweat in."

"If you’re anywhere in the Highland/Marlboro or even Dutchess close to the bridge, this is the spot. Spencer bros bring a plethora of knowledge and experience to the mats. The gym is clean, open, and brings a chill welcoming feel with it. Whether a beginner or a seasoned grappler/fighter, these guys will bring you in like you’re family."

"As someone who’s been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai for over 10 years and currently a brown belt in BJJ—I can confidently say that Snake Hill is the real deal. If you're in Orange County, Ulster County, or anywhere nearby and looking for a place to train with a welcoming team and strong community culture, Snake Hill is the place to go. The owners are men of integrity, and the level of skill and instruction is definitely there. They also offer excellent Muay Thai classes that are well worth your time. I highly recommend this gym."