About Vaca BJJ & MMA
Welcome to Vaca BJJ & MMA, where we are dedicated to providing the highest quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our mission is to empower students of all ages and skill levels through the art of BJJ, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal growth.
Our Philosophy
At Vaca BJJ & MMA, we believe that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it's a way of life. Our approach combines technical excellence with practical application, ensuring that our students develop skills that work both on and off the mats.
Whether you're looking to compete at the highest levels, learn self-defense, or simply get in the best shape of your life, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Meet Our Instructors

John Smith
Head Coach - Black Belt
15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.

Maria Rodriguez
Kids Program Director - Brown Belt
Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.

David Chen
Competition Coach - Black Belt
Multiple-time IBJJF champion with a focus on competitive training.
Class Schedule
We offer a variety of classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Join us at a time that works for your schedule!
Membership Options
Invest in your health, fitness, and self-defense skills with our flexible membership options. Join our community today and start your Jiu-Jitsu journey!
Basic
Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
- Unlimited Fundamental Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi)
- Monthly Progress Assessments
Premium
Our most popular option with full access to all classes and amenities.
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi) + Rashguard
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- One Private Lesson Per Month
Family
Train together as a family with our comprehensive package.
- Access for 2 Adults + 2 Children
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Free Uniforms (Gi) for All Members
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- Discounted Private Lessons
Other Options
What Our Students Say
Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.
Carissa Dantas
"Professor Vaca is a great jiu jitsu, MMA and self defense teacher. Professor Lucas is an amazing jiu jitsu teacher for any age and any level. They both are from Natal, RN, Brazil and practice/teach real traditional jiu jitsu. Always evolving their skills and teaching methods. This is the best academy you can choose in the Massachusetts/Connecticut area. ... My son just has been training a couple weeks now in the new little kids class. He's learning patience, listening skills and learning jiu jitsu techniques through ludic games."
Melissa Rojas
"Vaca BJJ is the place to be. As a woman who is pretty new to martial arts, it's important to me to feel welcome and supported, but also challenged and taken seriously. The instructors here are incredible - all have world class titles and decades of experience, but are also humble and so encouraging. Vaca does a great job meeting his students where they are and you can tell that he really cares about his students and what their goals are. The students here are also just as welcoming. Vaca has done an excellent job cultivating a positive environment to challenge yourself and grow."
Robert Contant
"Great gym, great coaches, great community. Everyone is warm and welcoming. The coaches are amazing, always helping you to get better, clearly communicating the little, important details involved in every technique. The schedule is also much better than any other gym I’ve seen in the area, it makes it difficult to find an excuse why you can’t find at least some time to go and train every week :)"
Casey Nothe
"Coach Vaca is a great trainer and has helped me elevate my game a lot. The Saturday open mat is awesome and a great opportunity to go against new and different competition. The early morning training is great before school or work. The evening GI followed by No GI can turn into a great 2 hour session. I would recommend Coach Vaca to any of my friends."
Contact Us
Have questions or ready to start your Jiu-Jitsu journey? Get in touch with us today!
Send Us a Message
Our Location
Address
865 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089, USA
Phone
Hours
Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM