GRAND RE-OPENING
Of our newly renovated 5,000 sq. ft. space at our Tatum location.
SATURDAY, Sep 6th, 2025
Family and Community Activities from 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Special Seminar with Rener Gracie from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
HUGE RAFFLE PRIZES | ORGANIC FOOD & COFFEE TRUCKS | LIVE DJ | COLD PLUNGE
COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE | FUN FOR THE KIDS! – 22′ WATER SLIDE | OBSTACLE COURSE
GIANT CONNECT 4 & JENGA | COLORING CONTEST | APPEARANCE by the PHOENIX FIRE
DEPARTMENT with a FIRE TRUCK for the KIDS to EXPLORE
EVENT SPONSORS
GRAND RE-OPENING
Of our newly renovated 5,000 sq. ft. space at our Tatum location.
SATURDAY, Sep 6th, 2025
Family and Community Activities from 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Special Seminar with Rener Gracie from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
HUGE RAFFLE PRIZES | ORGANIC FOOD & COFFEE TRUCKS | LIVE DJ | COLD PLUNGE | COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE | FUN FOR THE KIDS! – 22′ WATER SLIDE | OBSTACLE COURSE | GIANT CONNECT 4 & JENGA | COLORING CONTEST | APPEARANCE by the PHOENIX FIRE DEPARTMENT with a FIRE TRUCK for the KIDS to EXPLORE
Cool down with high-speed fun!

Get ready for nonstop thrills with our 22-foot Triple Lane Water Slide, brought to the event by AZ Jolly Jumpers. This towering inflatable attraction is the ultimate way to beat the heat while turning up the excitement. With three side-by-side lanes, you can race your friends to the bottom or keep the fun going all day long with back-to-back slides. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, this giant slide brings serious energy to the party. Don’t forget your swimsuit — this crowd favorite is sure to make a splash at the Grand Opening celebration. Come ready to slide, splash, and laugh with the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix community.
It’s game on with Giant Connect 4!

Bring your competitive spirit and test your skills at Giant Connect 4, a larger-than-life version of the classic game that’s fun for all ages. Whether you’re going head-to-head with a friend or helping the kids strategize their next move, this oversized setup makes for an engaging break between demos and food runs. Easy to play but tough to master, Connect 4 delivers quick, crowd-friendly fun that adds a playful energy to the event. Step up, drop your discs, and see if you can connect four before your opponent does. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia, challenge, and family-friendly entertainment.
Stack it high and don’t let it fall!

Add a little suspense to your day with Giant Jenga, the oversized game that brings big-time fun to every age group. Whether you’re playing casually or competing for bragging rights, this crowd-pleaser challenges your nerves and your steady hand as the tower grows taller with every turn. The larger-than-life blocks make it a hit for families, friends, and spectators alike, turning each move into a moment of anticipation. Take a break from the action and test your focus in this simple yet exciting game. Just be ready — because when it tumbles, it’s game over.
Get ready to fuel up with flavor!

We’re excited to welcome a delicious addition to our Grand Opening celebration: a food truck powered by BLT Kitchens, serving a fresh and fully organic menu of build-your-own bowls, burritos, and tacos. Whether you’re fueling up before a seminar or recharging after a demo, this food truck offers health-forward, chef-crafted options with bold Southwestern flavor. With customizable ingredients and clean, locally sourced produce, there’s something tasty for everyone to enjoy, from carnivores to plant-based warriors. Don’t miss your chance to taste what Phoenix’s top culinary incubator is cooking up.
Catch a buzz the organic way!

We’re proud to feature Cruizin for a Brewzin, an organic coffee cart serving up bold, barista-crafted drinks made with 100% organic beans. From smooth cold brews to rich espresso and creamy lattes, every cup is brewed fresh using premium, responsibly sourced ingredients. This mobile coffee experience is all about clean energy, great taste, and high-quality ingredients that align with a health-focused lifestyle. Whether you’re grabbing a morning boost or a mid-day refill, this cart delivers a delicious pick-me-up you can feel good about. Sip something special while celebrating with the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix community.
Meet the heroes behind the sirens!

We’re honored to welcome the City of Phoenix Fire Department to our Grand Opening celebration. Firefighters will be on-site with one of their impressive fire trucks, giving kids and families a chance to get up close, explore the equipment, and learn more about the people who protect our community. It’s a rare opportunity to interact with real-life heroes in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Whether you’re snapping photos, asking questions, or watching little ones light up with excitement, this experience adds a meaningful and memorable touch to the day. Come say hello and meet the team that keeps Phoenix safe.

Meet Our Head Instructor

Adam Ideson
Head Instructor
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Adam Ideson has been dedicated to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu® since 2010. From his first class, he was drawn not only to the effectiveness of the art, but to its ability to transform lives. In 2013, he became a Certified Instructor through the Gracie Academy* and has since earned advanced certifications, including Gracie Survival Tactics®, Gracie Medical Defense®, and SafeWrap®.
Today, Adam serves as Head Instructor of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix and plays an active role in supporting other Certified Training Centers across the country, including contributions to Gracie University Headquarters. Known for his thoughtful teaching style and deep commitment to student growth, Adam is a respected leader within the organization and a passionate advocate for safe, structured, and empowering instruction.
*In 2017, the Gracie Academy outgrew its previous location and was rebranded as Gracie University to reflect its growth from a single academy to a global organization.
Listen to the Podcast: Head Instructor Adam Ideson Shares the Story Behind Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix
Meet the Certified Instructor Team
These are the instructors you will find in both of our academies—each bringing care, clarity, and connection to every class.
Our instructor team is made up of passionate, highly trained educators who bring Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense to life for students of all ages. Every coach has completed the rigorous Gracie University Instructor Certification Program, and shares a deep commitment to structure, safety, and empowerment in every class.
Certified Women Empowered® Instructors: These instructors have completed advanced training through Gracie University specific to trauma-informed, women-centered self-defense. Every Women Empowered® class is led by these amazing instructors.
Each instructor maintains ongoing certification and continuing education requirements to uphold the integrity and quality of instruction set forth by Gracie University.
BP – Bullyproof® | GC – Gracie Combatives®
| MC – Master Cycle®
| WE – Women Empowered®

Alisha Olson
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Brandon Clark
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David Sandoval
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Erica Schoenberger
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Joe Court
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Justin Koester
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Kai Koester
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Kiara Howerzyl
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Lance Praet
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Ruthy Mavashev
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Sarah Richetto
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Troy Mylius
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Women Empowered® – Dedicated Instructors

Amy Barrus

Angela Okerye

Bella Azzi

Nina Bignalet

Vivian Globus
Real people. Real results.
Discover how people just like you have built strength, confidence, and lasting change through Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix.
Personalized instruction for all ages. Three generations of the same family training together.
“I can’t emphasize enough how incredible the instructors are who teach private lessons at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Over the past couple of years, my father, my son, and I, have all had the privilege of working with several instructors, and each one has impressed me with their deep knowledge of the techniques and the training programs.
What truly stands out is their patience and understanding. Even on days when my confidence wavers, they are always there to listen and uplift me, providing the encouragement I need to push through. Their ability to connect with students of all ages is remarkable; they are just as fantastic with kids as they are with adults.
If you’re seeking personalized attention or looking for someone to work with your children, you can’t go wrong with any of the instructors at this school. Their dedication to teaching and fostering a supportive environment makes all the difference in the learning experience.”
– Jana Foreman
Private Lessons Elevated My Son—and Our Whole Family.
“My son has been training at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix since he was five, and it has been an incredible journey for both him and our family over the past nine years. Initially, he thrived in the group class environment, enjoying the camaraderie and teamwork. However, as he grew, he expressed a desire to advance his skills more rapidly, which led us to explore the private lessons offered by Adam and his dedicated team.
The difference was remarkable. After just a few private lessons, we noticed that the personalized instruction was far more effective than group classes. In this one-on-one setting, my son received tailored feedback that addressed his unique needs and goals, allowing him to progress at a pace that felt just right for him. This approach not only fostered his growth but also provided the flexibility our busy family needed in scheduling lessons.
One of the key advantages we found in private lessons, is the focused attention my son received. The group classes are fantastic but with private instruction, he had the opportunity to directly connect with, learn from, drill, and roll with experienced instructors like Adam and Brandon, ensuring a personalized, safe, and enriching learning environment.
As my son mastered new techniques and faced challenges, I witnessed a significant boost in his confidence. Over the past nine years, under the guidance of Adam and Brandon, he has developed remarkable mental toughness and resilience. Their encouragement and support have played a crucial role in his growth, not just in Jiu-Jitsu but in all aspects of his life.
Adam and his team genuinely care about the wellbeing and success of their students. They are committed to fostering a positive and empowering atmosphere, making it an ideal place for children to learn and thrive. For any parent looking to elevate their child’s Jiu-Jitsu experience and be impacted by positive, caring, and capable mentors, I wholeheartedly recommend considering private lessons with this talented and dedicated team.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss my experience further, feel free to reach out to Adam for my contact information.”
– Chris Eyrich
Finding confidence and calm through private training.
“I started training at Gracie jiu-jitsu Phoenix last year. I needed to find self defense classes in Phoenix as I was feeling stressed after reading or watching the news. Walking around with no training in self defense kept me in a chronic state of fight of flight. I asked several friends in Arizona where to find the best jiu jitsu in Phoenix, and my chiropractor recommended Gracie jiu-jitsu Phoenix. He told me that it was extremely clean, professional and well run as a business. I was nervous walking in to inquire about taking a lesson! Bri and Adam were both so friendly and helpful that I immediately felt at ease.
I never expected my lessons to have a significant impact on my self confidence, business and marriage. Training with Adam is the highlight of my week. He challenges me to change my perspective on learning. Initially, I felt frustrated when I could not master new concepts with ease. Adam has instilled a new sense of joy, and appreciation for learning. The environment at Gracie is simultaneously fun and respectful.
Taking private lessons at Gracie has opened up my world again. When I started training, my autoimmune symptoms were relentless. My training has instilled in me that with the right skills and strategy, I can learn to be the victor in any battle. I no longer walk around feeling scared. My confidence has sky rocketed, and I have more “good days”. Taking private Jiu- jitsu lessons at Gracie has enhanced my quality of life in every way possible. My only regret? Not starting sooner.”
– Megan Graham
What Started for My Kids Became Life-Changing for All of Us.
“I stumbled into the right place! Six years ago, my oldest son was being bullied at school and I wanted him to have the skills and confidence to stand up for himself. The Bullyproof program and the Little Champs classes were perfect for him. He loved it from the very first class, has been training ever since, and is currently thriving in Black Belt Club. My younger son started a year later and also loves it and they continue to train together. The kids’ programs continue to reinforce discipline, listening, mental and physical strength along with the 6 Character Development Traits of manners, respect, responsibility, caring, health and citizenship.
The community that Adam has created is one of the most positive atmospheres that I’ve ever been around. It got me training on the mat, too, and I have been at it for about a year and a half. For me, it is everything. It’s physically and mentally challenging, it’s humbling, it’s empowering, it’s fun, and it’s something that has become a big part of our life and we have all made some very good friends in the process.”
– Jason Zipser
From Student to Teacher: How Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix Changed My Course
“I came across Gracie Phoenix when I was looking for true self defense. I was struggling and skeptical. The support I found, the empowerment I experienced, and the commitment to detailed teaching, is like none other. My journey through the Combatives program impacted me so much, I decided to become an instructor so I could share with others! I am proud to be a part of this community.”
– Kiara Howerzyl
More Than Fighting—It’s a Fun, Respectful Community.
“I have to say this is one of the best places to learn the art of jiu-jitsu the teaching and the knowledge that Adam has is outstanding!! Everyone that attends here is so happy and satisfied with great and positive energy! You will never feel out of place here it’s not a place where you just train and take all your anger out it’s a fun and awesome learning experience! I highly recommend this place you will not be disappointed!”
– Tony Adams
“Like Family” How GJJPHX Teaches Respect and Caring.
“My 7-year old son has been going here for about a year now. He has been involved in many youth organizations and I have to say, without a doubt, this is THE most well-run of them all. Coach Adam and his team are dedicated to all of the students, youth and adult. The staff’s commitment, compassion, and care for everyone who walks through the door is evident in everything they do. When a new student is introduced, Coach Adam tells the class what the student’s name is and then asks “How do we treat him/her?” And in unison, the class replies …LIKE FAMILY. Integrity, manners, respect, caring, and good citizenship are concepts the students are rewarded for constantly displaying. My son is an only child so we have him involved in many things. This is, BY FAR, the best thing he does. In closing, my family owes Coach Adam and his amazing staff a huge thank you for the level of effort and commitment they bring to the mat everyday.”
– Christopher Jason
Confidence, Awareness, and Joy—More Than I Could Have Hoped For.
“I was blessed the day I found Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix. The feeling that came over my body the first time I flipped Adam (instructor) over and I ended up on top was pure joy. I felt accomplished and safe! I was so happy. That day changed my life. And I’ve been on the mat almost every day since then. Learning how to Truly defend myself against an attacker has brought me more happiness than I’ve ever imagined. Something I am forever grateful for. I recommend Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix to everyone. Men, women and kids can learn so much from this school. My 5 yr old is in the Bullyproof program and loves it! I love it because she’s learning how to defend herself against bullies and strangers (badguys). She knows how to get away. Something every parent should want their kids to know. She’s more aware of her surroundings and she knows what to do in a scary Situation. She’s learning respect, manners, discipline, about health etc. I am so proud of her and all that she’s learned.”
– Nicky Bustamante