Professor Sandro Silva is a lifelong martial artist from Brazil, holding a fourth-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Iliarde Santos, a sixth-degree black belt in the lineage of Ricardo de la Riva and Carlson Gracie. He began training in Jiu-Jitsu and Capoeira at the age of five, which laid the foundation for his impressive 33-year career that includes over 150 professional fights across various disciplines, such as Boxing, Capoeira, Muay Thai, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and Vale Tudo.

With 18 years of teaching experience in multiple countries, Sandro employs a unique, effective, and fun teaching method that engages students while sharing his extensive martial arts knowledge and life experiences as a father, educator, and war veteran. As an international martial arts instructor and holder of five university degrees, he is dedicated to helping students build confidence, discipline, and resilience through the transformative power of martial arts.

Suzanne is a psychologist with 10 years of experience specializing in human behavior and a passionate Jiu-Jitsu practitioner with over four years of experience. Her expertise allows her to support the team with effective teaching strategies, focusing on the individual needs of each student while helping them build confidence, discipline, and resilience. Actively involved in the Kids Program, she ensures a safe environment where children can learn and grow. With her background in psychology, she fosters emotional well-being and positive development. She believes that life is a continuous journey of learning and growth—where giving up is never an option.

4th-Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Capoeira Master
Professional MMA Veteran – 41 Wins

Professor Zezão “Trator” Gomes is a highly respected martial arts coach with over 20 years of experience. Born in Belém, Brazil, he began training Capoeira at age 9 and went on to become a Capoeira Master and a 4th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

He has competed at the highest level, holding an impressive MMA record of 41 wins, including 20 by knockout and 11 by submission. Throughout his journey, Zezão has trained with world-renowned fighters like Lyoto Machida, Glover Teixeira, Michel Pereira, Alex Pereira, and Deiveson Figueiredo.

Today, he teaches Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, Boxing and  Muay Thai to students of all levels in a motivating and welcoming environment focused on personal growth and technical excellence.

Ian Rittinger is a paralegal who graduated from San Diego State University in 2018. Ian started training jiu jitsu in San Diego in 2018, and has been in love with the art ever since. He received his purple belt in September 2024 under Prof. Sandro Silva. A lapel guard enthusiast with a playful mindet, Ian loves experimenting with new techniques and enjoys intense, technical rolls with his training partners.