Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu

This academy is one of the best if not the best in the city. If you’re looking to get in shape or get better on the mats this place is perfect for anyone because of the instructors and the students. They have an early morning class at 545am that I attended and it was perfect to get my day started. The school has a wide range of students from young kids to old school people like me. Professor Darrell and professor Paul are retired and they love teaching jujitsu and it shows with their instructions. When you roll with both professors you will know they’ve been on the mats for decades. I guarantee when you try this academy you will have a great experience and you will get addicted.

This Jiu Jitsu school offers a well-structured and professional training environment. As a woman, I felt genuinely seen and heard during classes, which speaks to the attentiveness of the coaching and overall culture. Coach Darrell is especially warm and welcoming—he creates a space where questions are encouraged and individual needs are respected without slowing down the integrity of the training. The classes are paced intelligently, making them easy to roll with while still allowing for solid technical development and progression. Training partners are personable, kind, and respectful, which makes drilling and live rounds productive and safe. The facility itself is clean, organized, and professional, reflecting the high standards of the school. I highly recommend this gym to anyone looking for quality instruction in a supportive environment.

Coming back to jiujitsu after a few years off can be intimidating—but walking back into this gym felt like coming home. Coach Darrell genuinely cares about his students first and foremost. He’s not just building fighters; he’s building a community. The culture here is welcoming, friendly, and fun, and the atmosphere makes you want to keep showing up. The jiujitsu itself is world-class—solid instruction, thoughtful details, and techniques that work. But just as importantly, everyone here is great to roll with. No egos, just respectful, helpful training partners who want to see you improve. Whether you’re brand new or returning after a break, this is the place where you’ll be respected, challenged, and supported.

Darrell is everything you hope for in a Jiu-Jitsu instructor and more. His talent on the mat is undeniable — technical, precise, and deeply knowledgeable — but what truly sets him apart is the kind of person he is. He teaches with intention and mindfulness, making sure every student understands not just the “how,” but the “why.” Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned practitioner, Darrell meets you where you are and helps you grow with patience and clarity. His attention to detail and ability to break down complex techniques make learning both accessible and empowering. Beyond his skill, Darrell genuinely cares. He creates an environment where everyone feels welcomed, supported, and valued. The academy doesn’t just feel like a place to train — it feels like family. He builds meaningful connections with his students, invests in their progress, and celebrates their wins both on and off the mat. Darrell leads with integrity. He’s someone you can trust completely — steady, respectful, and consistent in his character. He inspires confidence not only in your Jiu-Jitsu abilities, but in yourself. Training under him isn’t just about becoming better at the sport; it’s about becoming stronger mentally, emotionally, and as part of a community. If you have the opportunity to learn from Darrell, take it. Instructors like him are rare.

Training at Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu has been one of the best experiences of my life. From day one, the environment was incredibly welcoming and friendly. Whether you're a beginner or more advanced, you’ll find a community that supports and challenges you in the best way. I learned so much during my time here, not just techniques and strategy, but also discipline, strength, and mental toughness. The training is high level, but it’s delivered in a way that’s approachable and encouraging for everyone. Coach Darrell, the owner and head coach, sets the tone for the entire gym. He’s not only skilled and knowledgeable, but also graceful and respectful with both his team and new members. His leadership creates a positive and focused environment that makes you want to keep showing up and improving. If I had to pick a Jiu-Jitsu gym all over again, I would choose Like Minded Jiu Jitsu every single time. I’m grateful for everything I gained from training here … on and off the mats.