Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu
About
Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu in San Francisco offers training in both MMA and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, led by a team of highly accomplished instructors. The gym is owned and operated by Woolf Barnato, a Ralph Gracie black belt and IBJJF World and Pan Am champion, and Danny Speirn, a black belt under Barnato and IBJJF medalist. The coaching staff includes Cole Franson as NoGi Program Head, David Strand as Fundamentals Program Head, and instructors Niko Duffy and Lauren Sacks, who brings expertise to both kids and adult programs. This creates a comprehensive training environment suitable for all skill levels, from fundamentals to advanced competition preparation.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere, describing the gym as friendly and supportive from the moment they walk in. They highlight the playful, fun, and high energy environment where players respect each other while learning effective techniques. Specific coaches like Woolf, Danny, Cole, Lauren, David, and Niko are mentioned by name for their detailed explanations and attention to individual growth. Many describe the gym as more than just a training facility but a family that pushes members to become better versions of themselves both physically and mentally.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Ashley Mak
4 months ago
I can't recommend this place more. Amazing school, clean and friendly. Martial art schools are intimidating to begin with. But the moment you walk in, you're greeted with a smile. The owners are top knotch guys and are amazing at jiujitsu (I can't come up with the words to describe them!) The coaches there are also amazing, always finding ways to help their students grow. If you are considering joining a jiujitsu school, this place is it!
Steven Teijeiro
8 months ago
Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu is a no nonsense dojo and space to train, however, this doesn’t mean the vibes are claustrophobic or mean. On the contrary, the overall mood and atmosphere are playful, fun, and high energy. Players respect one another on the mat while executing truly effective grappling techniques all taught by knowledgeable and friendly teachers. If I could give it a 6/5 I would.
Ismenia Briceno
a year ago
Best Jiu Jitsu gym in Marin. Everyone here is so welcoming from the coaches to the people, they have built a great community. They’re all great athletes and really push you into becoming a great athlete in the sport. The teachers, and owner have great attention to detail and really work with you when you’re having a hard time. I highly recommend this gym if you’re looking to get into the martial arts world.
Doug Nichols
5 months ago
Great gym with great coaches. I started Jiu-Jitsu at an older age and it has been amazing for my physical and mental health. So thankful for this place
Isidora Bastias
a year ago
Best jiu-jitsu gym in Marin! Black sheep is more than a gym, it is a family. Everybody is so friendly and pushes you to achieve a better version of yourself on the mat, Woolf, Danny, Cole, Lauren, David, Niko are amazing coaches and take the time to explain the moves in detail. I highly recommend Black sheep if you want to get a high-level training
Contact
725 Center Blvd, Fairfax, CA 94930, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Woolf Barnato
Owner / Head BJJ Instructor
Ralph Gracie Black Belt, IBJJF World & Pan Am Champion
Marin County's Woolf Barnato, a black belt under Ralph Gracie and Kurt Osiander, started BJJ at 16 and became a decorated competitor, winning IBJJF World and Pan Am titles.
Danny Speirn
Owner / BJJ Instructor
Black Belt under Woolf Barnato, IBJJF Worlds & Pan Ams Medalist
Discovered his passion for Jiu Jitsu at 19 and quickly rose to become a medalist at both IBJJF Worlds and Pan Ams. His classes are known for their technical focus.
Cole Franson
NoGi Program Head / BJJ Instructor
Former World Champion
Leads the NoGI program. A designer, artist, and accomplished BJJ competitor, Cole's classes leverage his championship techniques and meticulous attention to detail.
David Strand
Fundamentals Program Head / BJJ Instructor
Multi-time IBJJF Champion
Leads the Mon & Wed evening Fundamentals Program. Passionate about BJJ's potential for self-improvement, fitness, and community.
Niko Duffy
BJJ Instructor
Started training Jiu Jitsu at 16. He teaches a high energy and fast paced class with a teaching style that is detail oriented and beginner friendly.
Lauren Sacks
Kids & Adult BJJ Instructor
IBJJF Pans, American Nationals, and No-Gi Worlds Medalist
Combines her deep knowledge of game mechanics with her extensive Jiu-Jitsu experience to make her kid and adult classes fun, structured, and filled with fast-paced drills.