Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Welcoming, knowledge, kind people. Professor Kaleo taught two back takes from a pinch shrug as well as a half guard sweep in one class and I left class feeling confident I understand them enough to keep drilling them back home. My training partners gladly helped me make the needed adjustments during drilling and let me work during the open mat even though they could have smashed me. Well worth the drop in fee. Thank you Team Papakolea for your hospitality.

As a 60 yr old new comer to jujitsu, I wanted a workout but worried about getting hurt and fitting in. Coach Kaleo is very welcoming and informative. From the first day I was welcomed and there was a warm feeling of ohana to the whole group. The art of jujutsu takes me a long time to learn and eventually incorporate in real-time sparing. But on a class to class level it is still possible to try your very hardest against any opponent without getting hurt. Everyone is welcoming, respectful and non judgemental. It is a safe place for an old guy to learn something new. But make no mistake, the the members of the group are obviously at an exceptional skill level and will help you develop in any way you would like. Highly recommended.

I've been a student here at Team Papakolea Jiu jitsu since 2018, I first met kaleo at my Barbershop in kakaako, he came showed love and offered a free class for us barbers "if" we were Interested. That has been probably the greatest impulse move I've ever made, I still train there today and I've even started bringing my 2 daughters here as well. It is VERY family Oriented and the knowledge you get from a 2nd generation Gracie instructor is 2nd to none. Everyone I meet through this school I've became such close friends with, and it's a type of comradery that brings back memories from my years as an athlete. So if you're looking to challenge yourself, fail often but with grace in knowing you'll be better for it, come and give this school a shot.

Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu is absolutely incredible! The coaches are amazing—knowledgeable, patient, and truly dedicated to helping every student grow both on and off the mats. You can really feel the sense of ‘ohana here; everyone supports and pushes each other to be their best. Whether you’re a beginner or have been training for years, this is the perfect place to learn, grow, and be part of a genuine community. Couldn’t recommend it more!

TPJJ is more than just a place to learn jiujitsu; it’s a welcoming community where students of all ages can grow and thrive. Professor Kaleo and his family have built something truly special, creating a culture that feels like home from the moment you step through the doors. The way TPJJ teaches jiujitsu empowers kids to flourish, helping them build confidence they may not have had before. It’s incredible to see how the lessons learned here not only strengthen their skills on the mat but also carry over into other sports, hobbies, and everyday life. As a member myself, it has been a great place to learn the art, get in shape, stay in shape, and create good friendships! It’s been 6 years with TPJJ, and our family loves it!