The 47 BJJ Coop
About
The 47 BJJ Coop offers training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts, with a unique cooperative structure that includes instruction from multiple lineage black belts. Co-founders Damoon Nikaiyn, a BJJ black belt under John 'Birdman' Finn, and Anna Sweeney, a 3rd degree black belt in karate and certified self-defense instructor, lead the coaching alongside senior instructors John 'Birdman' Finn (4th degree BJJ black belt) and Michael Mackay (9th degree karate black belt). The gym provides focused workshops like the Differential series that build concepts progressively, along with regular classes including no-gi sparring sessions.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the welcoming, inclusive environment that makes beginners feel comfortable and respected, with specific appreciation for coaches Anna Sweeney's kind, patient approach and Damoon Nikaiyn's encouraging presence. Reviewers highlight the clear, layered instruction that helps students refocus their training and avoid plateaus, with workshops that intelligently build concepts. The gym is described as a fun, supportive third place where members get great workouts while building confidence. One visitor expressed disappointment with the no drop-in policy for morning sparring classes, finding it contrary to typical BJJ gym openness.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Stefan Knecht
a month ago
The Differential workshop was outstanding. Four tightly focused classes that went deep into disconnection. Every session built intelligently on the last, building on concepts rather then techniques. The instruction was clear, layered, and refreshingly honest. As a Blue belt, who might be on the verge of plateauing, this instruction has helped me refocus and set new intensions for each roll. Highly recommend.
Berto Elysee
3 months ago
Really fantastic place to train. Anna is a wonderful instructor, kind, patient, and detail-oriented in her approach. Damoon is very welcoming and encouraging as well, and above all, they both have helped to create a welcoming and inclusive environment. Would recommend the school without any hesitation!
JC
a month ago
This place has truly become my third place outside of work and home. A great place to learn jiu jitsu, meet new people, and have fun. It was scary at first to come in as a fresh white belt, but I’m so glad I did. If you’ve never tried jiu jitsu (or karate), or you’re looking for a new place to train, I highly recommend it. Damoon and Anna are the best! 😊
T
5 months ago
I absolutely love training at this gym! The environment is incredibly welcoming, fun, and supportive, making it the perfect place to learn. As a smaller woman, I’ve always felt comfortable and respected here, which has given me the confidence to ask questions and really focus on improving my BJJ. I always leave feeling like I got a great workout in!
Jeffrey Knight
6 months ago
I was passing through town and tried to drop in to the Thurs 7am "no gi sparring" class. There were three guys there. You would think "no gi sparring " at a "Jiu Jitsu Co-op" would love visitors but I was told the gym policy is no drop ins allowed. I've trained for 20 years now and visited many gyms and this is almost unheard of in the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu world which prides itself on openness. They're welcome to their policy but it goes against the norm and doesn't suggest a good gym culture. Giving 2 stars because at least they have morning classes.
scheduleHours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 7:00 – 8:30 AM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 – 8:30 AM, 6:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 – 8:30 AM, 6:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 – 8:30 AM, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Sunday: 10:00 – 11:00 AM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Damoon Nikaiyn
Co-Founder, BJJ Instructor
Black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under John 'Birdman' Finn
Teaches BJJ and grappling. Focuses on a calm, problem-solving, flow-based game with clear progressions and an emphasis on long-term training health.
Anna Sweeney
Co-Founder, Karate & Self-Defense Instructor
3rd degree black belt in Ueshiro Shorin Ryu Karate, Blue belt in BJJ, Certified World Combat Association Self-Defense Instructor
Teaches traditional Okinawan karate with focus on sustainable training: structure, balance, breath, timing. Self-defense emphasizes awareness and techniques under stress.
John 'Birdman' Finn
Lineage Black Belt / Senior Instructor
4th degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, under Jamie Cruz, Renzo Gracie lineage
Lineal black belt responsible for BJJ technical standards. Visits for detailed adjustments and coaching focused on pressure-tested, friendly training.
Michael Mackay, Kyoshi
Lineage Senior Instructor
9th degree Ueshiro Shorin Ryu Karate black belt
Anchors traditional karate training with focus on long-term practice, clean technique, and sustainable discipline. Influences bowing, movement, and decades-long practice.