Meet your instructors

Grand Master Marcus Soares

Founder & Head Instructor — the Father of BJJ in Canada

9th-Degree Red Belt · Direct student of Carlson Gracie

Widely recognised as the Father of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Canada, Marcus is a 9th-degree red belt with more than 56 years on the mats and over 50 years of teaching. He joined the Carlson Gracie team in 1970 — the very first generation — and taught at the Carlson Gracie Academy in Copacabana before becoming, in 1997, the first black belt to teach BJJ in Canada. Today, nearly 30 years on, he remains the only Grandmaster in the country and still teaches across all three academies.

Eden Cheung

Professor — Vancouver

Black Belt · Marcus Soares fundamentals curriculum

A black belt with over 10 years of training and 7 years of teaching, Eden combines technical knowledge with a thoughtful coaching style. He helps students build confidence by understanding not just what to do, but why it works.

Hiro Amano

Professor — Vancouver

Black Belt · Marcus Soares fundamentals curriculum

A black belt with more than 15 years of experience, Hiro emphasises strong fundamentals, disciplined training and respect for the traditions of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His classes are welcoming, focused and detail-oriented.

Justin Livingston

Submission Grappling Coach — Vancouver

Black Belt · Promoted by Marcus Soares in 2020

Justin coaches the no-gi submission grappling classes at the Vancouver academy. He earned his black belt under Grand Master Marcus Soares in 2020.

Dana Adams

Student Success & Membership Coordinator

Brown Belt · 16+ years training under Marcus Soares

With more than 16 years of training under Grand Master Marcus Soares, Dana plays a key role in supporting students and families across the academy. From helping new members get started to assisting with kids programs and student development, she is passionate about creating a welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Ezekiel Adams

Coach — Langley & Maple Ridge

MSBJJ Certified Coach · Training under Marcus Soares since age 5

Raised in the academy and training under Grand Master Marcus Soares since childhood, Ezekiel brings energy, patience and a welcoming approach to every class. His lifelong experience in the program helps him connect naturally with students of all ages.

Jon Curtis

Professor — Maple Ridge

3rd-Degree Black Belt · Under Marcus Soares since 2007

Training since 2004 and under Marcus Soares since 2007, Jon brings nearly 20 years of teaching experience to the mats. Known for his energetic coaching style, he motivates students to challenge themselves, work hard and reach their potential.

Nav Padda

Kids & Adult Coach · Competition Team

Black Belt · Marcus Soares fundamentals curriculum

Nav brings a modern, technical approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while maintaining the traditions of the Carlson Gracie lineage. He works closely with both children and adults and plays a key role in developing students for competition and long-term progression.

Samuel Francisco

Boxing Coach — Langley

Samuel leads Boxing Foundations at the Langley academy — the striking class that runs alongside the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu curriculum.

Capri Rietel

Supports Members at Maple Ridge

Capri helps guide new students and families through their first steps at the academy. With four children and her husband actively training in the program, she understands the needs of busy families and works to ensure every member feels welcomed and supported.