Our Maple Ridge academy offers a welcoming, family-oriented environment where children build confidence, discipline and resilience through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Many of our competition team members train here, creating an atmosphere where students can simply enjoy training or challenge themselves through tournaments as they grow.
Lil Tots (4–5) and Kids BJJ (6–13)
Structured classes grouped by age
Confidence, discipline and anti-bullying skills
Family-friendly and beginner welcoming
Opportunities for competition and personal growth
Authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu taught through the Marcus Soares system
Designed specifically for younger learners, our Lil Tots program introduces children to movement, coordination, confidence and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals in a fun and supportive environment. Classes help children develop listening skills, body awareness and positive habits while building a strong foundation for future training.
Lil Champs
Ages 6–8
Our Lil Champs program introduces children to authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through structured, age-appropriate classes. Students develop confidence, focus, coordination and teamwork while learning real skills in a supportive environment. Perfect for children who are ready to build strong fundamentals and positive habits both on and off the mats.
Champ Kids
Ages 9–13
Champ Kids combines technical Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction with higher levels of responsibility, discipline and personal growth. Students learn to solve problems, work with partners and develop confidence through consistent training and achievement. Classes challenge students while maintaining a positive and encouraging atmosphere.
Meet your Maple Ridge instructors
Grand Master Marcus Soares
Founder & Head Instructor — the Father of BJJ in Canada
9th-Degree Red Belt · Direct student of Carlson Gracie
Canada's only 9th-degree red belt. A direct Carlson Gracie black belt with over 50 years on the mats and one of the pioneers of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Canada.
DA
Dana Adams
Student Success & Membership Coordinator
Brown Belt · 16+ years training under Marcus Soares
With more than 16 years training under Grand Master Marcus Soares, Dana plays a key role in supporting students and families across the academy.
Nav Padda
Kids & Adult Coach · Competition Team
Black Belt · Marcus Soares fundamentals curriculum
Black Belt, instructor and competition team coach.
EA
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.
What Maple Ridge members say
We've been training with Marcus, Dana and Nav for a couple of years and without a doubt, my son has built more confidence, respect and personal awareness than he ever would without it. The coaches are fantastic, the parents are all wonderful, and with multiple locations we always have a gym to train at. The only grandmaster, 9th-degree red belt in Canada — who else do you want to learn from!?
KFKelly FalconerKids BJJ · Maple Ridge
I have 2 daughters aged 6 & 8 in Marcus Soares BJJ and they absolutely love the classes. We mostly attend in Maple Ridge, but sometimes make a Saturday class in Langley. The instruction is top notch, very friendly and accommodating to newcomers. From day 1 they both felt comfortable and supported. Two thumbs up!
NMN MKids BJJ · Maple Ridge
Great place for kids to build self-confidence and discipline. Coaches Marcus, Dana and Nav are fantastic. They foster an awesome environment for kids to grow in the sport.
TSTejinder SandhuKids BJJ · Maple Ridge
We are very fortunate to have the accessibility of a true Master in jiu-jitsu. Marcus' experience comes directly from the roots of this martial art, and his old-school style stands the test of time in competition. Equally important, Marcus loves the friendships built within the schools — we're more than a team, we're a family. With three locations in Maple Ridge, Langley and Vancouver, there is a school near you.
BRBert RietelAdult BJJ · Maple Ridge
Learn to fight like a lion and know what to do in a fight — on the mats and in life! Marcus Soares puts his life and life lessons into teaching incredible techniques to his students in a forever-evolving class. Never faltering. Honour is everything.
DLderek leforteAdult BJJ · Maple Ridge
Getting here
Located in Meadow Ridge Shopping Centre, serving Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Mission and surrounding communities.
Address
11924 207th Street, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 1X7
Parking
Free parking available on-site
Your first step
Try Kids BJJ in Maple Ridge
Join a supportive community where children develop confidence, resilience and real Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills while training alongside some of our most active young competitors. Start with a two-week trial for just $29.