black belt 2nd degree

Felipe began practising Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1999, training under Master Toti Jordan “Pitoco” and Paulo Nardy. Guided by these mentors from his very first class, he progressed through every belt all the way to black.

He represents the Infight Team, one of the most traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teams in Brazil, carrying a lineage that stems directly from the Gracie Family. Felipe’s master grew up alongside the Gracies and began Jiu-Jitsu with them in 1971, preserving the original foundations and spirit of the art that Felipe continues to honour today.

Felipe began competing in 2000. While he still steps onto the mats from time to time, his purpose has evolved. His focus now lies in deepening his studies, refining his understanding of Jiu-Jitsu, and teaching adults and children to help secure the future of the sport.

Driven by a lifelong passion for Jiu-Jitsu, Felipe is committed to constantly elevating the standards of teaching and sharing knowledge with clarity, detail and purpose. For adults, his mission goes beyond training, he aims to support individuals, strengthen the local community, and build a culture rooted in respect, connection, discipline and shared growth.

He believes Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art. It’s a tool to help people in life to build strong values, nurture resilience, inspire confidence, and shape the character of the next generation. 

His work with children is grounded in raising strong young people through the principles of martial arts , leadership, discipline, respect, humility, perseverance, hard work, resilience, being humble and kind while still confident.

Above all, Felipe is dedicated to creating a safe, humble and welcoming environment where everyone can train, feel supported, belong, and enjoy the journey of Jiu-Jitsu. His core values remain simple and strong: community, integrity, excellence, and a commitment to using Jiu-Jitsu as a force for good both on and far beyond the mats.

black belt

Syb was first introduced to BJJ in 2002 in Brazil and began training in 2008. He continued to train BJJ once returning to Australia. In 2017 he received his black belt.

"In my classes, I prioritize quality over quantity, fostering an environment where students can cultivate their unique games based on their physical attributes, athleticism, and personality. Strong fundamentals serve as the cornerstone of each student’s journey, enabling them to evolve and progress in their own unique way."

syb takes our adults no gi and kids self defence classes.

black belt

Jayke first began training under Felipe Balladi as a blue belt. receiving his black belt in 2023.

While competing occasionally in no gi super fights, jayke is now focused on building his skillset through martial arts including may thai, mma, wresting and no gi Jiu Jitsu.

jayke teaches our adults no gi classes.

brown belt

Rex started training in boxing at the age of 5 with his father who was a former NZ Professional boxing champion. At the age of 16, he started to train Muay Thai and had his first fight at 17 years of age. After winning multiple Welterweight World Titles and a solid fight career of 55 fights across New Zealand, Thailand and Australia Rex retired and moved into coaching fighters in all disciplines. Rex is currently a brown belt and loves passing on his experience to anyone keen to learn.

black belt

Raina started training under Felipe Balladi and has received all her belts under him.

She has won 3x worlds masters as well as multiple international and states competitions.

Raina teaches our adults and kids classes.

brown belt

noe began training under felipe Balladi 5 years ago and received all his coloured belts under him.

competing in many sports throughout his life he is passionate about martial arts and how it can shape an individual beyond the mats.

he currently holds multiple national and states titles.

noe teaches our adults and kids classes.

we have many instructors on hand.

each kids classes has a minimum of 4-5 coaches so that our little ones get the attention and guidance they require.