About Us

Renzo Gracie Orlando is a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy founded in 2018 by Pat Cooligan. Located in the heart of Orlando, Florida, our academy is committed to providing world-class BJJ training to students of all ages and skill levels. At Renzo Gracie Orlando, we pride ourselves on our strong community and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn self-defense, a hobbyist seeking a new way to stay fit, or a competitor aiming to refine your skills, our experienced instructors guide you every step of the way.

Our curriculum is rooted in the rich tradition and philosophy of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing technique, discipline, and respect. Under the leadership of Pat Cooligan, a seasoned black belt, our academy offers a variety of classes tailored to meet the needs of children, teens, and adults.

We are proud to have Senior Instructor Adam Gignac, whose expertise and dedication to teaching have made a significant impact on our students’ progress and success. Adam brings a wealth of experience and a passion for the art that inspires everyone on the mat.

Additionally, we are honored to have a world-class competitor Andre Porfirio is part of our instructor team. Andre’s competitive accolades and dynamic teaching style give our students unparalleled insights and techniques, elevating their training to the next level.

One of our unique achievements is nurturing the talent of Renzo Cooligan, the number-ranked Juvenile 1 competitor in the world. Renzo’s dedication, hard work, and exceptional skills exemplify the high standards and supportive environment we strive to maintain at our academy.

Embark on a journey of personal growth and transformation at Renzo Gracie Orlando. Join our supportive community, united by a passion for Jiu-Jitsu and a commitment to individual progress. Experience the transformative power of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a safe, positive, and empowering environment. Discover the unique blend of physical and mental discipline that BJJ offers and how it can shape you into a stronger, more confident individual. Click here to start your journey.

See What Our Members Say

Browse through the reviews to get a glimpse of the Renzo Gracie Jiu Jitsu of Northern Valley experience straight from our community.

5.0
Based on 34 reviews
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Michael Feltham
01:36 16 Jul 24
The school is Amazing. I've learned a lot in two years. The classes are tough but fun. Everyone learns from that incredible teachers but also learn from all of the other students.
Joshua Kwilecki
17:17 08 Jul 24
For one looking to train jiu jitsu at any level, then I wouldn’t want to train anywhere else. In the world of martial arts gyms, whereas many will offer multiple disciplines of martial arts while sacrificing the quality of teaching and learning techniques, RGNV is the complete opposite. Carl Massaro and his staff of professors/coaches maintain the utmost professionalism while teaching, coming from the most highly regarded lineages of jiu jitsu. The gym attracts great quality people and every single encounter I’ve had with anyone who has stepped foot inside of the gym has been positive. Deciding to train here at RGNV has been one of the greatest personal decisions I’ve made in my adult life. Highly recommend!
christopher cardoza
00:27 08 Jul 24
I joined RGNV as an upper belt, after a two-year hiatus. Students and instructors alike were welcoming and genuinely supportive of my return to training. Professor Carl Massaro, the academy's owner and head instructor, brings a wealth of expertise and pedigree to the table. His attention to detail and commitment to each student's progress are evident in every class. In addition to professor Carl, the other professors all bring a unique perspective and set of technical skills to the mat. This is a great place to train.
Chris Nanartowich
13:35 07 Jul 24
This gym is amazing. Everyone there is extremely welcoming and friendly. Every class you can guarantee you will get the help you need from the instructors and the higher belts to make sure you understand whats going on. All the fear and nervousness I had on the first day went away instantly and now i cant wait to get to the next class. I recommend this place to everyone.
Justin Marrotte
17:11 05 Jul 24
This week will be my 13th year at this time establishment and I can confirm with total confidence there is no finer place to train. The level or training and teamwork involved is second to none. Although people begin jiu jitsu for many, many different reasons, we all share the common goal of learning the “gentle art” and becoming very technical and efficient practitioners. I am grateful that I made the decision to join Professor Carl Massaro and the Renzo Gracie Northern Valley Team! The environment and talent is excellent and exceptional.
Chana Smolanoff
23:09 04 Jun 24
My experience here at Renzo Gracie Northern Valley has been nothing short of transformative. The head instructor Professor Carl, has a unique knowledge of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. His expertise and dedication to the craft are evident in every class. He breaks down complex techniques into understandable steps and ensures that each student, regardless of their skill level, can grasp the intricacies of jiu jitsu.

One of the most remarkable aspects of RGNV is the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. From the moment you step through the door, you are greeted with warmth and encouragement. The community here is genuinely supportive, and the culture fostered within the academy makes it clear that making mistakes is part of the learning process. There’s no judgment, only guidance and a shared commitment to improvement.

My journey at RGNV has significantly impacted my life, instilling in me immense self discipline and strength, both physically and mentally.

RGNV is more than just a place to train; it’s a community that teaches growth, resilience, and respect along with the martial art of jiu jitsu. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this academy will provide you with the skills, confidence, and community support you need to thrive in BJJ. I cannot recommend RGNV highly enough.
Joon Chang
22:00 04 Jun 24
Over the last 10 years, I've been to many BJJ gyms and Renzo Gracie Northern Valley is by far my favorite place to train.

Professor Carl, who has experience learning from and rolling with the best in the world, is one of the most technical black belts I've ever been around.

The culture of the gym is also outstanding. It's an environment where egos are left at the door and people train to learn and help each other.
Nicholas Stefanidis
21:52 04 Jun 24
I can’t say enough good things about this jiu jitsu school. The level of teaching is simply amazing – the instructors are highly skilled, patient, and genuinely invested in each student’s progress. The environment is friendly, safe, and enjoyable, making it a perfect place for both beginners and advanced practitioners. Whether you’re looking to improve your technique, get in shape, or just have fun, this school has it all. Highly recommended!
Jackie Cheraso
00:57 25 Apr 24
I started doing yoga almost two months ago and its now something I look forward to weekly. I had never done yoga prior so I was not sure what to expect. Krystal is the most amazing yoga instructor. She truly encourages and supports every student in class based on their individual needs and her voice is so calming which helps way more than you would think. They offer a variety of different traditional yoga practices which is great! Adam is on the BJJ side of the studio and is always smiling when I see him! They make an awesome team!
Correy Nuttall
16:29 23 Mar 24
Of all the yoga classes I've taken, Krystal's stands out as the best! The studio's ambiance is inviting and beautiful. Krystal's expertise, kindness, and warmth make each session absolutely amazing. Highly recommended!!
Laura Nuttall
16:09 19 Mar 24
Had an INCREDIBLE jiujitsu class!
Adam and Krystal run such an amazing and welcoming academy with so many class options for both jiujitsu and yoga! The facility is absolutely stunning, so clean, accessible and centrally located! Will be back again very soon!
Rolles Cooligan
15:21 18 Feb 24
Great jiujitsu, They have an awesome bjj program and bjj kids program and nice relaxing yoga classes! This place is for everyone and it’s super awesome!
AJ Ahmed
18:36 12 Dec 23
Extremely welcoming and insightful staff. Highly recommend!
Joel Robledo
18:42 24 Jun 22
Best gym in Orlando! From my own experience, this is the best gym I have ever had the pleasure of going to. They have classes for adults, children, as well as for different levels from beginners to advanced. The schedule is also very flexible offering 3 classes through out the day. The instructors there are all high level competitors respectively and bring their wealth of knowledge and skills to the table for their classes. They are super friendly and genuinely care about the students who attend. The classes are relatively small as well so you will have plenty of opportunities to ask questions, get personal help from your instructors and also have some amazing team mates who are outstanding! This gym is top notch! The facility is very clean and well sanitized, so no staph or nasty rashes. They offer awesome children's classes and the instructors are amazing , they are very patient and keep the little ones engaged. I am very grateful for this gym and highly recommend it to anybody considering it. If you want a awesome environment to train in and lose weight this is the spot. I lost about 15lbs in my first month. If you want to build confidence and learning practical self defense this is the gym for you. If you are a competitor and want to sharpen or hone your skills this gym is also for you. They have things for every level and never comprise the family friendly environment like some big gyms. Thank you Pat, Ramiro, Malena, Fran. I can't wait to come back and train with you all again.

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