Instructors
World-class instruction, a structured curriculum, and a welcoming environment for every level.
Cristian da Costa
Born in Manaus, Brazil, Professor Cristian is a dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor with 7 years of experience. He holds a black belt under Professor Cristiano Ribeiro (6th-degree black belt), his father and mentor.
Professor Cristian has competed in numerous tournaments and has a deep passion for teaching. Specializing in both gi and no-gi, he focuses on fostering a positive learning environment where students of all levels can grow in skill, discipline, and confidence.
Ara Kim
Ara has trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over 13 years and has spent the last 4 years teaching as a per diem coach in both Massachusetts and Wisconsin. Her martial arts background also includes 10 years of Taekwondo and 4 years of MMA training in Korea.
Ara specializes in adapting techniques to each individual’s physical abilities through thoughtful performance analysis and detail-oriented instruction. She believes that self-control, consistency, and finding joy in training are the most effective paths to long-term success on and off the mats.
Japeth Flores-Franco
Japeth blends his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expertise with a knack for mechanics and culinary arts. A reliable substitute in both gi and no-gi, he’s instrumental in fine-tuning techniques and pushing partners to excel. Off the mat, Japeth’s skill set extends to repairing cars, renovating homes, and training dogs. His commitment to community and his all-around abilities make him an invaluable asset to our team.
Taylor Hartman
Taylor is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt with over 18 years of experience across BJJ and MMA. He has competed and won in expert-level divisions, earning titles as a NAGA Heavyweight Champion, two-time Grappling Industries Absolute Champion, and Fuji Champion.
In addition to his grappling accomplishments, Taylor brings extensive professional MMA experience, holding a 5–2 record and earning Professional Fight of the Year (2012, Minnesota) honors, along with four Submission of the Night awards and one Fight of the Night. His coaching blends high-level technical detail with real-world application, helping students develop effective, pressure-tested jiu-jitsu.