ABOUT US

GET TO KNOW US

WE'RE ALL ABOUT POSITIVE VIBES

At Ave Maria Jiujitsu, we pride ourselves on being more than just a team—we are a close-knit family. With over 20 years of combined experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, primarily honed through Renzo Gracie academies along Florida’s southeastern coast, we offer a deep reservoir of knowledge and dedication to our craft.

Our mission is to provide world-class Jiu-Jitsu training to all our members, from children to adults. We focus on cultivating discipline and structure to build confidence, a sense of community, and practical self-defense skills while promoting overall health and fitness. Whether you’re an experienced practitioner or just beginning your journey, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive environment here.

Our coaches are more than instructors—they are real people with families, committed to guiding you on your path to growth and success. At Ave Maria Jiujitsu, you’re not just joining a gym; you’re becoming part of a family that’s here to support you every step of the way.

OUR COACHING TEAM

MEET OUR COACHES

Kenny Costa

OWNER/FOUNDER OF AVE MARIA JIUJITSU

Coach Kenny brings over 12 years of dedicated training under the Renzo Gracie umbrella to Ave Maria Jiujitsu. His journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began at Renzo Gracie Weston, and he continues to train under the esteemed Professor Santos Caban at Renzo Gracie Lake Worth. Kenny's commitment is so profound that he regularly travels across Florida’s coasts to pursue his passion.

In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kenny made a bold move to Ave Maria. At the time, there were no local Jiu-Jitsu options, and the nearest academy was over an hour away. Driven by his vision and determination, he was dedicated to bringing this incredible art to our town, and he is overjoyed to share his passion with Ave Maria.

Beyond his impressive skills as a practitioner, Kenny is a devoted husband and father of three. His children have been training with him since they were toddlers, and they now train alongside him at Ave Maria Jiujitsu. Kenny’s ability to break down complex techniques into easily understandable concepts, combined with his engaging and structured approach, makes him a standout coach. He has a unique talent for connecting with students of all ages, especially creating a positive and motivating environment for all.

Jason Kurek

OWNER/CO-FOUNDER OF AVE MARIA JIUJITSU

Legend has it, deep in the Everglades, a top-secret lab once combined the DNA of a grappler and a grizzly to create @The_Jiu_Jitsu_Bear.... or as we know him, Coach Jason.

Jason has trained in various martial arts throughout his life, with the last decade dedicated to Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. He started under the Lloyd Irvin banner before finding his home with Renzo Gracie, where he earned his purple belt. Today, alongside Coach Kenny, Jason trains under the acclaimed Professor Santos Caban at Renzo Gracie Lake Worth.

During the pandemic, Jason and Kenny met and began training Jiu-Jitsu in local garages, eventually teaming up to bring this noble art to the Ave Maria community, Jason strives to create a fun, creative training environment with dynamic warm-ups and innovative drilling methods. Always willing to be the uke (the person receiving the technique in Jiu-Jitsu demonstrations), Jason supports students by offering encouragement and helping them refine their skills.

Outside the gym, Jason is a proud father and grandfather, especially when he sees his children on the mats. He has spent over 20 years giving back to Collier County through leadership roles in nonprofits like the Boys & Girls Club, The Education Foundation of Collier County-Champions For Learning, and now Charity for Change. He also currently serves executive committees for community organizations, including the Rotary Club of Ave Maria and the Association of Fundraising Professionals Collier-Lee Chapter. Additionally, Jason has volunteered for causes like the Harry Chapin Food Bank, Naples Church, the American Cancer Society, and more.

Dr. Ariel Hernandez, QS, LMHC, NCC

KIDS AND WOMENS SELF DEFENSE COACH

Ariel has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for eight years. Four years ago, she relocated to Ave Maria, where she connected with Coach Kenny and Coach Jason while training in their garages, as there was no dedicated Jiu-Jitsu gym in the area. Together, they shared a vision to establish Jiu-Jitsu in the community.

Despite not having a sports background during her childhood, Ariel discovered her passion for Jiu-Jitsu and has dedicated herself to the art ever since. Her hard work and commitment have earned her the rank of purple belt.

In addition to her achievements in Jiu-Jitsu, Ariel is a full-time working mother of two and a psychologist and counseling professor. She specializes in individual and couples counseling, as well as research and education. Remarkably, she obtained her doctorate while managing her professional responsibilities and training.

Ariel’s diverse experience and unwavering dedication enrich our gym community, and she is enthusiastic about helping others experience the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu.

HEAR WHAT OUR MEMBERS HAVE TO SAY:

"We were at a crossroads with our son. He was being bullied at school, and we were considering homeschooling as a solution. Desperate to find a way to help him build confidence and stand up for himself, we decided to give Ave Maria Jiu-Jitsu a try. We are so grateful that we did. Since joining, our son has transformed in ways we never imagined. Not only has he gained incredible self-esteem and confidence, but he’s also no longer a target for bullies. The skills and discipline he’s learned on the mats have translated into remarkable improvements in his academics and social life. He is thriving both in and out of the gym, and we owe it all to the supportive environment and expert training at Ave Maria Jiu-Jitsu. We can't thank Coach Kenny enough for making such a positive impact on our son's life."

~ Mike & Lisa

"When I first enrolled my son in Jiu-Jitsu at Ave Maria Jiujitsu, I was primarily focused on the mental and physical health benefits it could provide him. Little did I know that it would lead to a personal transformation for me as well. After watching his progress and the incredible energy of the classes, I decided to jump in and try the adult class myself. It’s been a game-changer. Not only have I lost weight and gained a clearer mind, but the best part is the bond I now share with my son. We have something special to connect over in our free time, and it has brought us closer together. The positive impact on both of our lives has been profound, and I’m grateful to Ave Maria Jiu-Jitsu for this amazing experience."