Instructors

Expert Coaches Dedicated to Your Jiu Jitsu and Self Defence Journey

 

Our instructors bring a wealth of experience and passion to every class at Gracie Gloucester. Each coach has years of dedication in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self defence, with backgrounds that range from competitive experience to specialised training in self defence techniques for real world applications.

 

Our team is here to guide you with personalised attention and professional insight, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.

Lucas Luz

 

Professor Lucas Luz brings over 20 years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expertise to Gracie Gloucester, where he leads as Head Coach with a commitment to excellence and continuous learning. A second-degree black belt under the legendary Rolker Gracie – son of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu founder Helio Gracie – Lucas’ roots run deep in BJJ tradition and excellence. Most recently, he claimed Gold at the 2024 Lisbon Open and is a four-time British BJJ Champion, competing at the highest levels worldwide.

 

Lucas’ journey in BJJ began in his native Brazil at the esteemed Nova Geração Academy under Master Francisco “Toco.” Over the years, he has trained with elite BJJ athletes, including multi-time world champion Celsinho Venicius , and today continues his studies under Master Robin Gracie to stay at the forefront of this evolving martial art.

 

Achievements of Professor Lucas Luz:

  • 2024 Lisbon Open BJJ Champion
  • 2023 No-Gi British Champion
  • 4x British BJJ Champion
  • 2019 British National IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Champion
  • Battle Grappling and Victory Grappling Veteran

 

As the head coach at Gracie Gloucester, Lucas is dedicated to building a thriving BJJ community, empowering students of all levels, and sharing his passion for BJJ as a martial art and way of life . With his deep lineage from Mitsuyo Maeda to Carlos and Helio Gracie, Lucas embodies the spirit of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, teaching self defense, resilience, and discipline to each student who steps onto the mats.

Jacob Sworder

 

Coach Jacob Sworder brings over 15 years of experience in martial arts to Gracie Gloucester, where he applies his deep knowledge and focus on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. A black belt under Professor Lucas Luz, Jacob has extensive experience across multiple disciplines, including judo, boxing, kickboxing, and MMA, and has been training in BJJ since 2008. He joined Gracie Swindon in 2016 as a blue belt, quickly finding his home in the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu community. Since 2018, Jacob has served as an instructor, committed to helping students of all ages and skill levels build confidence and skill in a supportive environment.

 

Achievements of Coach Jacob Sworder:

  • 2022 Bristol Open Champion
  • 2022 Surrey Open BJJ Champion
  • 2023 Victory Grappling Superfight Champion

 

Dedicated to making Jiu-Jitsu accessible and adaptable, Jacob believes in the immense benefits of BJJ for everyone. His coaching philosophy centres on creating a learning experience that is inclusive and focused on each student’s growth both on and off the mats.