Bull City Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Bull City Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Durham is led by head instructor Kim Rice, a black belt under Jason Culbreth. Kim brings more than a decade of experience to the mats, having started her jiu-jitsu journey in 2010 and earning world titles at both the adult and masters levels, along with an Abu Dhabi silver medal. Her belief that jiu-jitsu is first and foremost a self-defense system shapes the academy’s approach, with a special focus on making the art accessible—especially for women. Kim’s husband, Jason Mask, also a black belt under Jason Culbreth, serves as co-owner and instructor. As a US Navy veteran and firefighter, Jason emphasizes the value of BJJ for emergency services personnel. The teaching team includes Derek Langston, a black belt with a background in multiple martial arts, and Mike Depetrillo, who guides the fundamentals program. The academy’s class structure reflects its practical philosophy. Adult students can train in gi fundamentals, daytime and night classes, focused competition training, and no-gi rolling sessions. There’s an early-morning “Dawn Patrol” for those looking to fit training into a busy schedule, and a “Grappling Lab” for skill development. Kids’ classes are taught by Frannie Nilsen, a purple belt with a background in children’s yoga and youth leadership, and wrestling is offered under coach Logan Perkins, who brings experience from both jiu-jitsu and scholastic wrestling. Bull City BJJ maintains a straightforward set of academy rules to keep training safe and productive. Students are expected to show up on time, wear clean uniforms, and contribute to mat cleaning. The school is located above the Mattress Factory on Shannon Road, with wheelchair access. Drop-ins are welcome for most classes, and parents who train are invited to help with kids’ sessions by arrangement.

Amenities