Central Oahu BJJ Academy

Central Oahu BJJ Academy in Wahiawa is owned and operated by Ryan and Noel Kauanui, both black belts under Ryron and Rener Gracie. Ryan began his jiu-jitsu journey as a white belt at this very academy in 2008, working his way through instruction from respected names like Marcelo "Dentinho" Steenhagen and Kai "Borg" Garcia before earning his black belt from the Gracie University founders. Noel’s path started in the Women Empowered® program, and she became the second Gracie University Certified Instructor in Hawaii, receiving her black belt from Ryron and Rener in 2025. Both Ryan and Noel are certified to teach the full suite of Gracie University programs, including Gracie Combatives®, Gracie Bullyproof®, Women Empowered®, and Master Cycle®. The academy follows the traditional Gracie Jiu-Jitsu curriculum, with structured gi-based training for both adults and children. Adults can progress through Gracie Combatives® for fundamentals and Master Cycle® for advanced techniques, while kids are grouped by age (5–7 and 8–12) and taught through the Gracie Bullyproof® system. The teaching team includes several certified instructors, such as Derrick Stanfield (black belt), Kanani Oliveira-Blas, and Cara Petty, each with their own journey through the Gracie University instructor certification process. The focus is on self-defense, technical progression, and clear fundamentals, in line with the Gracie University philosophy. Classes run throughout the week, including early morning and evening options, making it possible for a wide range of schedules. The academy also welcomes drop-in students for open mat and regular classes. Central Oahu BJJ remains closely tied to Wahiawa, with instructors who are deeply invested in both the local area and the Gracie lineage.

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