Clever Combat BJJ & MMA

Clever Combat BJJ & MMA has become a mainstay for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts in Latham, led by owner and head instructor Bill Schwartz. Bill began his BJJ journey in 2003 under Victor McLeod and earned his black belt from Julio Ceaser Fernandez Nunes during a training camp in Rio de Janeiro. With over two decades of experience and a background in education and coaching youth, Bill has built a team that includes black belts Jeff Hart, Adrian Uribe, and Benji Anastasio—each bringing their own history of competition, teaching, and deep lineage in Jiu-Jitsu. The coaching staff’s roots trace to respected names like Daniel Moraes and Gracie Humaita, giving the academy a strong technical foundation and a clear sense of tradition. Training at Clever Combat centers on both gi and no-gi BJJ, with a full schedule split between adult fundamentals, intermediate, and advanced classes. Dedicated youth programs, such as Youth Gi and Youth Grappling Games, give kids structured opportunities to develop their skills and confidence. For adults, the curriculum includes classic gi Jiu-Jitsu, no-gi rounds, takedown sessions, and an open mat for extra sparring or technical work. The academy also offers striking, MMA, and conditioning, all under one roof—allowing students to cross-train in Muay Thai, boxing, and mixed martial arts alongside their Jiu-Jitsu practice. Clever Combat welcomes drop-ins and maintains a practical approach to training, reflected in its mix of structured instruction and open mat time. The facility serves not just Latham but also grapplers coming from Albany, Troy, and the surrounding areas. With a longstanding group of coaches and students who have trained together for years, the academy is rooted in the idea that anyone—regardless of background or ability—should have access to quality martial arts.

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