Clinch Academy

Clinch Academy in Frederick, Maryland, is led by Luke Rinehart, a lifelong martial artist and black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Tang Soo Do, and self-defense tactics. Luke has trained since 1983 and built the academy with his wife Caty, who brings both her experience as a blue belt and her background in exercise science and life coaching. The Rinehart family is deeply involved in the academy, with their children Braesen, Bronwyn, and Judah all active as youth coaches and competitors. The coaching staff includes multiple BJJ black belts such as Jason McDonald, Joshua Madison, and Jhondy Fuller, along with UFC veteran Matt Semelsberger guiding the MMA fight team. The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program at Clinch includes structured classes for every stage, starting with BJJ Combatives for self-defense and blue belt basics, and advancing through BJJ Accelerated, which uses task-based games to deepen technical understanding. Both gi and no-gi classes are offered throughout the week, including early morning no-gi sessions and all-levels gi classes at midday. Open mat times are plentiful, giving students regular opportunities to live roll and apply what they’ve learned. The academy also features specialized classes in Krav Maga, kickboxing, MMA, and ClinchFlow fitness, reflecting the cross-training background of the coaches. For younger students, Clinch Academy offers Lil Warrior BJJ for ages 4–6, youth BJJ and self-defense for ages 7–13, and a Saturday youth roll session focused on live drilling and sparring. The curriculum emphasizes both practical self-defense and character development, shaped by the Rineharts’ belief in the “warrior code.” With a long-standing presence in Frederick and programs for every age, the academy is a family-driven school where martial arts and personal growth go hand in hand.

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