Freedom Jiu Jitsu

Freedom Jiu Jitsu is led by owner and head instructor Jeremy Merck, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Steve Bongiorno of South Jersey Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Merck brings over 30 years of martial arts experience as a combat veteran and retired law enforcement officer, combining practical self-defense with competitive BJJ training. The academy also features a diverse coaching staff including Daishi Goto, a black belt with a wrestling background and experience competing at ADCC Worlds, and DeAnna Bennett, a black belt and veteran MMA fighter with UFC and Bellator experience. This depth of expertise shapes the curriculum and training environment at Freedom. Students at Freedom Jiu Jitsu train in both gi and no-gi formats, with classes structured by age and skill level. The kids’ program begins with the Little Warriors class for ages 3-6, focusing on basic jiu-jitsu and wrestling fundamentals, progressing to fundamentals and advanced techniques for ages 7-13. Adults can join fundamentals and self-defense classes as well as open-level gi and no-gi sessions. The academy also offers women’s self-defense classes, which emphasize practical techniques for resisting real-world attacks. Complementary striking arts are available through Muay Thai classes for both youth and adults, rounding out the martial arts experience. Beyond technical training, Freedom Jiu Jitsu supports physical fitness through boot camp and early-morning fitness sessions designed for weight loss, toning, and cardiovascular health. The facility is wheelchair accessible and runs programs that extend to combat veterans coping with disabilities via the We Defy Foundation. The schedule includes drop-in-friendly classes, making the academy accessible to newcomers and visitors. Freedom Jiu Jitsu’s approach reflects a commitment to practical skill development, competitive readiness, and community engagement within the Pilesgrove area.

Amenities