Gracie Barra Bryan Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense

Gracie Barra Bryan Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense is shaped by the work of Professor Amanda Sakaya and Coach Daniel Stelzreide, who personally oversee the academy’s daily training and culture. Amanda, originally from Minas Gerais, Brazil, began training at age seven and went on to build a competitive career with Gracie Barra before moving to the U.S. in 2018. Together with Daniel—who combines a background in personal training with years of jiu-jitsu experience—they founded the school in 2021, moving it to Bryan in 2025 to better serve the local community. Their approach draws on more than 20 years of combined experience, blending Brazilian competition roots with a hands-on, owner-led environment. Classes at Gracie Barra Bryan follow the structured, gi-centered curriculum of the global Gracie Barra system, with options for every age group. Young children start in Tiny Champs (ages 3–4), progressing through Little Champs and Juniors programs that emphasize body coordination, discipline, and anti-bullying skills. Teens and adults can join fundamentals or advanced classes, with a separate entry-level women’s class designed to build confidence and foundational skill before transitioning into the broader program. For those interested in striking, head coach Justin Escobar—a local MMA professional—leads kickboxing classes for kids and adults, integrating practical self-defense and fitness. Private training is available for students seeking focused, one-on-one attention in either jiu-jitsu or kickboxing. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and the academy’s growth reflects its strong local roots and the commitment of its instructor team. Gracie Barra Bryan maintains the core values and technical standards of its lineage, but its identity is defined by the coaches who built the school from the ground up in Bryan, Texas.

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