Island Jiu Jitsu Michigan

Island Jiu Jitsu Michigan was founded in 2016 by Nick Jones, who became West Michigan’s first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt in 2020 under Jason Vigil, the founder of Island Jiu-Jitsu in Honolulu and a black belt in the Atos lineage. Nick brings a competitor’s mindset to the mats, having tested himself in tournaments across the Midwest and beyond, and has trained with names like Rafa Mendes, André Galvão, and JT Torres. The academy’s approach blends a laid-back, politics-free atmosphere with a strong focus on technical growth and personal development, reflecting both its Hawaiian roots and its Michigan home. The coaching staff at Island Jiu Jitsu Michigan draws from a wide pool of experience. Nick leads a team that includes brown belts Vincent Rennells and Jon Rohn, both with backgrounds in MMA and years of teaching experience. The academy also features coaches dedicated to women’s and kids’ programs, such as Eva Pereda, the first woman at the gym to earn a purple belt, and Carmel Hernandez, who brings competition experience and a passion for youth development. Coaches like Sam Pringle and Matt Jolman round out the staff, each bringing their own training journeys and technical specialties to the mat. Classes at Island Jiu Jitsu Michigan cover fundamentals and advanced work in both gi and no-gi, with dedicated beginner sessions, women’s classes, and regular open mats for adults. Kids’ BJJ is an established part of the schedule, led by instructors who know the value of building confidence and skill from an early age. The academy also hosts visiting world-class instructors for seminars throughout the year, giving students direct access to new techniques and perspectives. Drop-ins are welcome, and the facility is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for visitors and locals alike to experience the academy’s training culture.

Amenities