Manasota Jiu Jitsu

Manasota Jiu Jitsu in Sarasota is built around a teaching structure that emphasizes both fundamentals and progression, with a focus on tailoring instruction to each student’s goals. The academy runs classes every day, splitting time between traditional gi, no-gi, and specialized fundamentals sessions. Head instructor and co-owner Clayton Lyon leads the majority of classes and oversees the day-to-day operations, bringing active competition experience in both gi and no-gi formats to his teaching. The coaching staff draws from a range of backgrounds. Travis Hart, co-owner, is known for his pressure passing and leads Thursday night no-gi classes. Professor Pat McDonald, a World and Pan-Am champion, teaches daytime no-gi and joins for open mats. Lisa Lyon, the academy’s first female black belt, runs the Wednesday fundamentals class and is also an assistant principal in the local school district. The kids’ program is co-led by Clayton and Coach Chris “Chachi” Baguette, who emphasizes effort and resilience in younger students. Manasota offers a wide range of adult classes, including gi, no-gi, and open mat sessions, with drop-ins welcome. Kids’ classes are a regular part of the schedule, and the facility is wheelchair accessible. The academy’s approach is centered on respect, individualized attention, and maintaining a clean, safe environment for all ages and experience levels.

Amenities