Voyage Jiu Jitsu

Step onto the mats at Voyage Jiu Jitsu and you’ll find a team-oriented, technically focused environment shaped by seasoned instructors who know every student by name. Head instructor Bill Konkel, a 2nd-degree black belt under Carlos Machado and leader of the GFT Detroit affiliation, brings over 20 years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience to St. Clair Shores. Alongside senior instructor Jason Wilhelmsen—also a Machado black belt—and a dedicated coaching staff, Bill has fostered a training culture where personal growth and technical progression are central. The academy’s roots stretch back to 2015, with a decade of helping students develop from white belt through competition and beyond. Voyage runs a full slate of gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes for adults and kids, with a seven-day schedule that includes morning, afternoon, and evening sessions. Programs span BJJ fundamentals, structured drilling, and dedicated competition classes, as well as wrestling sessions designed specifically to improve grappling for Jiu-Jitsu. Kids’ classes are split into age groups (4–7 and 8–16), supporting young athletes as they build skills and confidence. Sunday open mats and an annual cross-training event with other gyms encourage students to broaden their experience and test their skills in new settings. The curriculum is centered on sport Jiu-Jitsu, with a strong emphasis on technical development and competition readiness—but there’s no expectation that every student compete. The coaches work closely with each grappler to tailor instruction, helping individuals find their own game and reach their long-term potential. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and drop-ins are welcome for most classes. Whether you’re looking to train for tournaments or simply to challenge yourself, the focus at Voyage is on steady growth through honest, hard work and a shared sense of purpose.

Amenities