Testimonials

Derek

My girls and I started at Gracie Palm Harbor back in 2019. The initial reason to sign the girls up was for self defense but what we found was so much more. The coaches are very knowledgeable, patient with newer members, and just have a passion for helping students improve. The childrens program is robust and the kids get to have fun while learning skills they can use for the rest of their lives. When it comes to the adult classes, the students and coaches made me feel welcome on my very first day. I also have learned so much over the past 4+ years I have been there. When training at Gracie Palm Harbor, not only will you learn lifetime skills, you will also improve your health, and meet new friends.

Dylan Light

I started training at Gracie Palm Harbor about 4 years ago. The coaches at Gracie Palm Harbor have cultivated an atmosphere based on great instruction that breeds fantastic camaraderie. You will find people ranging from new hobbyists to seasoned competitors all sharing the mats with the same goals of improvement both in and out of the gym. Tony’s coaching has not only greatly improved my Jiu Jitsu game, but also my overall level of fitness. During my time at Gracie Palm Harbor, I have lost about 80 pounds, and hardly even realized it was happening as the classes and training rounds are very enjoyable. I feel like I owe Tony and his coaches more than any review would do justice. If you have been curious about how Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can change your life, you owe it to yourself to drop in and see why Gracie Palm Harbor is such an excellent place to train.

Kelly and Peter

Our children (ages 11, 8 and 8) started taking Jiu Jitsu classes with Coach Tony in August 2014. We knew that it would be good exercise and would teach them to respect themselves and others. What we didn’t understand was what a profound effect it would have on their self-confidence. Our oldest had been bullied in the past and chose to blend in instead of being herself. Jiu Jitsu has given her the confidence to stand out and she has recently competed in her first tournament. We didn’t know if our youngest would ever be able to be involved in a sport. He has Autism and with that comes behavioral and physical issues. He took to Coach Tony right away. The way Coach Tony runs the class is perfect for a child like our son. They start with a game and then do warm ups, etc. It is very structured and kids know what to expect. On top of everything else, Coach Tony truly cares about the kids on and off the mat. He cares about how they are doing in school and how their behavior is at home. He wants these kids to succeed. After a year of training with Coach Tony, I can’t imagine taking my kids anywhere else.

Susan Peticca

When we started at Gracie two years ago, my son was nine years old. He was shy and there wasn’t anything he was interested in. Now as an eleven year old, he not only is he incredibly excited to be a part of a team, he serves as a mentor to younger children just starting out, and is so much more outgoing. He went from hating school to giving his best and making honor roll. This improvement and growth is due in large part to the environment and people at Gracie Palm Harbor. I am very appreciative about the life lessons and values that Coach Tony has taught him and continues to teach him.