Our Team

  • Felipe Balladi

    black belt 3RD degree

    Felipe began practising Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1999, training under Master Toti Jordan “Pitoco” and Paulo Nardy. Guided by these mentors from his very first class, he progressed through every belt all the way to black.

    He represents the Infight Team, one of the most traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teams in Brazil, carrying a lineage that stems directly from the Gracie Family. Felipe’s master grew up alongside the Gracies and began Jiu-Jitsu with them in 1971, preserving the original foundations and spirit of the art that Felipe continues to honour today.

    Felipe began competing in 2000. While he still steps onto the mats from time to time, his purpose has evolved. His focus now lies in deepening his studies, refining his understanding of Jiu-Jitsu, and teaching adults and children to help secure the future of the sport.

    Driven by a lifelong passion for Jiu-Jitsu, Felipe is committed to constantly elevating the standards of teaching and sharing knowledge with clarity, detail and purpose. For adults, his mission goes beyond training, he aims to support individuals, strengthen the local community, and build a culture rooted in respect, connection, discipline and shared growth.

    He believes Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art. It’s a tool to help people in life to build strong values, nurture resilience, inspire confidence, and shape the character of the next generation. 

    His work with children is grounded in raising strong young people through the principles of martial arts , leadership, discipline, respect, humility, perseverance, hard work, resilience, being humble and kind while still confident.

    Above all, Felipe is dedicated to creating a safe, humble and welcoming environment where everyone can train, feel supported, belong, and enjoy the journey of Jiu-Jitsu. His core values remain simple and strong: community, integrity, excellence, and a commitment to using Jiu-Jitsu as a force for good both on and far beyond the mats.

  • Raina Lonczar

    black belt

    Raina started training under Felipe Balladi and has received all her belts under him.

    She has won 3x worlds masters as well as multiple international and states competitions.

    Raina teaches our adults and kids classes.

  • ROMULO DI NICOLO

    brown belt

    Romulo has been training under Professor Felipe Balladi since his blue belt, and from the very beginning he’s had a passion for helping and teaching kids and adults alike.

    In recent years, Romulo lived in North Stradbroke Island, where he introduced Jiu Jitsu to the local community and helped it grow.

    Romulo takes our adults and kids.

  • kids instructors

    we have many instructors on hand.

    each kids classes has a minimum of 4-5 coaches so that our little ones get the attention and guidance they require.