Gulf Coast Jiu-Jitsu Testimonials

“Jiu-Jitsu is empowerment. It’s the power to make your opponents weak, and transform your own vulnerabilities into strengths. An absolute life skill- completely turns the tables. Training is dynamic and fun. As an instructor, Corey is such an inspiration. Amazingly, not only does he encourage you to get into the best shape of your life, he motivates you to be the absolute best version of yourself!” -Melanie McCall

“Jiu Jitsu has always intrigued me. Ever since the first UFC, I have been fascinated by the skill, strategy and art of the Gracie tradition. It has always been, to me, different than all other martial arts; and I have enjoyed watching those who embody in their practice what the name “Jiu Jitsu” actually means – a gentle art.
So, after I got up the nerve to give it a shot myself, I searched for a teacher and academy that embodied what I had come to respect and love about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I found that in Corey Richardson at Gulf Coast Jiu Jitsu. Corey’s commitment to simplicity, core paradigms, and solid foundations is what makes this academy so special. It is also what separates GCJJ from so many other academies. It is what gives me hope, as a student, that I can actually do this.
Being almost 40 years old and having a rather large family, I am was looking for a place where I could train safely while learning to protect myself and others (should I ever need to). I was looking for a teacher who was committed to the paradoxical practice of gently subduing an opponent. I was looking for an academy where these principles were embodied, not only by the instructor, but also by the students. After training off and on for almost a year, I have yet to leave a session disappointed.
Every student is kind, motivated, and dedicated to getting better. But what I love about GCJJ, is that every student is genuinely committed to seeing and helping the other students get better. Corey is a world class instructor and a good man. Gulf Coast Jiu Jitsu is great environment for kids and anyone who wants to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I would and have already recommend this wonderful academy to anyone remotely interested in learning this “gentle art.” I’ll never forget the kindness and professionalism I received when I made the first call and when I attended my first class. I leave every class thankful that I can train at such a great academy.” -Scott Moore

“You can put a price tag on self defense and Jiu-Jitsu, but there is another side of Jiu-Jitsu when you get your life changed and meet new people and become a part of a family that is priceless. Take me for example. Jiu-Jitsu saved my life. Without it I think I wouldn’t be half of the person I am today. I started Jiu-Jitsu the middle of my freshman year of high school because I was tired of getting picked on in school and not having any friends. So I just looked up Jiu-Jitsu on the internet and thought it sounded cool. I knew nothing at all about it. Then I met Kim, Alexa, and Corey, A.K.A. The Man! I instantly felt like I was in the cool kids club. Corey and the whole squad broke me down and built me up into a better person that understands respect, humbleness, and being aware of your surroundings. I now feel confident about myself and wake up every morning knowing I’m blessed. I used to weigh 215 pounds and I wanted a change so I used Jiu-Jitsu to make that change. I’m 178 pounds now, and I’ve never felt better. That strive I had to change myself for the better of me put new motivation in my life. I’m now a caring person, and nice person who is friends with everyone at school all thanks to Jiu-Jitsu and Corey and all my training buddies that gave that little bit of push everyone needs! Thanks to Jiu-Jitsu and Corey and all of the Gulf Coast Jiu Jitsu family, I now have a new head on my shoulders and I know that I can protect myself from anyone that wants to mess with me.” -Ryan McKenna

“Corey’s mastery and understanding of the art is only surpassed by his dedication to teach it to others. I’m so thankful to have worked up the nerve to walk in to Gulf Coast Jiu Jitsu at age 42. There is no looking back, only looking forward to this wonderful journey of self discovery.” -Brad Fleming

“Training Gracie Jiu-Jitsu at Gulf Coast Jiu Jitsu is the most fun and useful form of exercise I’ve ever participated in! It’s a huge confidence booster and a stress reliever!” –Alexa Roberts

“Jiu-Jitsu is challenging both mentally and physically. It is a mental chess match with your opponent. Physically I have been able to do things I would not have thought possible.” –Michelle Proulx

“I have had the luxury of training with Corey almost every day for well over a year now. After training for years off and on with different intstuctors I can tell you the difference in what Corey teaches is night and day…Gulf Coast Jiu-Jiutsu teaches pure Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. The attention to detail, the strategy, and the focus of what Corey teaches me goes further than the mat…it goes in to every aspect of my life. I have found the best instructor who has exceeded every expectation.” –Paul White

“I joined Gulf Coast Jiu-Jitsu to lose weight and learn Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. After completeing the first three weeks of training, my core strength has increased, my body composition is improving, and I feel much better overall. Corey keeps the sessions challenging yet fun with a great dela of personal attention.” –James Parker

“Corey is an extremely talented and patient instructor who strives to improve and enhance not only his students’ Jiu-Jitsu techniques, but also their lives. The environment he has created at the academy is both professional and relaxing. It’s a place to escape from all your worries and focus on having fun learning and practicing Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and interacting with your Gulf Coast Jiu Jitsu family.” –Kim Williams