Jiu Jitsu provides peace of mind and an escape from everyday stressors in the process. We are the most affordable Jiu Jitsu academy in Copperas Cove as well as the least expensive option in Central Texas! Yet we still provide top-quality instruction! The Absolute Self Defense Academy team continues to prove why our school’s legacy has been built over a decade and counting.
Here at Absolute Self Defense Academy, our staff is the secret to our student success. We are proud to have a team of highly experienced and dedicated instructors who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping our students grow. Each instructor has a rich background in the Jiu Jitsu industry and is eager to train the next generation of martial artists. Meet the team below!
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My coach is James Clingerman who owns and operates the Indiana Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy in Greenwood, Indiana. Due to my location, I train primarily here in town at the Impact Zone, an Atos affiliate owned and operated by Carlos Soto. I started training for MMA in November of 2001 and put on a gi for the first time about a year or a year and a half later.
Whether the desire is there or not is another question. First, you will sacrifice. Time, money, wear and tear on your body, it all weighs into As much as I hate to be cliche, you really can’t cheat the grind. Stay consistent, work hard, and ask questions.
Take privates and ask more questions. Your coach is there for a reason. Use him or her. Cross train. Know when to take time off when you’re physically hurting, and remember it’s not always about training hard. Train smart too! Professor Joel is our 2 degree black belt affiliation. He is a 5x ibjjf masters 3 No gi world champion, Ibjjf masters gi world champion and 7x Pans American Masters 3 No-gi champion.
Having just moved from Hawaii where I was born and raised, I’ve started my Jiu Jitsu career at age 18 (2008).
I began my coaching career as a kid’s assistant instructor at white belt 2nd degree (1 year later) I married my husband (Coach Teddy) and joined the Airforce for 4 years and continued my training on the East coast.
Both I and Teddy have continued to grow our business with love and compassion. I’ve received my Black belt from Professor Joel Blanton in June 2022 and never looked back.
Since I trained in wrestling during high school and had a natural talent for grappling and combat sports.
I really enjoy weight lifting and strongman training. Having injured my back over time and having multiple spine fusions at a young age, I needed an outlet to stay in shape.
I began competing as a white belt and am still active in competitions to include IBJJF and PANS. I also received my black belt in June of 2022. Currently I am the head instructor for the teens and Adult evening classes.
Hello, I’m Alexis, serving as the Absolute Secretary for about three years now.
Alongside my role here, I also teach middle school, which has helped me earn my ESL and bilingual certifications. I’m particularly fond of the camaraderie at the academy. Witnessing students inspire each other to achieve greater heights is truly rewarding.
The academy’s family-like atmosphere, fostering a supportive and encouraging environment for everyone, is something I deeply value. Another aspect of the academy that I find enjoyable is the dedication of the instructional staff. The instructors are highly committed to their students’ education. They go above and beyond to assist, ensuring their students achieve success in the best possible manner
Hello, my name is Marcos Mendoza I have been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for over 4 years and have competed in over ten competitions leading up to my purple belt in the sport.
I started training as a Taekwondo student for over 4 years. Putting me as second degree black and eventually found myself training as a No Gi grappler. Other martial arts like Kickboxing, Boxing, Escrima, and Muay Thai are sports I have trained over the course of my career.
One of my best beliefs as a coach is that each student has potential to succeed in life. As I’ve grown in martial arts, I found a love for teaching students and that love drove me to pursue a career as a teacher.
After my graduation I dedicated time to training and furthering my education. Being at ASDA has strengthened my resolve as an instructor thanks to the warm environment and its strong educational system for grappling. In the school we have a strong focus on technique that fits everyone
My husband and I share a love for martial arts.
When it came time for my son to start his journey, my husband found the Absolute Self-defense Academy. My son started attending then my husband began classes, before you know it I was on the mat too.
I began helping on the mat to repay the great experience we have had to our new extended gym family. I have been able to become a certified instructor and my goal as a coach has been to share the love of the art while building relationships with the students. My journey has taken me from mom in the seats to purple belt on the mats…it’s not over yet but I am looking forward to what’s to come!
Not sure if Absolute Self Defense Academy is for you? Don’t worry. Sign up today and try your first class absolutely FREE!
The We Defy Foundation’s mission is to provide combat veterans coping with military connected disabilities a long term means to overcome their challenges through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and fitness training. Absolute Self Defense Academy is honored to serve as a Training Facility for the We Defy Foundation.
With a rich heritage and unwavering dedication to quality, Habrok strives to set new industry standards by harnessing the latest technologies and design innovations.
This hands-on approach allows us to maintain exceptional standards at every step, ensuring that our customers receive products of unparalleled quality. At Habrok, we believe in supporting the dreams of athletes worldwide by providing them with affordable, high-quality gear. We understand that your journey to success requires unwavering focus, and our mission is to empower you with the tools you need to excel. Our passion is deeply rooted in our commitment to your success, and we are dedicated to fueling your drive, determination, and desire to achieve greatness.
It all started in 2009 with a group of tight-knit college friends when they opened the very first 5 Star Nutrition location in Austin, TX. They spent years keeping each other accountable to their goals and wanted to bring this sense of community & accomplishment to their customers – so they made it their mission.
The “5 Star Fam” as we call them provide the coaching, support & motivation that our customers need to crush their health & fitness goals. Whether you want to put on 10lbs of muscle or lose those last 5lbs, our team is here to provide the guidance and accountability you need.
Mission 22 is a national community supporting active service members, Veterans, and their family members, through three areas of focus:
For active service members, Veterans, and their family members, addressing Post-Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, suicide risk and other challenges.
Uniting civilians and the military community to raise awareness of issues active service members, veterans, and their family members face.
Remembering and honoring service members and Veterans through large scale installations and digital initiatives, while raising awareness for issues faced on home soil.
Through this largely volunteer effort, we continue to make a national impact, and our community is growing every day. We are proud to lead this mission supporting our military, Veterans, and their families.
These coaches and teachers are such spectacular people. They care so deeply about all of their students no matter what age or level they are at. The coaches take the time to show each one the techniques and steps to mastering every skill. Their enthusiasm is contagious and their positivity charges everyone. Definitely join their classes!
Love the variety of classes for my family. They offer great classes for children from 4 years and up. My wife loves the adult classes and it has been a great way for my 4, 6, & 8 year old boys to develop and practice discipline. And their prices are amazing. If you’re new to the Fort Hood area or just interested in Jiu-Jitsu this is the place for you. They have a great testing process and offer the structured classes leading up to testing to enable you to feel confident in moving up stripes and belts.
This is an amazing school, great instructors/coaches. Coach Britt and Coach teddy both have amazing teaching styles and work well with all ages, couldn’t be happier to join this gym and be a part of the family.
This is a great place to learn BJJ. Came in here knowing absolutely nothing about BJJ, and a year later I’m still here and loving every minute of it. This gym is friendly and welcoming to people of all ages and abilities. Coach Britt, Coach Teddy, and Coach Jeff are wonderful instructors. They’re knowledgeable, detailed and always make each class a great experience. My ohana and I are fortunate to be able to train here.
We just love Absolute Self Defense! Both coach Brittany and coach Jeff are AMAZING with young kids. My 4 and 6 year old are always so excited for class. The coaches make new members feel welcomed and included. Their knowledge and willingness to work with each kid on their own level is beyond compare. Even with the multiple options in the area ASD comes out as the number one place to take classes!!!
The superb details that can easily be overlooked are never missed at this academy. They cover a very traditional learning experience that is applicable to all ages. The coaching staff is balanced and thorough with years of experience and training. Stop in to learn or take your experience to a better level.
Absolute Self Defense Academy is the prime spot for family martial arts and family self-defense. We cater to all goals, ages, and skill levels to build a foundation for self-defense. We invite nearby communities including Harker Heights, Killeen, Kempner & Lampasas to join our BJJ classes in Copperas Cove. We’re located in the Copperas Cove Town Square Plaza across the street from Giovanni’s!