Matt & Heidi Thompson 
1st Degree Black Belts

Matt and Heidi Thompson began their Jiu Jitsu journey while they were stationed at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey and looking to learn a martial art. They initially started training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as a means of self-defense under Phil and Ricardo Migliarese black belt Pat Vacanti. Once they finished their military service, they moved to Lawrence in order to be closer to their families. After seeing the positive impact that Jiu Jitsu had on their lives and the lives of others, they decided to begin teaching Jiu Jitsu in their local community.

 

Over the years, as they progressed through the ranks, they have competed in a variety of different competitions both at the local and national level. They enjoy teaching students of all ages, various backgrounds, and differing athletic abilities as they progress along their Jiu Jitsu Journey. They believe that Jiu Jitsu is one of the most effective martial arts a person can learn. Matt and Heidi have worked with We Defy Foundation in support of disabled veterans and Girls in Gis Organization in support of female grapplers. They both currently hold the rank of 1st degree black belt under 4th Degree black belt Nicholas Gregoriades and 3rd Degree black belt Brent Burniston of Subconscious Jiu Jitsu. 

Nicolas Gregoriades 
4th Degree Black Belt,
Subconscious Jiu Jitsu Association Director

Nicolas Gregoriades was the first Jiu Jitsu practitioner to be promoted to black belt by the greatest grappler of all-time, Roger Gracie. Gregoriades is an accomplished competitor and national champion. He has authored two books on Jiu Jitsu, created several instructional videos, and instructed hundreds of seminars. Over the last 20 years he has taught jiu-jitsu to thousands of students all over the world.

Brent Burniston 
3rd Degree Black Belt,
Subconscious Jiu Jitsu Association Founder

Brent Burniston received his Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from the legendary Jean Jacques Machado. As one of Machado’s top black belts and instructors, Brent was often called upon to teach classes at his prestigious academy in Tarzana, CA. Brent’s is known for his innovation, detailed instruction, and endless encyclopedia of technique knowledge. 

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Email: info@groundtheoryjiujitsu.com

1204 E 24th St A105, Lawrence, Kansas 66046

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