Chris Ruddick

I went to several local schools in the area looking for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes. I felt that none of them could offer the expertise, atmosphere and convenience of Tidewater Academy. Jonathan and Dan foster a safe, fun and competitive learning environment. The training features a great blend of technical instruction and live competition. I look forward to training at Tidewater Academy for years to come.

Kenny Mills

Fire Fighter

This is a great school. The instructors are very skilled and not afraid to work the basics no matter how long it takes for you to get it. I’ve been in martial arts my whole life, since I was 6, and now I’m 26. I’m a 3rd degree black belt in tae-kwon-do and this school has showed me that no matter how good you are, standing up you will never control your opponent. I commend this place to all ages and skill levels.

I began training with the Tidewater Academy in August 2009 and have had an exceptional experience with them. First, the level of instruction is unparalleled in comparison to the other schools I have experienced. Jonathan’s knowledge of Jiu Jitsu is astounding, yet he has the ability to break the moves down for a beginner while still providing the level of instruction needed for advanced students. Additionally, the co-instructor Dan, Jonathan’s first student, assists and teaches many of the classes and he provides the same level of instruction, and is a testament of Jonathan’s teaching ability. On top of the instruction that the Tidewater Academy provides, the members of the school provide a competitive, yet cooperative environment to train. If you are looking for a place to train in the Hampton Roads area, I highly recommend the Tidewater Academy.