. "0"^^ . . "1"^^ . "2017-06-17T00:00:00"^^ . "5"^^ . "2"^^ . "I cannot say enough great things about this place and Professor Hector. I've been around for over a year now and finally got around to writing a long-overdue review. It's worth a read for anyone who wants to learn more about this Academy. \n\nBelow I thoroughly highlight areas worth discussing about the Academy. \n\nKIDS PROGRAM\nProfessor Hector is amazing with the kids, and it shows with the continuous growth in enrollment. Parents rely on him to ensure their child(ren) learn not only the sport, but discipline and hard work. His kids class put in serious work. It's crazy to see how he seamlessly manages 40+/- kids on the mat. He knows just how to handle the kids, regardless of their personalities and ages. Just watch a class, and you will see how much the kids respect Professor and the assistant coaches. \n\nBJJ ALL LEVELS\nThis is the class with mostly adults and some kids/teens. What's interesting is seeing the growth in parents who are now taking part in their children's lifestyle. Couples, too, are joining together. It doesn't matter what belt color or fitness level you're at, Professor will make it work for you. \n\nCOMMUNITY\nIt's a family environment, which means anyone is welcome. Even if you don't practice BJJ and have a family member or partner that does it, you'd still be drawn in. \n\nPROFESSOR HECTOR\nFor someone who sees about 50-100+ people daily, he knows every single member's name, and to me that says a lot about how sincere and passionate he is. He's not just there to do a job. He gets to know you and your weaknesses and strengths and helps you to develop an efficient way of training. During technique drills, he goes around the class and really pays attention to details and will ensure you have the proper form. As a white belt, I think that's important and he helps explain the mechanics/use of the move. \n\nOf significance to me is how accommodating he is -- when I was pregnant, he provided a safe training environment that enabled me to train up until I gave birth. Because I continued to train, I was able to stay flexible and thus had an easy birth. I came back, over a month later, and he continues to encourage and challenge me to get back to a more consistent/hard training. \n\nIn addition to teaching, Professor also makes it a point to impart some words of wisdom or inspiration at the end of class sometimes. It serves to motivate us lest we become complacent. That's the kind of mentor/coach you want; not someone who easily dismisses the class after teaching. He cares--a lot. \n\nMany people look to a leader who's obviously good at what they teach. So whether it's scholastics or sports, we all want to learn from champions, professionals, and highly decorated athletes. There's a difference between being the best at something and being able to teach it. So, one thing to keep is mind is -- \"But how well can they teach?\" Professor Hector exemplifies both the expertise in the sport and in teaching it. So whether you're serious about BJJ or simply want to learn and be part of the community, this is the place to be."^^ . .