Carlson Gracie Team San Diego

"Professor Rafa is one of a kind. He is very systematic in his teachings, he is technical yet does not over load you with information. He has so much knowledge that he has a complete grasp of advance techniques yet does not compromise foundation. Having said these. What I like about Prof Rafa the most is his approach to the tradition of the art. Turning around when fixing Gi, waiting for the instructor to let you in when you’re late, and the emphasis on higher belts to be more responsible as they climb up the ranks. Respect the coaches and professors. These are the qualities that make good people."

"Training at Carlson Gracie Team San Diego in El Cajon has been awesome! Stepping into a new gym can seem like a daunting experience but Professor Rafael, Coach Patrick, and the rest of the students at Carlson Gracie made me feel welcomed and part of the team right off the bat. What I appreciate most about training under Professor Rafael is learning how to apply the principles of jiu-jitsu to every day life. Professor Rafael heavily emphasizes the importance of hard-work, dedication, and mental toughness during every training session; principles that can be applied to every day life. Not only will you improve on the mat here at Carlson Gracie, you will improve off the mat as well!"

"Professor Rafa and Coach Patrick have put together a welcoming gym with high quality instruction. The gym is clean and the training partners are not out to hurt one another, but build each other up. If you want to develop your skills in jiu jitsu and make connections with some amazing people, then please sign up."

"I have really enjoyed learning from Professor Rafa and Coach Patrick. As a brand new white belt, and as a woman, it can be intimidating finding the right fit. Professor Rafa helps you to understand the why behind techniques and is detailed in his teachings. I've learned so much and felt like the environment professor creates is welcoming and safe. You won't feel like you're just getting chucked out onto the mat with no idea what to do."

"I started working under Professor Rafael and his assistant coach Patrick after being at the school I was at for 6 months. I'm 67 years old and was struggling to keep up with everyone. Professor Rafael notices his students while he is teaching and weaves in things that help them as he teaches. His assistant Patrick would greet me when I came to class with , "I've been thinking about your Jiu Jitsu and have a suggestion for you". In 6 weeks Professor Rafael improved my game considerably with a great blend of drilling basics and a focus on mat time in actual practice. Professor Rafael noticed my breathing was off and gave me great direction in the area of breathing that has also improved my ability to keep up with much younger students. And make no mistake, even with all this consideration, care and concern, Professor Rafael doesn't play. He pushes us too so we are always moving to a new limit within ourselves. It would be hard to imagine my training without Professor Rafael and Patrick."