Owners: David and Annie Iturrino
Martial Art: BJJ, MMA, Judo, Personal Fitness, Bootcamp, Boxing
How did you choose your school name?
As the first established Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school in Lake County, FL, we chose the name of the city that provided us the first opportunity.
How long have you been teaching?
Professor David has been teaching martial arts for 20 years, Professor Annie has been teaching for 10 years.
What is your student creed or mission statement?
The Community. People shouldn't have to sacrifice personal safety for less time with their children or families just to pay the high-dollar costs of learning a life skill such as Self-Defense.
Who or what inspires you?
Our inspiration comes from our family, and our faith leading people to a healthier lifestyle for themselves and their families.
What is something special or unique about your school and/or students?
Three years ago we saw a need for children in our community to have somewhere to train. These kids come from all walks of life, some have never been able to participate in any sport. So we developed Grappling For Life, Inc. 501(c)-(3) non-profit. The program allows children of all ages, and races to train at a reduced cost. They have an opportunity to have mentors, tutors, and meals if needed. The program now has approx 45 students.
What made you choose FUJI Mats for your facility?
We started our business 7 years ago with FUJI, we still have a section of mats that were from the day we opened.
What is the most rewarding part about working in the martial arts field?
Seeing our students grow. This is both on the mat and off the mat. The students are not just students to us, they are our FAMILY.
If you could give one piece of advice to other martial art school owners what would it be?
"Treat every student as an individual. Not everyone trains or learns the same. Always be respectful, and set boundaries. STAY HUMBLE! "
ABOUT THE SCHOOL:
Our studio is 9000 sq ft, with just under 6500 sq ft of open mat area. We are the only family-owned/operated faith-based Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy in the area. All classes are taught under the direction of BJJ First Degree Black Belt David Iturrino, and BJJ Black Belt Annie Iturrino.
Professor David started training in martial arts are the age of 4 in New York. He achieved a 5th-degree black belt in Goju Karate and started cross-training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He found his passion through BJJ and was promoted to black belt under Professor Todd Cutler of Fight Sports. He was awarded his first degree from Professor Eduardo Brigadeiro of Brigadeiro Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu! He continues to train, and compete as much a possible.
Professor Annie was a drill instructor with the local Sheriff's office where she mentored the youth and helped with local karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments. She also found the passion of training and received her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black belt from Professor Eduardo Brigadeiro & Professor David Iturrino. She is also a certified group and personal trainer.
Most importantly he and his wife help lead others to Christ through their academy.
The academy provides training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, no-gi grappling, Kickboxing, boxing, MMA, wrestling, and women's only classes. We have certified personal / group fitness trainers who provide all level of fitness training.
