Gustavo Dantas Jiu-Jitsu Academy
About
Gustavo Dantas Jiu-Jitsu Academy on East University Drive
Gustavo Dantas Jiu-Jitsu Academy is one of the most decorated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu schools in Arizona and has been a fixture of the Tempe martial arts scene for 25 years, located on East University Drive in the ASU corridor with easy access from Mill Avenue, Mesa, Chandler, and Scottsdale. Professor Gustavo Dantas is a 4th-degree BJJ black belt under Andre Pederneiras (Nova Uniao) with a world-class competition pedigree and academic preparation.
Kids Martial Arts Programs
The kids program splits cleanly by age across two groups:
- Lil & Jr Warriors (ages 5-7): games-based intro to ukemi, frame, posture, and simple positional ideas
- Youth Warriors (ages 8-13): fuller IBJJF-style syllabus
- Takedowns scaled to bodyweight and guard play
- Side control retention and mount escapes
- Early submission chains drilled with strict safety
What's Included
- Professor with nearly 20 years head-instructor experience, published Mental & Life Coach, and Physical Education degree from UFRJ
- ESA-approved: Arizona Empowerment Scholarship funds can be used for tuition
- Adult, women-only, and family-friendly schedule blocks
- Parents can train alongside their children
- Free trial classes and gi rentals for first visits
Experience
The blend of competition pedigree and academic preparation means the curriculum is structured, the technical instruction is at world-class level, and the culture is intentional about character development as much as mat skill. The academy suits families wanting a decorated, ESA-eligible BJJ school in the ASU corridor where parents and kids can train together.