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Disciplines
GiNo-GiSelf-DefenseStrikingWrestling
Classes
Adults ClassesAll LevelsBlack Belt InstructionFundamentalsIntermediateKids ClassesPrivate Lessons
This gym is nothing short of extraordinary—“incredible” doesn’t even begin to capture its essence. The owners, Woolf Barnato and Danny Speirn, are world-class in every sense. Their accomplishments and accolades as competitors are impressive, and their ability to teach complex techniques and concepts to both beginners and advanced students is unmatched. What truly distinguishes them, however, is their genuine kindness and unwavering dedication to their students. They are deeply caring and always eager to share their extensive knowledge of Jiu-Jitsu and grappling.
I came to the gym when I was 19, I was immediately welcomed with warmth and support from Woolf and everyone else at the gym, and at that time in my life, it was exactly what I needed. Their encouragement and guidance have been instrumental in transforming my life and shaping me into the person I am today. I am profoundly grateful for everything this gym has done, and continues to do for me.
You have a free week trail, nothing to lose and everything to gain.
If you come to this gym, it’ll be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.
I am absolutely thrilled to share my experience at Black Sheep! This place is truly exceptional in every aspect.
From the moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted with warmth and a sense of belonging. The owners of the gym are not only incredibly talented in Jiu Jitsu but also exceptionally kind and welcoming. Their passion for the sport is infectious, and it's evident that they genuinely care about the well-being and progress of each and every member.
The instructors at Black Sheep are world-class. Their expertise, dedication, and enthusiasm for teaching are unmatched. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner, they tailor their instruction to meet your individual needs, ensuring that you're constantly learning and improving.
What sets Black Sheep apart is the sense of community that permeates throughout the gym. Everyone, from the owners to the instructors to the members, feels like one big family. The camaraderie and support that exist within the studio create a positive and empowering environment where everyone can thrive.
I cannot recommend Black Sheep highly enough. Whether you're looking to improve your Jiu Jitsu skills, get in shape, or simply be part of an incredible community, this place has it all. It's more than just a gym; it's a home away from home where you'll find camaraderie, encouragement, and endless opportunities for growth.
## Five Stars! Amazing Instruction and Welcoming Community at Black Sheep!
I never thought I'd find a gym where I could train alongside world champions and feel so welcome at the same time. But Black Sheep is exactly that! From the moment I walked in, everyone was friendly and encouraging, regardless of skill level.
The instructors are top-notch, with Woolf, the owner and head instructor, leading the charge. He has an incredible eye for detail and a knack for explaining complex techniques in a way that's easy to understand, even for beginners like me. He pushes you to improve without making you feel overwhelmed, and his passion for Jiu Jitsu is truly contagious.
But what really sets Black Sheep apart is the training partners. I'm fortunate enough to share the mat with multiple world champions who are not only incredibly skilled but also incredibly down-to-earth. They're always willing to answer questions, offer tips, and even roll with you, which is an amazing learning experience. They never make you feel like you're out of place, and their positive energy keeps the training environment fun and motivating.
Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a complete beginner, I highly recommend checking out Black Sheep. You won't find a better place to learn Jiu Jitsu, make friends, and push yourself to your full potential.
**Pros:**
* World-class instructors, including Woolf, the owner and head instructor
* Welcoming and supportive community
* Opportunity to train alongside world champions
* Positive and motivating training environment
**Cons:**
* (Honestly, there are none! I can't recommend this gym enoughe.)
Been with Woolf and Danny since they were teaching in Kentfield with 10 students a few years back. Black sheep has an all level class where they will watch you as you drill every move, critique, and even show you the technique on your partner. Quality rolls.
Classes are about 1.5 hours
- start with warm up for 15 minutes
- drill 3 - 4 moves in sequence
- sparring from a different positions
- 5-7 (6 min) rounds of sparring (rolling) with a new partner every round
Open mat on holidays and Fridays to work those moves not focused on during the week. Bring clean Gi and NoGi uniforms please :)
I've trained at some of the best places in NYC and Boston and this is one of my favorite places to train jiu-jitsu. Woolf is incredibly friendly and welcoming. Kalani teaches an excellent fundamentals class and is so helpful with all skill ranges. I happily drive from Berkeley to train here. I highly recommend this place to both beginners and advanced students.
This is a great gym where you will learn the highest level jiu jitsu. Woolf creates a safe and fun environment to learn and challenge yourself. The space is clean and the people are friendly. Go check it out!
Great training, hidden gem in a great town. I can't speak highly enough about the awesome culture, fantastic training caliber, superb technique and all around good vibes. I'm very glad to have found black sheep and get the honor of training here.
Fantastic gym, world class coaches and really friendly training partners! The gym is clean, people are inviting and coaches Woolf and Danny have great coaching abilities for all levels of Jiu jitsu. They’re accomplished competitors and seem like awesome dudes. I was visiting San Francisco and drove 1.5 hrs to train here with them, would highly recommend!
Friendly environment and the instructors are great at teaching effective techniques. They’re patient and observant. I enjoy learning BJJ with the Blacksheep family!
A smallish BJJ school, tucked away next to the Post Office parking lot.
The students were welcoming and friendly, as were the two co owners. An almost equal mix of young talented female, and male ninjas. The instruction was great, followed by some rolling time. There were no egos on the mats. Drop in fee is $25, I'm used to paying $0 to $20, but it's Marin county. If you want to drop in multiple days, it's pricey.
Coming from a medical back ground, what caught my eye however, were heaps of gi's (not sure if they were clean or dirty, but I assume they're all loaner gi's) thrown into a pile on the mats in a corner, and about 30 or so various belts and gi's hanging on the rack above the mats. There is a single toilet, steps away from the mats, and a small changing stall. This didn't make me confident about the cleanliness of the mat space as I saw people tip towing off the mats, and changing in the toilet. It's so easy to get MRSA (staph), and ringworm, on the mats which are not mopped with disinfectant between classes, and not washing and properly storing loaner gi's and belts. This is easily correctable though.
If you're in San Francisco area looking for a nice BJJ gym, and a beautiful scenic drive from Stinson Beach, look them up.
Everyone there is top notch! If you're new or if you're experienced then this place is for you. High level training in a family friendly atmosphere is a very hard thing to find.
I have trained with World Champion Woolf Barnato and Danny Speirn for years, if you are a fan of the sport and you don't know their names...Don't worry, you will soon. Gianni and Tay Crivello are the kids class instructors and all I can say is that they are some of the nicest guys I have ever met; if they do half as good of a job as Tay did with Gianni, your kids will be something to behold on and off the mat. Black Sheep BJJ, you will not find a better place to thrive.
I've known head instructor Woolf Barnato over 5 years and instructor Danny Speirn over 3 years. Both guys are the nicest you'll ever meet, but they are also the hardest working with the toughest mindset. I know that they will expect a lot from their students, but they will also show kindness and respect. In terms of technique, their records speak for themselves. Woolf, in particular, is one of the top black belts in American and probably top 5 blacks belts from America (most are from Brazil). I wholeheartedly and unreservedly recommend Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu to man, woman, and child. Have fun and train hard!
The technical proficiency of the instructors at this academy is astounding. Woolf and Danny are students of jiujitsu through and through. Their passion for the sport is unparalleled and is evident in their teaching and overall demeanor. My son LOVES the kids classes. Gianni and Tay are awesome and also love what they do. I couldn't be happier with this academy!
Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu has something for everybody. Top notch instruction for begginners and advanced students alike. Fun, productive training for those new to the martial arts, and hard training for competitors.
