Calculated from categorized student reviews and profile completeness — instructors, schedule,
facility and pricing — using the data available to us. Manage this academy?
Claim this page to update it.
Disciplines
GiSelf-Defense
Classes
Adults ClassesFundamentals
Facilities
Mat Space
Culture
Welcoming Environment
Access
Free Trial
Community reviews
Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Maracaba BJJ. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
Trained here? Share your experienceBe the first to review Maracaba BJJ and help shape its score.
Continue with Google
I’ve been training with Maracaba since 2015, all the coaches are very knowledgeable and detailed in your training and before you know it you’ve got a second family of friends/training partners. If you are looking to compete or just burn calories and stay in shape this is the place to be, there is a place for everyone!
I can’t say enough good things about this gym, the owner, and coaches! Professor Andre is one of the most knowledgeable and well respected instructors in the state. He is very passionate about this sport and his students, as are the other coaches. I can’t express enough gratitude for Maracaba BJJ and what it has done for my family. My son and husband have both trained here for 5+ years now. It was, by far, the best decision we made for our son, as well as my husband. We initially started our son out in karate, where students were given belt promotions based purely on attendance, and little to nothing to do with skill level. We were floured, as those are not the standards we have set for our children. Not everyone gets a trophy just for showing up. Promotions here are based on hard work, skill, dedication, perseverance, and respect. Nothing is handed to you just for showing up.
Maracaba BJJ is a very welcoming & family friendly gym where I have been training for over 12 years.
That starts from the top down. Professor Andre & all the assistant coaches are always willing to answer your questions.
Professor Andre has a solid curriculum that he teaches yet he continues to innovate.
I recommend anyone to come train @ Maracaba BJJ.
This gym is a fantastic place for bjj. Myself, husband, and two children have all trained through this gym and have had a great experience. Great coaches, community, and teachings. Would highly recommend.
I highly recommend this gym. My son and I both have been training here for almost 5 years now. Andre is the best coach in the business! I will not train anywhere else. Great place, with great people!!
I have been training under Andre with the Maracaba family for more than 12 years. He truly cares about his students and his passion for and knowledge of the art of BJJ is unparalleled in the state. This is not only evidenced by his many, many, State, National and World champion students, but by the reputation and respect he has in the greater Jiu Jitsu community. It was also improtant for me to have my two children experience some of the lessons i had learned there, and their experience training under Andre and his staff was everything i had hoped it would be. The sport is tough, and may not be for everyone, but if you are looking for the best BJJ school in the state, you have found it.
My son has been attending Maracaba BJJ for two years now…starting when he was four. The kids coaches are patient and work closely with the students, even the young kids. This dedication to instruction and learning is attributed to the head Instructor, André Maracaba. He is one of the most knowledgeable and respected coaches in all of BJJ, not just Arizona. Five stars for Maracaba BJJ.
I have been a member of Maracaba BJJ for 6 years now and I can attest that the program Andre has developed is top notch! I have tried multiple gyms before landing here and this gym is by far the most organized, clean, and welcoming. The value that I get from being able to set aside all of my life responsibilities for an hour and share the mats with some of the most amazing people is absolutely priceless. As far as the coaching - Andre has an absolutely incredible attention to detail and actually cares about your improvement in the sport. I’m pretty sure when he’s not coaching Jiu Jitsu he’s just watching Jiu Jitsu videos so he can better coach his students. The man is fully committed and so are the rest of the coaching team.
10/10 Academy with 10/10 coaching
(This review is Part 1 of a 3-part review in response to the inaccurate critique of Maracaba BJJ by Carrick C on November 24, 2023)
My name is Michael Kavanaugh. I’m a brown belt at Maracaba BJJ. My two sons are yellow belts and the top two BJJ students in the Maracaba BJJ kids class. My two sons and I have been training at Maracaba BJJ going on 9 years now. My sons began their jiu jitsu training under the head coach, Andre Maracaba at the ages of 4 and 5 years old. They are now 11 and 13 years old. Both boys have been competing under the Maracaba BJJ banner all 8 years with me not only training and competing, but sitting on the sidelines of the daily grind of those kids classes, observing my son’s progression as well as the teachings and personalities of each and every coach, including the head coach who is being disputed in the review I am replying to.
I carefully read through this 1-star review posted by Carrick C. I would like to offer a perspective from not only a parent who has, “been around for a much longer time”… but also from one who has actually been on the mats training the BJJ discipline, as well as one who was personally involved in some of the criticisms posted with this 1-star review.
1. The critique: “Instances of the gym owner losing his temper and publicly humiliating children in front of both the class and parents have occurred.” I’m aware of this specific episode you brought up with the head coach. It’s unfortunate you didn’t take the time to bring up the incident with the child’s parent. Because that parent was me. It was my 13-year old son… the one who was the yellow-belt and highest ranking student in the Maracaba BJJ kids class who had been consistently acting up in class, disrespecting all of the coaches, as well as not performing those basic drills you are criticizing the school for teaching repetitively. After two weeks of my son goofing off in class and disrespecting the coaches, The head coach under question in the 1-star review contacted me (who had been away with work and unaware) about my son’s behavior. It was me who then had a serious conversation with my son about not only his behavior, but his responsibilities as the top student and one who many of those younger students in a class of sometimes 60 students look up to. It was me, the father, who made this disrespectful son go in to all of the coaches and apologize and explain how he will do better as a student and as an example for those younger students. It was me, the father, who then marched his son over to the parents before the kids class started to apologize to them as well, because he was not being the proper roll model and example for their younger children to look up to and follow on the mats. It was me, the father… who had planned to make his disrespectful son sit out that day on the bench with me and watch the class. But then decided to put my son in class to observe if he would indeed be that “better example” he just promised to the coaches and parents. But my son didn’t have his gi with him. Thus, we rented him a gi from the gym. It was me who made my son wear that white belt for the day and stand at the end of the line to further emphasize that rank is not just about, “performance” and “ability” but also, “attitude” and “respect.”
This parent, Carrick C… knows me, the parent of that yellow belt child who apologized to the parents. Carrick C has attended BJJ parties at our home and has my address as well as contact information. if Carrick C. had taken the time to seek me out, the parent and have this discussion before accusing the head coach, this parent may have gained the true picture of what took place and avoided his misunderstanding of the entire episode.
I’ve been attending my son’s training classes at Maracaba BJJ for going on 9 years now. I have never once seen the head coach, or any other coach publicly humiliating any children in front of the class or parents.
(Continued with part 2 of this 3-part response to Carrick C's inaccurate review of Mara
Maracaba BJJ is simply exceptional! As a parent training with my two children, I have experienced firsthand the professional and amazing staff, and the incredible culture at this academy. The owner and instructors are highly skilled and passionate, creating a nurturing environment where children and adults alike can thrive. The facilities are top-notch, and the sense of community and support among students is truly inspiring. If you're looking for a place to cultivate not only your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills but also lifelong friendships and invaluable life lessons, Maracaba BJJ is the perfect choice.
Maracaba is an amazing family community with top notch coaching and coaches that truly care. I played pro sports for 10 years and the only camaraderie that was even close was my two Super Bowl teams. Maracaba literally saved me from destruction & gave me something to focus on daily. The way the people at the gym carry themselves is infectious. I look forward to being there with top level competition and help from people that want you to be better as a competitor and human being. This is by far the most welcoming place I have ever been and it starts at the top with Coach Andre and His wife Sarah. He treats everyone with such respect and dignity who come through the doors. If you are looking to improve yourself and your family this is the place to be. My kids literally can not wait to go to practice everyday because of the love and instruction at this gym.
Awesome spot to learn BJJ. Andre has a passion a real passion for teaching and for the sport. He has a well structured classes that build on each other. The students are very welcoming and friendly. Sara, Andres wife, takes care of the admin side of things and she is very sweet and will answer any questions you may have. They also offer a week free so you can go and get a feel for it. I've been to several gyms, this one is by far the cleanest!
Professor Andre is a great instructor, along with all the other Coaches! Very family friendly! The benefits are endless. One being it has helped my health personally. I am enjoying the journey! Solid Jujitsu! Recommend for all who want to Roll😎
Amazing place to train. Andre has an incredible passion for coaching BJJ and it shows. Really feels like a family when you’re here. Can’t recommend enough!
Best of the best. I recently moved to Phoenix and had to find a new gym to train. After doing extensive research and trying out several other academies, Maracaba BJJ was the obvious choice. The environment and training quality are top class. I have been here over a year now and I can 200% recommend this place for anyone looking to train jiu jitsu in an enjoyable environment, regardless of level/skill.
I can’t say enough about how incredible Maracaba BJJ is. I signed my kids up initially to give it a go and was immediately impressed with how patient the instructors were and how comfortable they made my kids feel. BJJ can be pretty intimidating, especially to young kids but they do a great job of making it fun while also teaching high quality Jiu Jitsu to them.
It was only a matter of time before I had to try it myself and I had a similar experience. Everyone was very welcoming and eager to pass along the knowledge they had accumulated over the years during their training. You will find out quickly that you are surrounded by people who are happy to help you succeed and grow in your BJJ journey.
This is a direct reflection of Professor Andre and his staff of instructors. If you’re on the fence about giving it a go, I hope you decide to try it. You will be happy you did!
I recently started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and I couldn't be happier with my experience. The instructors are knowledgeable, experienced, and prioritize safety in every class. The training environment is clean, organized, and welcoming. it a great place to meet new people and have fun while
Maracaba BJJ is an outstanding place to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced practitioner, the instruction is tailored for your training needs in the 10am and 5:30pm mixed level classes as well as the 6:30pm fundamental class. Professor André is one of the most intentional and thoughtful instructors out there, and his curriculum and execution everyday as a coach is evidence of that. André Maracaba is also very deliberate about the upkeep of the gym, as it is one of the most (if not the most) cleanly Jiu Jitsu gyms in the valley.
Cameron Chaffee is a phenomenal assistant coach as well, he is constantly learning great habits and evolving as a coach and athlete under professor André on a daily basis.
If you’re seeking a gym to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at any level under a fantastic coaching staff, this is the gym for you.
There is no better gym in all of Arizona, everybody here is so welcoming and kind, and you'll learn a ton about the sport, as I have. If you're a beginner or a long time player you'll have a great time here. And the staff are very understanding and informative. Easily a 5-star rating, there isn't any other gym like this. Thanks Andre!
Absolutely the best! Andre is hands down the best coach I've ever had, after years of sports. He has an intuitive way of teaching, and finds some way to connect with each student when explaining things. The environment is like walking into a family member's home. It is so comfortable and welcoming. If you're on the fence, you just need to try the free week and you'll be hooked. Everyone is there to get better, but to also make you better. Soon after I started, my wife started and is hooked, and she never played a sport before in her life. Try it out. You will not be disappointed.
My son and I both train at Maracaba BJJ. The coaches are top notch and work very well with kids and adults. It is a great sport to enter with my son, it’s strengthened our bond and helped us both gain new friends. Andre is very friendly,knowledgeable, and has a passion for teaching. Highly recommend Maracaba BJJ for kids, adults, and competitors!
After making so many excuses and visiting 4 different BJJ studios, I walked into the studio and felt right at home! This studio was the cleanest out of all of the other studios and it is very well-kept and sanitized. Which to me is very important as we are doing a lot of work on the ground. I was way out of shape and Im still work in progress however, these past few months have been great. I have not felt so alive in a long time!I Im turning 49 this year, 40 lbs over weight but I’m getting myself back in shape. But more important this place has brought so much sanity to my life and mental state of mind! Everyone here is pushing you to become a better version of yourself. The coaches have a gift and love to teach! They are very knowledgeable and encouraging. All of the students are also so encouraging and willing to help out a beginner like myself. Do not make the same mistake I made and waited this long. Take control of your life !
Look no further. I’ve trained at many gyms across the US and this is by far the best gym I’ve ever trained at. It’s rare to find this level of instruction. Most gyms will teach a “move of the day” each day of the week and by the end of the week you’ve forgotten everything. At Maracaba, at the end of each week you are left with a new game that you’ve reviewed multiple times, have answers to possible counters, and can immediately implement into your arsenal. From my observation his students learn at a more rapid pace than other schools I’ve been to. If you want to learn Jiu Jitsu in AZ this is the place
Andre Maracaba is one of the greats. His classes are perfect, his curriculum is flawless, and his students are incredibly skilled and welcoming. Whether you’re brand new to jiu jitsu, or a high level competitor, this is the gym for you.
Went in so my 5 year old could try out BJJ. Instructors were amazing. My child was very confused and timid for at least half the class but the instructor kept working with him and got him to feel comfortable enough to try out some techniques. Before it was all over he was rolling around and having fun with the other kids. He learned some cool stuff at the same time. Will definitely be coming back.
I was down in the Valley of the Sun a few weeks ago for a funeral. A friend of mine lives down there are trains at Maracaba BJJ, so we went in for a class. Professor Maracaba is a great instructor and has created the type of atmosphere you want in a BJJ school. Great talent in the school and great attitudes. If I moved back to the Phoenix area this would be the first school I would go to train at.
From day one I had a great feeling about Maracaba BJJ. When I had my trial day everyone treated me with respect and introduced themselves.
They made me feel right at home. Coach Andre, the owner and head instructor, is an outstanding instructor and his attention to detail is amazing.
I signed up on day 2. I didn't need to try any other place. I knew this was the place for me.
If you are looking for a friendly, competitive, and safe environment to train BJJ with top level martial artists then look no further than Maracaba BJJ.
I found myself walking into Maracaba BJJ trying to recreate myself after going through a nasty divorce. Andre and his wife and team were extremely welcoming. Andre helped me find my confidence again and I won a tournament under his instruction. They provide world class instruction and have an amazing program for adults and children. I always recommend Maracaba BJJ to anyone that is looking to learn or compete in Brazilian Jiu JItsu
Excellent school, on vacation with my family and decided to do a drop in class. Very welcoming friendly environment would highly recommend to anyone looking for a school in around Mesa Arizona.
Thanks again!!
Family friendly environment. There's always somebody who is willing to help. The gym is kept very clean and they have showers. Andre is very dedicated and his instruction/knowledge of jiu jitsu is of the highest quality.
Maracaba BJJ is so much more than the #1 best jujitsu gym in Arizona, it is an extended Family. Our son has been training under Andre Maracaba for nearly ten years, Andrea has personally helped developed our son as an athlete and more importantly as a respectful young adult. If you are considering jujitsu come visit, talk to the parents and kids, watch or attend a class to see for yourself why Maracaba BJJ consistently takes 1st place at tournaments in Arizona, year, after year, after year!
The Maracaba staff is wonderful! My wife and I, and children all enjoy BJJ as a family and love the transformation that has taken place in our lives. So grateful, keep up the good work Maracaba BJJ!
I love Maracaba BJJ. I appreciate the family friendly environment. My kids love learning from Andre Maracaba and the other teachers. It gives me confidence in the Maracaba system when my kids now ask to go to class as often as possible.
Maracaba BJJ is the best BJJ gym in the state and one of the best in the country. Coaches Andre, Clayton and Jake are all amazing and their students performances at state, national and international tournaments is proof.
I have been training w Andre Maracaba for about 8 months. Since enrolling w him Jiu-Jitsu has changed my life. Andre is a dedicated coach, a great friend, & wonderful person. I would (and do) recommend learning Jiu-Jitsu from Andre to anyone. He builds personal relationships with all of his students & always helps them improve on & off the mat.
Daughter Expelled After Sharing Feedback with the Owner.
For parents considering enrolling their children or individuals contemplating becoming students, it's essential to assess not just the teachings but also the behavior and conduct of those in positions of authority. Unpredictable and errative behavior, especially from those seen as mentors or leaders, is something most parents prefer to shield from their children.
While the coaches directly involved in the kids' program display a great attitude and genuine care, the same sentiment cannot be extended towards the gym's owner. Instances of the gym owner losing his temper and publicly humilitiating children in front of both the class and parents have occurred. There is clear evidence of verbal aggression toward tournament staff, resulting in the owner being banned from multiple tournaments - a fact supported by mulitple staff members and adults closely acquainted with the incidents. Personally, I've experienced an unexpected emotional outbust during a tournament and more recently faced insults when providing feedback, leading to my daughter's expulsion.
I recently conveyed concerns I had about the lack of progression in the training. This has been echoed by several other parents. Initially, there was an advanced session for kids with grey belts or higher, focusing on more intricate techniques. Unfortunately, this ceased soon after my daughter joined. During dicussions with an instructor, I highlighted concerns about certain instructions that seemed to lead to kids having a disadvantage while competing in tournaments. Continuous skill development should accompany regular tournament participation.
After sharing this feedback with an instructor, the situation escalated. I was urged to speak with the owner after class, but due to prior commitments, I could not stay. I was approached again and informed that the owner wanted to speak with me on the phone. I was immediately accused of speaking poorly about the gym behind his back to other parents and trying to create a mutiny. That could not be further from the truth. Our conversation turned emotionally charged due to the owners tone, leading to my suggestion that we postpone further discussion. However, this didnt sit well with the owner, who threatened to expel my daughter if I wasn't physically present after class. Even after explaining my availability for a mature phone discussion, my daughter was expelled.
In a subsequent attempt to resolve matters, I reached out to the owner's wife, expressing sadness over my daughter bearing the consequences of the owner's refusal to consider constructive feedback. I offered to meet with them, but the owner declined further dialogue, remaining steadfast in his decision.
Several other parents have relayed a similar experience, finding the owner challenging to receive or discuss feedback and often dismissing others' opinions outright.
Additionally, I've witnessed instances where some students seemingly skipped levels or had irregular attendance yet were promoted, while dedicated students who consistently attended and competed in tournaments were overlooked. These promotions appear to be a way of retaining kids rather than recognizing efforts beyond pure attendance. Recognition for hard work is something all parents hope for their children, and this discrepancy is disheartening. It seems the gym prioritizes attracting newcomers rather than nurturing and advancing the skills of long-standing students, potentially contributing to the high turnover in the kids' classes. Complaints from parents about repetitive and unchallenging material year after year further substantiate this observation.
While the coaching staff remains commendable, the owner's unpredictability, as evidenced by the aforementioned incidents and overall disorganization of the business, raises concerns about the gym's environment. Teaching discipline is commendable; however, ridicule and verbal or emotional aggression to this extent is not a positive means to teach discipline to children in this environment.
