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Disciplines
GiMMA
Classes
Adults ClassesAll LevelsKids ClassesOpen Mat
Facilities
Mat Space
Culture
Welcoming Environment
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Ground Control Academy is a beginner friendly jiu jitsu and martial arts gym located in Sherwood Park with classes for kids and adults.
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Community reviews
Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Ground Control Academy Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
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We couldn't be happier with Ground Control Academy! My girl has been training here for the last month and she absolutely loves it. The coaches are patient, encouraging, and genuinely care about every kid on the mat. The atmosphere is welcoming, safe, and fun, and you can tell the whole team puts their heart into it. Huge thanks to Coach Devin and everyone at GCA. Highly recommend to any parent looking for a great program for their kids!
Coach Deven has a great outlook. My boys have been getting confident and working hard. Coach is focused on what I hoped: discipline, character, resilience and the good of the group. I’ve started training there, in the adult class (at 49!)
Great, welcoming gym with top
Notch coaching that really nails learning the fundamentals. Definitely recommend giving GCA a shot for anyone looking to get in ju jitsu. Great community environment as well.
Ground Control Academy offers a wide range of class times throughout the week for both adults and children. As a shift worker and parent of homeschooled kids, the schedule flexibility is what makes it possible for our family to train together in this challenging sport. A great academy like this doesn't just happen - behind it is a great coach, family, and community.
Our family couldn't be more grateful for Ground Control. My son has been training here for the past three years, and the positive impact on his life has been incredible.
Not only has he thrived in his Jiu-Jitsu skills, but we’ve seen a complete transformation in his overall confidence, his daily life, and his schoolwork. He absolutely loves going to class and has made so many valued, lasting friendships along the way.
The coaching staff is truly exceptional, especially Coach Deven and Coach Annika. They are hands-on, positive, and set firm, clear expectations while remaining deeply invested in every student. You can tell they genuinely care about seeing each child grow into a capable, confident childen who will thrive in all aspects of their life.
If you are looking for a martial arts academy that builds character, community, and real skills, I highly recommend GCA! It truly is a family!
Ground Control Academy is hands down one of the best places for young athletes to grow, both on and off the mat.
Coach Deven has built an exceptional environment that warmly welcomes youth of any age or experience level. Whether a child is stepping onto the mats for the first time or training as a seasoned athlete, Coach Deven’s strong, adaptable coaching methods ensure every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.
What truly sets Coach Deven apart is his holistic approach to mentorship. He doesn't just teach techniques; he instills a deep understanding of discipline, perseverance, and self-control. Through clear boundaries, positive reinforcement, and high standards, he helps kids build a solid foundation of physical skill and personal character.
Beyond individual growth, the sense of community at Ground Control Academy is incredible. Coach Deven fosters a supportive, tight-knit culture where students cheer for each other’s successes and learn from their setbacks together. If you're looking for a martial arts academy that delivers top-tier instruction while shaping disciplined, confident young people, Ground Control Academy is second to none.
Ground Control Academy has a very welcoming and positive atmosphere, especially for beginners. Coach Deven is an excellent teacher who is kind and amazing with kids. I was so glad to find an instructor that we felt comfortable with and he runs classes that are orderly and safe, but also fun!
It’s been almost 2 years since my boys started jiu jitsu and it’s the most valuable sport/activity they have been involved in. For my son with ADHD, being in class is sometimes the only time of the week that he is completely focused. They have gained so much practical skill, fitness, confidence, and self-discipline. I highly recommend this gym.
We’ve had such an incredible experience at Ground Control Academy. Deven is truly amazing with the kids. He’s patient, encouraging, and has such a natural ability to build their confidence while teaching discipline, teamwork, and respect. It genuinely feels like he was made to do this. Both of our boys absolutely love going, and we’re so grateful to have found such a positive and supportive community. We can’t recommend Ground Control Academy enough!
Ground Control Academy is an amazing place to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. My son started training there and quickly fell in love with it. He has built great friendships and enjoys every class. The atmosphere is welcoming, positive, and supportive for both kids and adults.
The coaching from Devin and Annika is outstanding. They encourage students to challenge themselves while keeping the focus on learning, improvement, and having fun. Their support for every athlete is second to none.
Watching my son have so much fun inspired me to join as well. I've met so many wonderful parents and people through GCA, and I genuinely look forward to every class. Ground Control Academy has become much more than a gym for our family. It's a community, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
