TAP Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy

1539 Celanese Rd Suite 103, Rock Hill, SC 29732, USA

5.0 (108 reviews)

Disciplines

Classes

Adults Classes Black Belt Instruction

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

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Join TAP World Class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Rock Hill, SC for top-notch training, instruction, and community. Free trial class available.

https://www.tapbjjacademy.com/

(803) 805-1415

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Class Schedule

Monday 3 classes

15:30 – 16:15 LITTLE Champions kids AGE 5-7

16:30 – 17:15 Champions kids AGE 7-13

17:45 – 18:30 combat Champions kids AGE 8-15

Tuesday 3 classes

15:30 – 16:15 Baby / tiny Champions kids AGE 3-6

16:30 – 17:15 Champions kids AGE 7-13

17:30 – 18:30 BIG Champions kids AGE 9-15

Wednesday 3 classes

15:30 – 16:15 LITTLE Champions kids AGE 5-7

16:30 – 17:15 Champions kids AGE 7-13

17:45 – 18:30 combat Champions kids AGE 8-15

Thursday 3 classes

15:30 – 16:15 Baby / tiny Champions kids AGE 3-6

16:30 – 17:15 Champions kids AGE 7-13

17:30 – 18:30 BIG Champions kids AGE 9-15

Friday 1 classes

17:30 – 18:30 Competition team kids AGE 7-15 All levels

Coaches

Professor Abbi Pontes Owner

Black Belt

Abbi Pontes grew up in South Carolina, began Jiu-Jitsu as a teenager, earned her black belt, and won the IBJJF World Championship. The page says she guides women, young girls, and neurodivergent kids, and lists major achievements including IBJJF World Championship GI, Pan GI, Pan NO-GI, and American Nationals GI/NO-GI.

Professor Thalys Pontes Owner

Black Belt

Raised in the favelas of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil, Thalys Pontes left school around age 11 to work, support his mom, and devote himself to Jiu-Jitsu. The page describes him as a multiple-time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world champion and lists major achievements including IBJJF World Championship GI, Pan American GI, European NO-GI, American Nationals GI/NO-GI, and Pan Pacific GI/NO-GI.

Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at TAP Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.

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Reviews

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Jessie Pugh

TAP is as close to perfect as anything I could ask for in the jiu-jitsu world. It is a very safe and empowering environment. They are very intentional about everything they do from the kids classes to the adults class. Happy to have found TAP!
Posted 1 year ago
gabriel matos

TAP is a top-notch Jiu-Jitsu academy led by distinguished professors who bring exceptional expertise and achievements to the mat. Their innovative teaching methodology ensures every student—from kids to adults—progresses effectively at their own pace. Having trained directly with Thalys in Brazil, I can attest to their excellence, which is why I make TAP my training home during my competitive visits to America. The academy provides a safe, clean, and excellent training environment where a supportive community helps each member thrive, from beginners taking their first steps to aspiring champions pursuing their goals, like myself. I see you guys again soon!
Posted 1 year ago
Guilherme Monteiro

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has been an amazing activity for my son to learn about discipline, respect, and self-defense. But what truly stands out is the incredible dynamic of Thalys and TAP in teaching the kids while maintaining a calm, quiet, organized, and family-friendly environment. Thank you to everyone involved—I highly recommend TAP!
Posted 1 year ago
John Lima

Best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy in Rock Hill
Posted 1 year ago
Susannah Scharpenberg

I've been training at TAP for a while now. It has been the best experience I've ever had in a sport. Professor Thalys and Abbi are wonderful teachers! We learn so much and have a lot of fun. I recommend TAP to anyone!
Posted 1 year ago
Sara L

Professor Thalys is a fantastic teacher of real Brazilian Jiu-jitsu to my 3 year old son. He is very patient and set up a wonderful environment where my child can feel supported and empowered. We are so fortunate to have found him to help us encourage confidence and self improvement for our son!
Posted 1 year ago
Victor Vecchia

I came all the way from Brazil to visit and attend the grand opening of this amazing place, and it was an unforgettable experience! They teach authentic Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with such dedication, showing true commitment to each student on the mat and beyond. I could see the patience, kindness and respect that teachers show to students, especially with students who have special needs, like autism, ADHD and etc. Making everyone feel valued and empowered for life.
Posted 1 year ago
Mello Beez

Thalys and Abby are phenomenal instructors set in an environment that’s family friendly and super respectful. TAP will provide not adults and children with the soft and social skills to be meaningful members of society
Posted 1 year ago
Michelly Rosário

Ambiente MARAVILHOSO. Estamos amando fazer parte dessa família. Thalys e Abby são pessoas incríveis e profissionais realmente capacitados.
Posted 2 years ago
Dustin McNeilly

This is a fantastic school! Thalys and Abby are excellent instructors. They are passionate about jiu jitsu and building the right culture. If you are looking for an environment where you work with your training partners to grow and excel together this is the place.
Posted 2 years ago
Natã Silva

The best class in the country! They are amazing
Posted 2 years ago
lucas lisboa alves

Amazing Place for kids and adults. Perfect environment for kid's development.
Posted 2 years ago
Benjamin Winch

I have had the honor of know Thalys and Abbi for four years. There dedication to the art and passion for teaching people is exceptional. They treat all with respect and welcome all
Posted 2 years ago
Bekhzod Sharopov

The best school around Fort mill, Rock hill, Indian land, Charlotte and beyond. We tried several schools but ended up here in TAP. Kids can learn here real jiu jutsu in right organized protected way. Also You (adult beginners)would train with multiple time world champion couches(there is not many black belt couches train with white belts). Professor Thalys’s couching skill is very impressive and he gives all details about technique. How good they are ? You can watch their tournament fights in You Tube.
Posted 2 years ago
Robert Oda

Amazing place and people! Coach thalys is one of the best person i've ever met. Really professional with everything he does. Congratulations coach Thalys and coach abbi!
Posted 2 years ago
MARIA DO CARMO Aquino Belesa de Oliveira

Great place if u want to start BJJ and bring your Kids
Posted 2 years ago
Jeremy Henderson

I've been training Jiu-Jitsu for 22 years and I would highly recommend anyone who is serious about learning Jiu-Jitsu to join TAP. Not only are Thalys and Abbie world class at Jiu-Jitsu, they actually care about their students and are invested in helping them to achieve their goals on and off the mats. If you're an adult or a parent who wants to get your child involved in Jiu-Jitsu then enroll them at TAP.
Posted 2 years ago
Kelly Brown

We moved here after doing Jiu Jitsu in a different state. I say with all sincerity, Tap is next level compared to other places we’ve been. They focus on technique and a strong core understanding. In our time here so far I have seen no children injured from poor technique. My child has multiple LDs and Auditory Processing disorder. The Professors at Tap have taught her more in 1 month than she learned in the first 4 months of doing Jiu Jitsu. They really want to see these children succeed in all the ways, and I want to see Tap keep growing. Highly recommend. They’re doing such good things here. My child’s favorite things about Tap are: 1. It’s not super loud and they keep calm 2. They get to pick their own nick names 3. Feeling strong 4. Watching teammates get their stripes
Posted 2 years ago
Victoria Little

Great owners and awesome classes!
Posted 2 years ago
Agnon Paterra

O melhor do mundo
Posted 2 years ago
shaun ludwig

TAP is amazing, we would recommend anyone coming here if you are looking to get into BJJ. Both Pofessor Thalys and Coach Abbi know what they are doing and love teaching kids and it shows. The facility is top-notch and very clean. Great job, yall are the true Champions!!! Congrats Professor Thalys on winning the World Championship again for the 4th time!!!!
Posted 2 years ago
Derina Pyles

Best place for World Class Jiu Jitsu in Rock Hill SC. We have been involved in the Jiu Jitsu community for 30 years and we can’t say enough good things about Thalys and Abbi at TAP. They are passionate, caring and offer world class instruction. This is the best thing you can do for your child or family. Stop by and experience for yourself.
Posted 3 years ago
Jimmy Fitzpatrick

I have 2 children that go to this gym , and they love it! It has improved my littlest’s body control as well as confidence. And it has created new friendships for the both of them.
Posted 3 years ago
Carlos Silva

Since I was a white belt, I've followed and been inspired by the overcoming of life that Professor Thalys achieved on and off the mat. This year, with the help of Thalys, some of my biggest dreams came true, which were to come to the United States, train with you guys at TAP World Class BJJ, and win the New Breed Championship belt… I’m going back to Brazil with a heart full of joy, gratitude, and a 100% mission-accomplished feeling. A big thanks for each one of you guys 🙏🏻❤️
Posted 3 years ago
Ethan Weil

I am 15 years old, I have been going to Tap for 6 or more months. Everyone here is extremely supportive, I have never been told that there is a limit to my or anyone else's success. Not only do the coaches at Tap give lessons that apply to the sport, but also to everyday life. It has improved my confidence and comfortably in previously uncomfortable situations. I highly recommend giving it a try whether you are a kid, adult, or especially if you are a teenager like me.
Posted 3 years ago
Braedon Kennedy

You are in very good hands at this gym! Thalys is a very high level teacher, competitor and all around a great guy! Definitely check it out if you're in the area
Posted 3 years ago
Thalison Vitorino Soares

I highly recommend the TAP. Thalys is one of the most dedicated and passionate people I know, you and your family will definitely benefit from his classes in many ways.
Posted 3 years ago
Brett Kostern

I dropped in for a class at TAP academy, run by prof Thalys and his wife Abby. The facility was spotless and very family oriented. Both the instructors have dedicated their life to jujitsu and have accomplishments in the highest BJJ tournaments in all belt levels. I enjoyed how they structured classes adults/kids and guided their students through technique/sparring. I highly recommend if your in the SC area. Looking forward to coming back.
Posted 3 years ago
Pedro Veras

Great environment to learn high quality Brazilian jiu jitsu. Prof. Thalys has a lifetime dedicated to the sport with many accomplishments in all belts including world titles. When we talk about kids program, he knows how to make a children enjoy a BJJ class as he’s super didactical alongside his wife Abbi that is another phenomenal competitor and professor.
Posted 3 years ago
juan p blanco

Champs making champs inside and out side the mats. #professionals
Posted 3 years ago
Heather Tetterton

High level instruction from two of the most talented and explosive competitors in BJJ.
Posted 3 years ago
Kel Fig

Coach Thalys and coach Abbi are the best teachers. They really are true champions. My son loves his coaches and team. All for one one for all time to Shine!!!🙏😊
Posted 3 years ago
Matthew Palmer

TAP is a great place to train Jiu Jitsu. The coaches are the best in the world and are amazing with the kids. No matter what age or skill level you are, Professor Thalys and Coach Abbi make sure you understand the technique. For adults they implement self defense strategies to go along with the technique that is being taught. I love coming to train at TAP because they are my second family! And how often do you get the opportunity to train with the best in the world? This place really is world class!
Posted 4 years ago
Alicatebjj Junior

Amazing School, Very clean, perfect Jiu Jitsu champion's Teaching and very Family skills
Posted 4 years ago
José Elias Bueno de Godoi

A história do professor Thalys é inspiradora, faz com que nos alimente a cada dia ser melhor.
Posted 4 years ago
Mateus akira Heguchi

Experiência top onde se aprende com facilidade ! Muito bom
Posted 4 years ago
Bruno Bononi

If you want to know the pure Jiu Jitsu, TAP is the right place. There you've got Thalys and Abbi, both world class competitors and amazing human beings.
Posted 4 years ago
Bruno Marques

best teachers, excellent training
Posted 4 years ago
L K

Thalys is a world champion in and off the Mats. Great coach and person. If you are looking to accomplish to be better or competing at a high level this is the place to be with your kids or yourself!
Posted 4 years ago
Italo Moura

TAP is a world class school! High level instructors and very friendly
Posted 4 years ago
Pierre Laurent

THALYS is a true champion with the soul of an educator I had the opportunity to share the MAT with him and it's a great experience Passion, experience and the desire to offer high-level training Here's what you can share if you choose to train in his academy TOTAL EXPERIENCE in BJJ !!!
Posted 4 years ago
Jonah Dalton

This place has a really welcoming environment, and the instructor does an amazing job structuring the classes and keeping a reasonable pacing. They make sure you don’t get hurt and it’s a great place to learn Jiu Jitsu for any skill level.
Posted 4 years ago
Nick Kane

Great coaches and training, highly recommended
Posted 4 years ago
Nate Claggett

I was just visiting family in the area, but needed to train for an upcoming tournament. I contacted Tap and spoke with Thalys about stopping by and he was excited to have me join. Their gym is perfect for anyone looking to learn BJJ and the instruction is VERY detail oriented. This type of instruction is hard to come by and is great for "never done BJJ" all the way to black belt. Thalys is an extremely decorated competitor and runs a successful gym with his wife Abbigayle. When in town and needing a roll, I will definitely stop in again. Thank you Tap for having me drop in! Oss!
Posted 4 years ago
Sergio Leão

Excellent teachers and excellent quality jiu jitsu, the best in the region.
Posted 4 years ago
Diego Martins

Perfect for training.
Posted 4 years ago
E R

TAP is hands down one of the best Jiu Jitsu schools that I've been to. Thalys and Abby are amazing coaches and role models for their students. The instruction is top tier as well. Thalys explains the techniques in a simple but effective way without missing any of the small details. The way that he is able to connect everything from the warmups to the technique to even the roll is great. I definitely recommend TAP to anyone who is new to Jiu Jitsu and even experienced practitioners who want to enhance their game.
Posted 4 years ago
Mailson Leal

Amazing place, excelente professors, I love everything there
Posted 4 years ago
Fabio Santos

Muito bom 🙏🏼
Posted 4 years ago
Victoria Helena

Excelente academia Professores maravilhosos e uma estrutura sensacional. Com toda certeza voltarei mais vezes para poder treinar.
Posted 4 years ago
Luis Eduardo

Top
Posted 4 years ago
JoaoZinnXT333

Academia muito boa
Posted 4 years ago
Thii Barros

Great teachers, clean environment and impeccable mat. I love this place, I feel like part of the family. Oss
Posted 4 years ago
Brandon Allen

Abbi and Thalys are not only world class BJJ competitors but also world class coaches! TAP is one of the most welcoming gyms I have ever been to, and you feel like you are a part of something special the moment you walk in the door. Classes are very structured and techniques are broken down into finer details. If you want to learn BJJ and change your life come join the TAP family!
Posted 4 years ago
Brad Johnson

None of the other gyms in the Rock Hill area compare. Thalys and Abbi changed my perspective on bjj after my first class. If you want to become great at bjj and be apart of a nice community go to TAP.
Posted 4 years ago
Misti Shelton

Bringing our sons to TAP was one of the best decisions we have made as a family. Coach Abbi and Coach Thayls are not only fantastic teachers they are also wonderful people. The are both tremendously supportive and encouraging. My boys have learned so much and love going back week after week. I cannot recommend this program enough!
Posted 5 years ago
Craig Hefley

Awesome environment for kids and adults. World class Jiu Jitsu instruction from tremendous role models. What more could you ask for? Lots of classes available. Classes are structured very well. My kids and I love it here.
Posted 5 years ago
Logan Hill

Best place to learn BJJ! Good for all experience levels and the coaches are literally world class competitors. The atmosphere of the gym is very encouraging and conducive to learning. You will meet amazing people and learn the best techniques.
Posted 5 years ago
TA A

Best BJJ in town!
Posted 5 years ago
imperio breton

I really enjoyed my time at TAP, great gym for the family. The professors are very dedicated to their craft and students. Quality training from world class athletes !
Posted 5 years ago
Ryan Tipton

The two coaches have a ton of experience and are very high level in teaching and competing. 3.5 years with them so far. nothing but respect and family attitude
Posted 5 years ago
marcos vinicius maroccolo

What this two young couple are doing is more than just bjj and gold medals, they are giving true confidence and building strong kids physical and mentally to stand up for themselves in this tough world. Thalys has being traveling all around the world learning with the greatest professionals in the sport so he can guide you and your family through this magnificent sport called Jiu Jitsu. Don’t miss the privilege to training and became a true friends of this true champions. Much love and respect to Tap Jiu Jitsu Academy 🙏🏽❤️
Posted 5 years ago
Ayuba Ndiaye

I am a Cicero Costha Black Belt and I’ve trained with Thayls and Abbi (Both are high level adult competitors). These are also two solid human beings that I can vouch for so if you want good Jiu Jitsu, if you want to be around good people who promote a good lifestyle train at Tap World class Jiu Jitsu.
Posted 5 years ago
renato santos

The team is amazing, great people and great jiu jitsu. Certainly taking my entire family to TAP.
Posted 5 years ago
Robert Lax

I came in as a guest from out of town and they were very welcoming. Super nice and very hospitable. Very nice and clean little gym. Great instruction from a very skilled coach. When I find myself in this area again with time to train I will definitely pay them another visit.
Posted 5 years ago
Jonas Andrade7

Really good gym, great atmosphere and amazing people. World Class jiu jitsu you really should come by.
Posted 5 years ago
Edmaicon Moraes

The best gym 👊🏾🥇🥇🥇🥇
Posted 5 years ago
G G

academy has excellent teachers
Posted 5 years ago
R Canuto

If you are looking to get yourself or your kids into martial arts. Look no more these guys are active competitors competing every weekend all over the country and the world. Both Thalys and Abbi grew up on the mats and carry values and lessons that will be able to help you learn such a complex martial art with ease.
Posted 5 years ago
Deivid Bruno

Orgulho de ver algo tão grandioso como essa academia e mais ainda de ver o grande profissional e atleta que vocês se tornaram sonho em um dia ter o prazer de fazer um treinos com vocês Thalys e abbi PONTES osss🥋
Posted 5 years ago
TruExperience

My kids love this place! It is another avenue for them to stay active and interact with other kids. Thalys and Abbigayle are both extremely knowledgeable and patient in their instructions. I have seen big improvements in Jiu-Jitsu skill since starting here!
Posted 5 years ago
derek delima

A welcoming environment in which you can develop yourself by doing what you love with the people that you love!
Posted 5 years ago
Yuri Hendrex

🥋😍
Posted 5 years ago
Bruno Bastos

Thalys & Abbi Pontes are World class Jiu-Jitsu practitioners, instructors and genuinely good people. No better choice to train in this area 🙏🏾🥋🖤
Posted 5 years ago
N B

Thalys is one of the nicest people I’ve met in the sport! He has competed around the world and has a lot of great experience to bring to his students!
Posted 5 years ago
Willian von Söhsten

Thalys and Abby are the best in the game osss
Posted 5 years ago
gabriel matos

THE BEST TEAM
Posted 5 years ago
Thais Gregoldo

Your kids are gonna love it ! The most high quality professionals (and people) to teach you BJJ
Posted 5 years ago
Vinicius Sousa

great techniques and place 10/10 !!
Posted 5 years ago
Victor Zein

The best choice if you want to learn BJJ, make friends and improve your confidence! Kids will love it also!
Posted 5 years ago
Lucas Elias bjj

A melhor! Que Deus sempre abençoe
Posted 5 years ago
Sebastian Rodriguez

One of the best athletes and instructors in the world! Thalys 🙏🏼👊🏼
Posted 5 years ago
BETH PIERCE

Both of my children have trained under Coach Abbi and Coach Thalys since 2018. They have coached them through many competitions and helped them grow their skills in Brazilian Jiujitsu beyond any expectations I have ever had. Many gold medals and swords line their walls thanks to the knowledge and skills Abbi and Thalys share with their students. Their heart and compassion for what they do is amazing and unmatched. Our children are not just another head in the gym. Each child or member that walks through their door is greeted with a smile and a warm welcome because they care about you there. We are so excited to be apart of their new chapter and look forward to many new memories at TAP!!
Posted 5 years ago
Yaribey Pabon

Love the kids program!!! The coaches have such patience and really encourage the kids. Their focus on teaching the fundamentals makes this such a quality program. Highly recommend.
Posted 5 years ago