BLACK SHEEP

BLACK SHEEP

BLACK SHEEP

JIU JITSU ACADEMY

JIU JITSU ACADEMY

JIU JITSU ACADEMY

What is Black Sheep?

We are Marin County’s best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy. You can find us tucked away in Fairfax, CA.

Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu is owned and operated by Ralph Gracie black belt and world champion Woolf Barnato. As well as pan am & world medalist Danny Speirn. Two decorated competitors who have dedicated their lives to the study and instruction of Jiu Jitsu.

Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu is the product of many years of an open-minded, creative approach to Jiu Jitsu that blends strong fundamentals with new-school technique. The techniques taught here are competition tested and proven effective, a benefit of learning from active competitors.

We offer world class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and self defense instruction to kids, teens and adults of all levels, in a friendly, comfortable environment.

Why Jiu Jitsu?

Jiu jitsu offers a unique path to reaching your full potential. It's not just about self-defense, though that's certainly a valuable benefit. The practice builds your strength, flexibility, and endurance, while also sharpening your focus and determination. It fosters a sense of community and accomplishment, pushing you to overcome challenges and discover depths of resilience you never knew you had. By integrating physical and mental growth, jiu jitsu empowers you to become the strongest, most capable version of yourself, both on and off the mat.

What is Black Sheep?

We are Marin County’s best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy. You can find us tucked away in Fairfax, CA.

Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu is owned and operated by Ralph Gracie black belt and world champion Woolf Barnato. As well as pan am & world medalist Danny Speirn. Two decorated competitors who have dedicated their lives to the study and instruction of Jiu Jitsu.

Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu is the product of many years of an open-minded, creative approach to Jiu Jitsu that blends strong fundamentals with new-school technique. The techniques taught here are competition tested and proven effective, a benefit of learning from active competitors.

We offer world class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and self defense instruction to kids, teens and adults of all levels, in a friendly, comfortable environment.

Why Jiu Jitsu?

Jiu jitsu offers a unique path to reaching your full potential. It's not just about self-defense, though that's certainly a valuable benefit. The practice builds your strength, flexibility, and endurance, while also sharpening your focus and determination. It fosters a sense of community and accomplishment, pushing you to overcome challenges and discover depths of resilience you never knew you had. By integrating physical and mental growth, jiu jitsu empowers you to become the strongest, most capable version of yourself, both on and off the mat.

What is Black Sheep?

We are Marin County’s best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy. You can find us tucked away in Fairfax, CA.

Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu is owned and operated by Ralph Gracie black belt and world champion Woolf Barnato. As well as pan am & world medalist Danny Speirn. Two decorated competitors who have dedicated their lives to the study and instruction of Jiu Jitsu.


Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu is the product of many years of an open-minded, creative approach to Jiu Jitsu that blends strong fundamentals with new-school technique. The techniques taught here are competition tested and proven effective, a benefit of learning from active competitors.

We offer world class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and self defense instruction to kids, teens and adults of all levels, in a friendly, comfortable environment.

Why Jiu Jitsu?

Jiu jitsu offers a unique path to reaching your full potential. It's not just about self-defense, though that's certainly a valuable benefit. The practice builds your strength, flexibility, and endurance, while also sharpening your focus and determination. It fosters a sense of community and accomplishment, pushing you to overcome challenges and discover depths of resilience you never knew you had. By integrating physical and mental growth, jiu jitsu empowers you to become the strongest, most capable version of yourself, both on and off the mat.

Instructors

Take your jiu jitsu journey to the next level under the guidance of world champions. Our instructors, not only decorated competitors, but also passionate educators, will share their competition-tested techniques and years of experience, helping you unlock your potential and achieve your goals in a supportive and friendly environment.

Instructors

Take your jiu jitsu journey to the next level under the guidance of world champions. Our instructors, not only decorated competitors, but also passionate educators, will share their competition-tested techniques and years of experience, helping you unlock your potential and achieve your goals in a supportive and friendly environment.

Programs

Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the basics or an experienced practitioner refining your technique, our programs have you covered. We blend creativity and competition-tested wisdom, providing the perfect environment for learning Jiu Jitsu and getting in incredible shape. Our kids’ program aims to give students a clear advantage over their peers by instilling practical skills both on and off the mat. We wholeheartedly believe in the benefits of Jiu Jitsu for children and want to share it with our community.

Adults

Fundamentals

This program is ideal for those new to Jiu Jitsu. Classes are intentionally short and slow-paced, ensuring you won’t feel fatigued or overwhelmed by the techniques. Our curriculum follows a rotating three-month block system, covering essential areas such as closed guard (top and bottom), half guard (top and bottom), and pinning offense along with corresponding escapes.

Duration

60 mins

Class consists of

5 min warm up

40 mins of instruction, drilling, and positional sparring

15 mins of optional free sparring

Instructors

Kalani Brabo

Niko Duffy

David Strand

Intermediate

Our Intermediate Jiu Jitsu Program is tailored for practitioners with at least three months of experience. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or passionate about the art, this is the program for you.

Duration

90 mins

Class consists of

10 min warm up

10 mins of takedown drilling

20 mins of technique instruction and drilling

10 mins of positional sparring

40 mins of open sparring

Instructors

Woolf Barnato

Danny Speirn

Cole Franson

Lauren Sacks

Kids

5-7 years old

For our 5-7 year-olds, character-building is our primary focus. We instill discipline, focus, respect, and self-confidence in our young students. Additionally, we lay the groundwork for core positions and techniques that they’ll use every day on their Jiu Jitsu journey.

Duration

45 mins

Class consists of

10 min warm up

15 mins of instruction and drilling

10 mins of controlled sparring

10 mins of games and other fun activities

Instructors

Woolf Barnato

Jon Kraus

Pat Benstead

8-12 years old

For our 8-12 year-olds, character-building remains paramount. We reinforce discipline, focus, respect, and self-confidence. At this stage, Jiu Jitsu technique—especially core aspects—is meticulously refined. Students begin shaping their unique game as martial artists and athletes. They gain tactical and strategic insights, evolving into amazing sparring partners with the opportunity to compete at local tournaments.

Duration

60 mins

Class consists of

10 min warm up

20 mins of instruction

30 mins of sparring

Instructors

Woolf Barnato

Jon Kraus

Pat Benstead

Programs

Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the basics or an experienced practitioner refining your technique, our programs have you covered. We blend creativity and competition-tested wisdom, providing the perfect environment for learning Jiu Jitsu and getting in incredible shape. Our kids’ program aims to give students a clear advantage over their peers by instilling practical skills both on and off the mat. We wholeheartedly believe in the benefits of Jiu Jitsu for children and want to share it with our community.

Adults

Fundamentals

This program is ideal for those new to Jiu Jitsu. Classes are intentionally short and slow-paced, ensuring you won’t feel fatigued or overwhelmed by the techniques. Our curriculum follows a rotating three-month block system, covering essential areas such as closed guard (top and bottom), half guard (top and bottom), and pinning offense along with corresponding escapes.

Duration

60 mins

Class consists of

5 min warm up

40 mins of instruction, drilling, and positional sparring

15 mins of optional free sparring

Instructors

Kalani Brabo

Niko Duffy

David Strand

Intermediate

Our Intermediate Jiu Jitsu Program is tailored for practitioners with at least three months of experience. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or passionate about the art, this is the program for you.

Duration

90 mins

Class consists of

10 min warm up

10 mins of takedown drilling

20 mins of technique instruction and drilling

10 mins of positional sparring

40 mins of open sparring

Instructors

Woolf Barnato

Danny Speirn

Cole Franson

Lauren Sacks

Kids

5-7 years old

For our 5-7 year-olds, character-building is our primary focus. We instill discipline, focus, respect, and self-confidence in our young students. Additionally, we lay the groundwork for core positions and techniques that they’ll use every day on their Jiu Jitsu journey.

Duration

45 mins

Class consists of

10 min warm up

15 mins of instruction and drilling

10 mins of controlled sparring

10 mins of games and other fun activities

Instructors

Woolf Barnato

Jon Kraus

Pat Benstead

8-12 years old

For our 8-12 year-olds, character-building remains paramount. We reinforce discipline, focus, respect, and self-confidence. At this stage, Jiu Jitsu technique—especially core aspects—is meticulously refined. Students begin shaping their unique game as martial artists and athletes. They gain tactical and strategic insights, evolving into amazing sparring partners with the opportunity to compete at local tournaments.

Duration

60 mins

Class consists of

10 min warm up

20 mins of instruction

30 mins of sparring

Instructors

Woolf Barnato

Jon Kraus

Pat Benstead

Programs

Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the basics or an experienced practitioner refining your technique, our programs have you covered. We blend creativity and competition-tested wisdom, providing the perfect environment for learning Jiu Jitsu and getting in incredible shape. Our kids’ program aims to give students a clear advantage over their peers by instilling practical skills both on and off the mat. We wholeheartedly believe in the benefits of Jiu Jitsu for children and want to share it with our community.

Adults

Fundamentals

This program is ideal for those new to Jiu Jitsu. Classes are intentionally short and slow-paced, ensuring you won’t feel fatigued or overwhelmed by the techniques. Our curriculum follows a rotating three-month block system, covering essential areas such as closed guard (top and bottom), half guard (top and bottom), and pinning offense along with corresponding escapes.

Duration

60 mins

Class consists of

5 min warm up

40 mins of instruction, drilling, and positional sparring

15 mins of optional free sparring

Instructors

Kalani Brabo

Niko Duffy

David Strand

Intermediate

Our Intermediate Jiu Jitsu Program is tailored for practitioners with at least three months of experience. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or passionate about the art, this is the program for you.

Duration

90 mins

Class consists of

10 min warm up

10 mins of takedown drilling

20 mins of technique instruction and drilling

10 mins of positional sparring

40 mins of open sparring

Instructors

Woolf Barnato

Danny Speirn

Cole Franson

Lauren Sacks

Kids

5-7 years old

For our 5-7 year-olds, character-building is our primary focus. We instill discipline, focus, respect, and self-confidence in our young students. Additionally, we lay the groundwork for core positions and techniques that they’ll use every day on their Jiu Jitsu journey.

Duration

45 mins

Class consists of

10 min warm up

15 mins of instruction and drilling

10 mins of controlled sparring

10 mins of games and other fun activities

Instructors

Woolf Barnato

Jon Kraus

Pat Benstead

8-12 years old

For our 8-12 year-olds, character-building remains paramount. We reinforce discipline, focus, respect, and self-confidence. At this stage, Jiu Jitsu technique—especially core aspects—is meticulously refined. Students begin shaping their unique game as martial artists and athletes. They gain tactical and strategic insights, evolving into amazing sparring partners with the opportunity to compete at local tournaments.

Duration

60 mins

Class consists of

10 min warm up

20 mins of instruction

30 mins of sparring

Instructors

Woolf Barnato

Jon Kraus

Pat Benstead

Schedule

Monday & Wednesday

Time

7:00 AM

12:00 PM

3:30 PM

4:15 PM

5:30 PM

7:00 PM

Class

Beginner

Intermediate

Kids 5-7

Kids 7+

No Gi

Beginner

Tuesday & Thursday

Time

12:00 PM

4:15 PM

5:30 PM

7:00 PM

Class

Intermediate

Kids 7+

All levels

Beginner

Friday

Time

7:00 AM

12:00 PM

3:30 PM

4:15 PM

5:30 PM

Class

Beginner

Intermediate

Kids 5-7

Kids 7+

Women's class

Saturday

Time

9:00 AM

10:00 AM

Class

Kids 7+

Intermediate

Sunday

Time

10:00 AM

Class

Takedowns

Schedule

Monday & Wednesday

Time

7:00 AM

12:00 PM

3:30 PM

4:15 PM

5:30 PM

7:00 PM

Class

Beginner

Intermediate

Kids 5-7

Kids 7+

No Gi

Beginner

Tuesday & Thursday

Time

12:00 PM

4:15 PM

5:30 PM

7:00 PM

Class

Intermediate

Kids 7+

All levels

Beginner

Friday

Time

7:00 AM

12:00 PM

3:30 PM

4:15 PM

5:30 PM

Class

Beginner

Intermediate

Kids 5-7

Kids 7+

Women's class

Saturday

Time

9:00 AM

10:00 AM

Class

Kids 7+

Intermediate

Sunday

Time

10:00 AM

Class

Takedowns

Schedule

Monday & Wednesday

Time

7:00 AM

12:00 PM

3:30 PM

4:15 PM

5:30 PM

7:00 PM

Class

Beginner

Intermediate

Kids 5-7

Kids 7+

No Gi

Beginner

Tuesday & Thursday

Time

12:00 PM

4:15 PM

5:30 PM

7:00 PM

Class

Intermediate

Kids 7+

All levels

Beginner

Friday

Time

7:00 AM

12:00 PM

3:30 PM

4:15 PM

5:30 PM

Class

Beginner

Intermediate

Kids 5-7

Kids 7+

Women's class

Saturday

Time

9:00 AM

10:00 AM

Class

Kids 7+

Intermediate

Sunday

Time

10:00 AM

Class

Takedowns

Frequently asked questions

Do I need prior martial arts experience to take classes?

How does Brazilian Jiu Jitsu differ from other martial arts?

What is the cost of membership?

Do you offer private lessons?

Do you provide Uniforms?

Frequently asked questions

Do I need prior martial arts experience to take classes?

How does Brazilian Jiu Jitsu differ from other martial arts?

What is the cost of membership?

Do you offer private lessons?

Do you provide Uniforms?

Frequently asked questions

Do I need prior martial arts experience to take classes?

How does Brazilian Jiu Jitsu differ from other martial arts?

What is the cost of membership?

Do you offer private lessons?

Do you provide Uniforms?

Location

725 Center Blvd

Fairfax, CA 94930

Location

725 Center Blvd

Fairfax, CA 94930

Location

725 Center Blvd

Fairfax, CA 94930