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?