Gracie Barra is like a big family, open to people of all ages and backgrounds!
PROF. SEIDLER RODRIGO
Prof. Eliezer Neto
Interview with Prof. Eliezer Neto
Meet Professor Eliezer Neto that teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes at Gracie Barra West Jordan.
JIU JITSU CLASSES
Hello Prof. Eliezer, let’s get to some questions so people can know more about you.
Would you please introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Eliezer, I have been training JiuJitsu for about 19 years. I am a 2nd degree black belt and a brown belt in judo where I started in martial arts.
What do you do at Gracie Barra Utah' schools?
I am an athlete and professor at Gracie Barra Utah’ schools.
How has your transition been from Brazil to Utah, and what differences have you noticed in the Jiu-Jitsu community here?
I come from a competition team in Brazil where training was not as organized and standardized as we have here in the US, this has shown me how great Jiu Jitsu can be for everyone’s lives.
What are some of the challenges and rewards of being a Jiu-Jitsu competition referee?
I am an official referee for the largest Jiu Jitsu federation in the world, IBJJF. This is quite challenging because we are often responsible for defining fights that represent the dream of all the athletes there in the competitions. This helps me in all aspects as an athlete, being an “expert” of the rules, thus doing my job as a professor and being able to guide my students in a safer way.
What is the funniest or most memorable moment you've experienced on the mats, either as a professor or a referee?
I can mention countless memorable and funny moments that I have experienced and continue to experience on the mat, but in general, the changes that we have managed to make in the lives of people who are starting out in the sport are always vivid in my memory.
What values do you hope to pass on to your daughter through your practice and teaching of Jiu-Jitsu?
How strong we can be even in adverse positions (situations). Also, self-confidence, respect and personality.
How do you incorporate humor and your easy-going nature into your teaching style?
It is natural for me to always want to see the best in each person and to be able to bring a smile to a student’s face. I believe it breaks the ice and creates bonds of trust between professor and student. However, it is a fine line where respect and freedom must be balanced.
What are some of your favorite activities or hobbies outside of Jiu-Jitsu?
In Brazil, my hobbies were kitesurfing and surfing. Today, in the United States, I enjoy spending free time with my daughter and wife.
BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU CLASSES NEAR YOU
Our Passionate Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Instructors
At Gracie Barra West Jordan, all our BJJ instructors are certified through the Gracie Barra Instructor Certification Program (ICP). This rigorous program ensures they possess the highest level of knowledge, teaching skills, and leadership qualities. Also, all our instructors have their background checked and receive CPR training. Through ICP, they gain access to cutting-edge techniques, proven teaching methods, and ongoing support from the Gracie Barra team. This dedication to continuous improvement allows them to effectively guide you on your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in Utah.
OUR BJJ SCHOOL LOCATIONS
Experience life-changing moments with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes at one of our Gracie Barra locations in Utah!
Find the nearest Gracie Barra location to you:
Gracie Barra Salt Lake City
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66 East 3750 South Salt Lake City,
UT 84115 - 801.449.0162
- info@gbslc.com
Gracie Barra West Jordan
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8018 Welby Park Dr #2 West Jordan,
UT 84088 - 385.220.5284
- info@gbwestjordan.com
Gracie Barra Riverton
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2936 W 12600 S Ste 1&2, Riverton,
UT 84065 - 801.436.7373
- info@gbriverton.com