Meet Your Coaches
Experienced, professional instruction focused on safety, structure, and long-term progress.
Scott Christensen
Head Coach
Scott is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and the head coach at Renzo Gracie Ponce. His approach to teaching emphasizes structure, safety, and understanding, helping students build confidence through clear instruction rather than intensity or ego.
Scott believes Jiu-Jitsu should be:
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Systematic
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Practiced safely
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Accessible to beginners
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Challenging without being overwhelming
His focus is on developing capable, thoughtful grapplers—both on and off the mats.
How We Teach Jiu-Jitsu
Instruction at Renzo Gracie Ponce is intentional and structured.
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Clear explanations before movement
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Emphasis on control and safety
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Progressive learning for beginners
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Respect between training partners
Students are guided to understand why techniques work—not just how to copy them.
This approach helps beginners feel comfortable while allowing experienced students to refine their skills.
A Beginner-Friendly Environment
Starting something new can feel intimidating. Our coaches are experienced in helping new students feel comfortable from their very first class.
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Beginners are never thrown into situations they’re not ready for
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Training partners are paired appropriately
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Questions are encouraged
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Progress happens at a steady, supportive pace
Whether you’re new to martial arts or returning after time away, you’ll be guided with patience and professionalism.
Teaching Kids With Care
Our Kids Jiu-Jitsu program is taught with the same professionalism—adapted for young students.
Coaches focus on:
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Safety and supervision
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Clear structure and routines
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Positive reinforcement
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Building confidence without aggression
Parents can feel confident knowing their children are learning in a respectful, age-appropriate environment.
Our Training Culture
The tone of a Jiu-Jitsu academy starts with its coaches.
We expect:
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Mutual respect
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Controlled training
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Willingness to learn
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Support for teammates
This culture allows students of all ages and experience levels to train together safely and productively.
Lineage & Affiliation
Scott Christensen earned his Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under Max McGarr at Renzo Gracie Reno. Max McGarr received his black belt from Renzo Gracie and John Danaher at the Renzo Gracie Academy in New York City.
This lineage reflects a teaching system grounded in technical precision, control, and thoughtful problem-solving—while remaining accessible and welcoming to students of all experience levels.