Instructors

Expert Coaches Dedicated to Your Jiu Jitsu and Self Defence Journey

 

Our instructors bring a wealth of experience and passion to every class at Gracie Swindon. Each coach has years of dedication in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self defence, with backgrounds that range from competitive experience to specialised training in self defence techniques for real world applications.

 

Our team is here to guide you with personalised attention and professional insight, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.

Lucas Luz

 

Professor Lucas Luz brings over 20 years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expertise to Gracie Swindon, where he leads as Head Coach with a commitment to excellence and continuous learning. A third–degree black belt under the legendary Rolker Gracie – son of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu founder Helio Gracie – Lucas’ roots run deep in BJJ tradition and excellence. Most recently, he claimed Gold at the 2024 Lisbon Open and is a four-time British BJJ Champion, competing at the highest levels worldwide.

 

Lucas’ journey in BJJ began in his native Brazil at the esteemed Nova Geração Academy under Master Francisco “Toco.” Over the years, he has trained with elite BJJ athletes, including multi-time world champion Celsinho Venicius , and today continues his studies under Master Robin Gracie to stay at the forefront of this evolving martial art.

 

Achievements of Professor Lucas Luz:

  • 2025 IBJJ Japan Nogi champion
  • 2025 AJP St Petersburg Gi and Nogi Champion
  • 2025 Asia Master second Place
  • 2024 Lisbon Open BJJ Champion
  • 2023 No-Gi British Champion
  • 4x British BJJ Champion
  • 2019 British National IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Champion
  • Battle Grappling and Victory Grappling Veteran

 

As the head coach at Gracie Swindon, Lucas is dedicated to building a thriving BJJ community, empowering students of all levels, and sharing his passion for BJJ as a martial art and way of life . With his deep lineage from Mitsuyo Maeda to Carlos and Helio Gracie, Lucas embodies the spirit of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, teaching self defense, resilience, and discipline to each student who steps onto the mats.

Daniel Rodrigues 

 

Daniel began his Jiu-Jitsu journey in 1998 and was awarded his Black Belt in December 2007 under Master Muzio de Angelis at Gávea Gym. With more than two decades of experience on the mats, he has built his martial arts career on discipline, resilience, technical development, and the life lessons that Jiu-Jitsu provides.

 

For Professor Daniel, Jiu-Jitsu is far more than a martial art. It is a powerful tool for developing confidence, emotional control, respect, and personal growth both on and off the mats.

 

His teaching philosophy is centred around the individual needs of each student. He believes that everyone has their own pace, personality, and learning journey. As a result, he strives to create a safe, welcoming, and structured environment where students can develop their skills with confidence and enjoy the process of learning.

 

At Gracie Swindon, Professor Daniel brings a wealth of experience, strong values, and a genuine passion for helping students achieve their full potential through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Justin Lundy

 

Justin Lundy is a dedicated martial arts instructor with over 20 years of training experience and more than 15 years of teaching children and adults. A 5th Dan Black Belt in Karate and a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Justin is passionate about helping students build confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills through martial arts.

 

With over a decade of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training and experience coaching students of all ages and abilities, Justin creates a supportive, structured, and inclusive learning environment where everyone can thrive. He has extensive experience working with children and adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), ensuring that every student feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to succeed.

 

Committed to maintaining the highest standards of coaching and student care, Justin holds a range of professional qualifications, including Level 1 and Level 2 Coaching Certifications, the João Santos Jiu-Jitsu Instructors Course, Emergency First Aid at Work, Safeguarding, SENCO certification, and an Enhanced DBS check.

 

Justin’s goal is simple: to help every student become stronger, more confident, and more capable both on and off the mats.