David Landmeier
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
ICP
He grew up in the northwest suburbs of Chicago and currently resides in Highland Park. David earned a Bachelor of Science in Analytical Geography from Eastern Illinois University and built a career in international freight logistics before transitioning into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Like many, he was first introduced to Jiu-Jitsu through the early days of the UFC. Although he had a long-standing interest in training, the demands of his career delayed his start.
In 2015, at the age of 42, David finally stepped onto the mats at Gracie Barra Deerfield. At the time, he was out of shape and looking for something that would keep his interest—and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu proved to be exactly that.
Under the guidance of Professor Marcelo De Souza, he progressed through the ranks and developed a deep passion for the art. His journey is a strong example that it’s never too late to start and that consistency over time leads to real progress.
Professor David is known for his sense of humor, positive energy, technical knowledge and approachable nature. He brings a contagious energy to the mats and creates an environment where students feel comfortable, motivated, and supported.
His classes emphasize strong fundamentals, attention to detail, and a positive learning environment, helping students of all levels build confidence and skill in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Professor Marcelo De Souza
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
ICP
Head Instructor: Professor Marcelo De Souza is a 5th Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with over three decades of experience.
He began training in 1994 at the Gracie Barra headquarters in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under Master Carlos Gracie Jr.. As one of Master Carlos Gracie Jr.’s early students, Prof. Marcelo has maintained a close relationship with him to this day.
In 2006, he was awarded his black belt by Master Carlos Gracie Jr. and, in 2007, moved to the United States to teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. From 2007 to 2009, he was one of the original instructors at Gracie Barra Headquarters in California, working alongside Master Carlos Gracie Jr. and Prof. Marcio Feitosa.
Since 2014, Prof. Marcelo has been the Head Instructor at Gracie Barra Deerfield, playing a key role in building the school and shaping the strong culture and community it is known for today.
His competition achievements include:
Brazilian National Champion (1997, 1998, 1999)
Member of the Brazilian National Team, Pan American Games Team Champions (2003)
Prof. Marcelo is known for his sense of humor and engaging, inspiring approach. He connects naturally with students of all ages and consistently challenges them to improve. His teaching blends technical precision with a structured, supportive environment.
He has built a culture of respect, family, and warmth—where students feel welcomed, supported, and motivated to grow. He takes pride in each student’s development and in creating a community people genuinely enjoy being part of.
Odysseas Lazarou
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Purple Belt
ICP
Coach Odysseas Lazarou is a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
He was introduced to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu by a friend who encouraged him to try a class. In March 2022, he stepped onto the mats at Gracie Barra Deerfield and quickly developed a strong passion for the art and its values.
Since then, Coach Odysseas has dedicated himself to both his own training and to teaching. As a certified instructor, he has built a strong foundation in Jiu-Jitsu and an effective ability to communicate techniques to students of all levels.
As the Gracie Barra Kids (GBK) Lead Instructor, he is known for his patience, energy, and ability to connect with kids. He creates a structured, positive, and engaging environment where students build confidence, discipline, and respect while developing solid technical skills.
In addition to leading the kids program, Coach Odysseas also teaches adult classes, bringing the same level of structure, attention to detail, and supportive coaching style to students of all ages.
Under the guidance of Professor Marcelo De Souza, his classes emphasize strong fundamentals, consistency, and a positive team culture, helping students grow both on and off the mats.
Yevheniia Ovsiuk
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Blue Belt
ICP
Yevheniia Ovsiuk began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the age of 9 after being introduced to the sport by her brother. Over the past eight years, she has developed a deep passion and commitment to her growth on the mats.
Originally from Ukraine, she continued her journey after moving to the United States in 2022, where she found a home at Gracie Barra Deerfield.
Currently a blue belt, Yevheniia has built a strong competition record, including a 2nd place finish at the Pan American Championships (2024, yellow belt). She has also competed in events such as the IBJJF New Jersey Open, Grappling Industries, and Grappling Games, and has participated in a superfight.
Known for her quiet but powerful presence, Yevheniia is highly technical with a strong emphasis on guard playing. She is also a natural leader on the mats, leading by example through her discipline, consistency, and work ethic while helping create a focused and supportive training environment.
