Professor Justin James
Black Belt
Born and raised between Honolulu and Hilo, Hawaii, Justin began his martial arts journey in 2005. After a short introduction to Jiu-Jitsu, he discovered a strong passion for striking and soon joined "Team China Man", where mixed martial arts became his focus.
In pursuit of growth, in 2009 Justin moved to Vancouver, British Columbia, where he trained with a variety of MMA teams before finding his home at Lions MMA in downtown Vancouver.
Justin’s dedication throughout the decade to art of MMA never wavered, and athough primarily focused on MMA Justin did receive his purple belt in BJJ. After injuries piled up and sidelined Justin, he then joined Gracie Barra Vancouver, where he concentrated fully on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
In 2022, his commitment and years of hard work were recognized when he was awarded his black belt under Professor Leandro Serafim.
Carrying that passion back home, in June 2024 Justin opened Gracie Barra Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. The academy has quickly grown into a thriving community, known for its positive culture, teamwork, and dedication to excellence both on and off the mats.
Justin’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lineage is as follows:
Carlos Gracie → Hélio Gracie → Osvaldo Alves → Pascoal Duarte → Rodrigo Carvalho → Leandro Serafim → Justin James
“We welcome you to join the team and look forward to seeing you on the mats!”
Coach John Lapastora
Brown Belt
John Lapastora's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) journey began in 1998 at the West Oahu Martial Arts Academy.
It was here that he was first introduced to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, a discipline that would profoundly change his life. Under the guidance of Coach Jonathan, he earned his purple belt and eventually transitioned into MMA, training at various local gyms throughout Hawaii.
In 2008, John accepted a position with a federal agency, prompting a move to Seattle. While in Seattle, he trained at the AMC Training Center under Matt Hume. However, it wasn't long before BJJ drew him back, leading him to join Gracie Barra Seattle under Professors Rodrigo and Carlos. Fully committed to mastering the gentle art, he chose to start over as a white belt to fully embrace the Gracie Barra curriculum.
Upon returning to Hawaii in 2012, John continued his BJJ training at Gracie Barra University Honolulu under Professor Elias, advancing through the Gracie Barra belt system. During a temporary duty assignment in Seattle, he earned his brown belt under Coach Kyle. Concurrently, John became a Defensive Tactics Instructor for his agency, where the Jiu-Jitsu techniques he learned played a crucial role in teaching officers how to stay safe.
John's BJJ journey has been marked by valuable lessons and incredible people. As he continues this journey alongside his four sons, he is deeply committed to giving back to others what Jiu-Jitsu has given him. Osss!
Coach Monte Lloyd
Purple Belt
Monte Lloyd is a four-stripe purple belt from El Paso, Texas, with over six years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience. A 14-year U.S. Army veteran and proud family man, he trains alongside his daughter, making Jiu-Jitsu a shared family journey.
As a GB1 Fundamentals coach, Monte focuses on building strong foundations, confidence, and camaraderie on the mats. He combines patience and encouragement with a structured approach, helping students grow at their own pace while embracing the values of discipline, respect, and community.
A lifelong learner, Monte sees continuous growth as a cornerstone of his journey both on and off the mats. He enjoys strength and conditioning, golfing, learning the bass guitar, and spending time with his family.
Coach Chuck Stevens
Purple Belt
