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Classes
Gracie Barra offers progressive Jiu-Jitsu training for students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're just beginning your journey or already an experienced practitioner, our structured classes are designed to support your development every step of the way.
Gracie Barra Kids
Our GBK Program introduces children to Jiu-Jitsu in a fun, safe, and age-appropriate classes - building confidence, discipline, and respect through structured curriculum. It focuses on self-defence, takedowns, and ground techniques.
Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals
The GB1 Program is the foundation of Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra. Originally called the "Fundamental Program," it offers structured training in self-defence, core techniques, and the philosophy of Gracie Barra. Designed for beginners, GB1 builds strong technical skills and prepares students for progression to advanced levels.
Advanced Jiu-Jitsu
The GB2 Program builds on fundamentals with advanced techniques, complex drills, training and live sessions - preparing students for GB3. Eligibility requires at least 3 stripes on a white belt, which requires a minimum of 4 months of training.
Expert Jiu-Jitsu
The GB3 Program is the ultimate level of training at a GB school and challenges students, increasing the complexity of the drills, and the intensity of the training session. It is open to blue belts and above.
Jiu-Jitsu for Women
The GBF Program offers a supportive and inclusive introduction to Jiu-Jitsu for women, focusing on core techniques while building confidence and preparing students to progress into more advanced classes like GB1, GB2 and GB3.
Private Classes
Private classes offer one-on-one training tailored to your goals - whether it's refining techniques, preparing for competition, or accelerating progress. With personalized training schedules and focused feedback, students of all levels gain deeper insight into their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
Begin your Jiu-Jitsu Journey with Gracie Barra
Book Your Free ClassInstructors
At Gracie Barra, our instructors are more than coaches — they are mentors, role models, and passionate leaders committed to the personal growth of every student. Each certified instructor upholds the highest standards of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction, following a proven teaching methodology rooted in safety, discipline, and respect. With years of experience on the mats and a deep connection to the Gracie Barra values of brotherhood, integrity, and development, our team is dedicated to helping students of all ages and skill levels achieve their goals in a supportive and inspiring environment.
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Professor Demetrios Diavatopoulos
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Professor Greg Lee
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Garen Cakmak
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Fred Blanquart
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Simone Therriault
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Yanni Petsinis
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Michael Antonecchia
Demetrios Diavatopoulos
Black Belt (2nd Degree) - Head Instructor
CPR - ICP
A lifelong martial artist, Professor Demetrios brings over 30 years of experience to the mats. He began training in Kyokushin Karate at 15 before dedicating himself to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1993. A 2nd degree black belt under Professor Bruno Fernandes, he embodies the Gracie Barra philosophy of discipline, respect, and continuous growth.
After 25 years as a professional civil engineer, Demetrios focused full-time on teaching and leading GB Saint-Laurent, creating a community dedicated to learning, personal growth, and empowerment. He emphasizes technical mastery, self-defense, and building confidence, helping students of all levels achieve their goals.
Greg Lee
Black Belt - Instructor
CPR - ICP
Professor Greg brings a combination of competitive experience and technical expertise to the dojo. A black belt under Professor Diavatopoulos, he has trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, boxing, and submission wrestling, giving students a well-rounded, dynamic approach.
Greg’s classes focus on discipline, skill development, and confidence, helping students of all levels achieve their personal best. Outside the mats, he works in the video game industry, where strategy and creativity mirror his approach to martial arts.
Garen Cakmak
Brown Belt - Instructor
CPR - ICP
A passionate martial artist and lifelong learner, Garen is a brown belt under Professor Diavatopoulos. He combines technical precision with creativity, helping students build confidence, resilience, and practical self-defense skills.
Garen works professionally in robotics and manufacturing, balancing his career with his love for martial arts. He believes in empowering students of all levels to grow steadily while enjoying the journey of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Fred Blanquart
Purple Belt - Instructor
CPR - ICP
Coach Fred is a purple belt under Professor Diavatopoulos and a dedicated martial artist passionate about practical self-defense. He emphasizes discipline, adaptability, and continuous learning, helping students of all levels develop confidence and technical skill.
Outside the dojo, Fred works in aeronautics and IT while pursuing university studies, reflecting his commitment to growth in all areas of life. He strives to create a supportive, challenging environment where students can thrive on their martial arts journey.
Simone Therriault
Blue Belt - Kids Instructor
CPR - ICP
Simone is a passionate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor and dedicated kids instructor at GB Saint-Laurent. She is extremely focused, driven, and committed to helping students grow both on and off the mats.
A lifelong learner and avid student of martial arts, Simone brings curiosity, discipline, and energy to every class. She loves teaching children, helping them develop confidence, self-discipline, and a love for Jiu-Jitsu, while also fostering a safe and supportive environment.
Her competitive experience allows her to guide students toward setting goals, embracing challenges, and striving for excellence, while her dedication and enthusiasm inspire every student to reach their potential.
Yanni Petsinis
Blue Belt - Kids Instructor
CPR - ICP
Yanni is a dedicated kids instructor and competitive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete with a strong passion for MMA and wrestling. He brings energy, discipline, and technical skill to every class, helping young students develop confidence, resilience, and a love for martial arts.
As a competitor himself, Yanni guides kids in preparation for tournaments, teaching them how to set goals, embrace challenges, and grow both on and off the mats. His experience in BJJ and wrestling allows him to provide a well-rounded, dynamic training experience, while his enthusiasm and dedication inspire every student to reach their full potential.
Michael Antonecchia
Kids Instructor - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Michael is a young and passionate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and kids instructor at GB Saint-Laurent. Known for his positive energy and patience, he creates a fun and encouraging environment where children can build confidence, focus, and discipline through Jiu-Jitsu.
Deeply passionate about the art, Michael is always learning, training, and improving — both as a student and as an instructor. His enthusiasm for BJJ and commitment to helping others grow make him a valued part of the GB Saint-Laurent team and a great role model for young students.
Enhance your training beyond the mats! Access GB Online for exclusive video instruction, techniques, and training resources anytime, anywhere.