Gracie Barra Online
Enhance your training beyond the mats! Access GB Online for exclusive video instruction, techniques, and training resources anytime, anywhere.
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, No-Gi 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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Gavin Sonnier
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Amanda Hendey
Professor Gavin Sonnier
Black Belt
Certified Instructor, CPR Certified
Gavin Sonnier is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and the head instructor at Gracie Barra Scottsdale. With over 12 years of dedicated training, Gavin has built a career defined by discipline, resilience, and a passion for helping others grow through jiu-jitsu. Originally from the small town of Welsh, Louisiana, Gavin began his jiu-jitsu journey in 2013 at Gracie Barra. His commitment to the art has led him to achieve notable accomplishments, including placing at the IBJJF World Championships and Pan-American Championships, winning gold at the IBJJF American Nationals, and earning multiple gold medals at IBJJF Open events.
Jiu-jitsu has brought Gavin many of life’s greatest gifts—valuable lessons, lifelong friendships, and ultimately bringing him and his wife together before they moved to Scottsdale, Arizona to continue their journey. Today, he leads the academy with the belief that a truly great school is defined by its community and the people inside it. As an instructor, Gavin is driven by the opportunity to make a positive impact on every student who walks through the doors. He strives to ensure that all students feel seen, supported, and appreciated. He teaches a wide variety of classes and is committed to creating an environment where students of all backgrounds can grow on and off the mats.
Gavin’s personal goal is to become a black belt world champion, while continuing to transform lives through the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Outside of training, he enjoys spending time with his wife, working out together, hiking, & traveling.
Coach Amanda
BLUE BELT
Certified in Marketing & Sales, Certified Instructor
Coach Amanda was born and raised in Cherry Valley, California, and has spent her life immersed in grappling sports. She began wrestling at just three years old and went on to become a multiple time California State Champion as well as a high school, collegiate, and U.S. Open National Champion. Over a ten-year international career, she competed as a member of the U.S. National Wrestling Team, representing the sport at its highest level.
After retiring from wrestling in 2023 due to injury, Amanda transitioned into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and found her home at Gracie Barra Scottsdale. She was drawn to jiu-jitsu as a discipline that supports longevity, continuous learning, and high-level training, while allowing her to apply her background in leadership, business, and sports management.
At Gracie Barra Scottsdale, Coach Amanda is deeply committed to building a strong, connected academy culture. She places a high value on relationships with students and families, believing that true growth comes not only from technical development, but from a supportive environment that empowers members both on and off the mats.
Gracie Barra Online
Enhance your training beyond the mats! Access GB Online for exclusive video instruction, techniques, and training resources anytime, anywhere.
