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.
