Gracie Barra Springfield is the only GB school in Springfield. It joins a legacy of over 600 Gracie Barra Brazilian jiu-jitsu schools worldwide.
Gracie Barra Springfield provides Brazilian jiu-jitsu instruction in a structured environment, following the Gracie Barra Code of Conduct and Gracie Barra Etiquette. Our school provides Brazilian jiu-jitsu programs, which are fit for students of all different knowledge levels.
We offer both private and group classes that focus on character growth and self improvement, and we believe that the techniques and values learned in our programs can better your life, on and off the mats. Learn more about our programs here.
For any questions feel free to fill out the form below and someone from the Gracie Barra Springfield team will contact you soon!
Our Weekly Schedule
Our Instructors
Professor Marcos Barros
ICP4, ICP5, ICP6, CPR
Professor Marcos Barros is the Head Professor at Gracie Barra Springfield. He was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and trained under the instruction of Master Carlos Gracie Jr. and Professor Marcio Feitosa. He began his teaching career at the Headquarters in Rio de Janeiro under Master Carlos. In 2005, Professor Marcos began teaching in the …
Professor Billy Wilder
Professor Billy Wilder serves as the esteemed Head Instructor at Gracie Barra Springfield, IL, having dedicated himself exclusively to the art of Jiu-Jitsu since 2015. His entry into Jiu-Jitsu was underscored by a distinguished background in martial arts and military service. As a Marine Corps veteran, Professor Wilder’s martial journey spans a lifetime, encompassing rigorous …
Professor Roger Smith
Professor Roger started training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2014 because of his interest in self defense. Roger has always had a love for martial arts. As a youth, he was involved in Okinawan Karate and some of his favorite memories are learning Hapkido with his dad and great uncle. Professor Roger has several years of …
Coach Dave Dennis
Coach Dave was first introduced to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu via his grandchildren, who were students of the skill. After being witness to their development on the mats, and the influence the art had off the mats, Coach Dave decided to step onto the mats himself. Dave spent many years wrestling and the love for grappling …
Coach John Dixon
Coach John began learning the art & skill of Brazilian Jui Jitsu in 2019. Introduced by his friend Professor Tom, he quickly found a passion that fully engulfed him in the BJJ lifestyle. Coach John didn’t begin Jiu Jitsu until in his 50’s and believes it’s never too late to take on the Jiu Jitsu …
Coach Jim Grimaldi
Jim Grimaldi is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt under 5th Degree Black Belt, Professor Marcos Barros. An avid competitor, Coach Jim has had success at the highest level, becoming an IBJJF World Champion, Pan-American Champion, and U.S. National Champion. Coach Jim began grappling at a young age. He was a competitive wrestler for many years …