Coach Jim is a Purple Belt under Nicholas Walters, 3rd Degree Black Belt.

Jim discovered his love for grappling at an early age, wrestling and competing in junior high and high school. However, he didn’t find his love for Jiu Jitsu until much later in life. He earned his white belt in 2018, his blue belt in 2019, and his purple belt in 2023. Jim has trained under several professors with multiple world titles, but his strongest influence and most dedicated time comes from Professor Walters. Jim’s Jiu Jitsu style is the traditional application of fundamental techniques that have been taught through his lineage. He considers himself a life-long learner and tries to learn something new, every day, regardless of belt or experience.

Outside of Jiu Jitsu, Jim has served in the Marine Corps for over 19 years, and holds a Black Belt, First Degree, in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP). Additionally, Coach Jim is a competitive runner, a Distinguished Pistol Shot, an avid reader, and a former instructor of Warfighting, Marine Corps University. His formal education includes a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, a Master of Military Studies, and Master of Business Administration.

Lineage: Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie > Helio Gracie > Rickson Gracie > Luiz Palhares > Nicholas Walters

Accomplishments:

2023:

IBJJF Charlotte Open: 2nd Place-Purple Belt

IBJJF Charlotte Open: 3rd Place (Open Weight Class)-Purple Belt

IBJJF Charleston Open: 2nd Place- Blue Belt

2022:

IBJJF Charlotte Open: 3rd Place-Blue Belt

IBJJF Charlotte Open: 2nd Place (Open Weight Class)-Blue Belt

IBJJF Charleston Open: 3rd Place- Blue Belt

CXBJJ Greenville Open: 1st Place

CXBJJ Greenville Open: 3rd Place (Open Weight Class)-Blue Belt