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Jon Fahning
via Google

Having had the opportunity to work with Professor Ruscio as my Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu coach, as well as, having him come in and help my police department train, I can honestly say there is not a better coach. Him and Rita are fully invested in making sure everyone gets better and take the time to thoroughly explain techniques. There's no place I'd rather train, and there are few schools with a coach as knowledgeable and experienced as Professor Brian.

Charm Kang
via Google

(Translated by Google) Very nice and nice teacher !!!

(Original)
너무 친절하고 좋은 선생님임 !!!

Lisa Scarberry
via Google

Great people! The real deal.

Vince Savelli
via Google

Been going here for 4 months now Brian is great with the kids and adults definitely recommend.

Ryan Swinford
via Google

If you live in the Tavares, Eustis, Mt Dora area and are interested in adult, teen, or child instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, or Judo I cannot recommend IBJJF Black Belt Brian Ruscio enough…absolutely the best instructor for all ages and skill levels in the area!!! Brian promotes an atmosphere that is friendly while at the same time allowing for competition and hard rolling if that is what you are looking for. The one thing I thought my son would miss not being involved in traditional team sports is the team…I was very wrong. Grappling Mastery is an outstanding team and I would not train anywhere else!!!

Shane Croft
via Google

Over the past few years, my son has been fortunate to become one of the best teen grapplers in the country. We have had many, many coaches across many states, and I can clearly state that Brian Ruscio from Grappling Mastery is one of the very best. He can teach not only at the highest level of the sport for serious competitors, but also is incredible when working with beginners (patient, kind, and understanding). So if you are in his area, and interested in jiu-jitsu and wrestling, don't think twice and go visit his school. You will never train anywhere else.

Chris Lowe
via Google

I've known Brian Ruscio since 2005 and trained for a few years with him in Orlando.I decided I would travel to Mt. Dora from Lakeland,FL and train with him.Grappling Mastery was very clean and professionally ran by Brian. His techniques were awesome and his students welcomed me as a visitor and made me feel at home. When I arrived for jiu jitsu I learned that they were starting with yoga Monday through Wednesday from 6-6:30 and I hadn't planned on taking a yoga class but Brian invited me to join him and I'm glad I did it was an excellent way to warm up, gain flexibility, and that lends itself to safer training as well.
Again if you are looking to train as a guest or you're looking to find an excellent school I would highly recommend Grappling Mastery.

Fernando Martin
via Google

I have the great pleasure to Know Brian for over 11 years, and seen him learn and become the incredible athlete he is today.
One thing that has always separated him from the crowd was his love for teaching and his ability to teach. His whole life has been around wrestling, fitness, Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial arts. I know of his dream of having his own school since early 2005 at least, and seeing this dream fulfilled with Grappling Mastery, makes me so proud of my friend and trainer. Anyone who would want to learn properly and reach the next step in their training should train with Brian, since he won't only teach you martial arts but also help you develop as a better person.
The devotion and focus to develop himself and others that I have seen in Brian, is something that makes him and His School Grappling Mastery very unique.
So if you want to learn proper MMA, sportsmanship and train with someone that has devoted all his life to be a great athlete and teacher and NEVER give up, you need to train with Brian Ruscio and his team at Grappling Mastery.

Brian Cole
via Google

Fantastic school to learn BJJ plus many other techniques. It's like one big family! Professor Brian Ruscio is very knowledgeable and patient with his students. It's a great family and positive environment.

David Robarge
via Google

Since I was 9 years old, I have studied many forms of self defense from; Tae Kwon Do, Boxing, and Eagle Claw Kung Fu. Out of all the different facilities that I have trained at, they are nothing like the Grappling Mastery. I have just started there about 3 weeks ago and I already enjoy it more than any other facility that I have been to. The environment is Friendly, and everyone there helps one another achieve their best. I would highly recommend this place to anyone. It doesn't matter how old you are, bring yourself, bring your kids, bring your parents. If you want a fun place to learn self defense skills and be part of a team with unlimited potential, then this is the place to be.

Chuck Pivetz
via Google

My experience at Grappling Mastery has been positive and exciting. I am trying to grow my knowledge and ability in Jiu Jitsu and other mixed martial arts. I have improved my skill level and knowledge under Brian in these areas of Jiu Jitsu; Takedowns, guard passing, sweeps and submissions. If you want to learn self-defense, stay in shape, or choke someone out with their own shirt, this is the place for you.

I have trained with Brian for over 3 years and have learned more about the art of Jiu-Jitsu from him than anyone else. What a great gym he has created and great family.

The school has become a second family and everyone is willing to help others improve. We even attend UFC/metamoris parties as a group. There are no egos and we have fun learning with Brian's patient instruction.

Jamie Hoover
via Google

Love this place.. And my son loves it too.. Great place to learn and get your Jiu Jitsu on!

Kathern Uvalle
via Google

I would like to share my experience. I joined October 2015 and wanted to be sure to give a review based on many months after I joined. I am new to BJJ, started 6 months prior to joining here. I am very happy I made the switch. If you are looking to train somewhere that you are being taught proper techniques, keeping up with IBJJF rules, explaining the points and answer any questions you have, this is the place. Professor Brian Ruscio clearly is someone that will help you achieve what you are looking to learn or accomplish. Whether it be self defense, street fight or competition. He is always willing to demonstrate, give alternatives and is very professional. I hope this may help anyone that is looking for a school in Lake County area. Glad I walked in those doors and took advantage of the free 30 day trial. Great place and atmosphere to train!

Kai Staton
via Google

Grappling Mastery is a great gym and Brian Ruscio is a great coach, he is very patient and teaches me both the basics and advanced techniques. I like that the whole Grappling Mastery team supports each other, in and out of the gym. After fighting for 6 years, I decided I wanted to try MMA. I already knew Boxing and Muay Thai, but I had no experience fighting on the ground. I started at Grappling Mastery 18 months ago, Brian has taught me so much in that time. Although I have a lot to learn, I feel very comfortable fighting on the ground now. Of all the fighting coaches I have had, Brian is easily my favorite. He understands my goals and is making sure I achieve them.

Jeremy Miller
via Google

I finally got the opportunity to train at Grappling Mastery last night and was honestly impressed. He was very welcoming and had plenty of time for all of his students. The class was filled with enthusiasm and students were having a good time. Don't miss your chance to train under a legitimate Gracie Barra black belt!
Definitely the best place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Lake County! They also offer several types of Wrestling and Muay Thai instruction as well. Professor Brian learned from the best and is willing and able to pass on his vast knowledge. If you're serious about martial arts, you can't go wrong with Grappling Mastery.

John Armstrong
via Google

Top Notch training! I'm so happy to have found this school and its instructors! Like one big family! I definitely recommend this school to any one looking! See you on the Mats.

Kristen and Luke Martineau
via Google

Outstanding instruction! Definitely an awesome learning environment and it feels like one big family! Brian and Rita genuinely care about your progress and growth in Jiu Jitsu! No one is out to prove anything which creates a very comfortable and welcoming class setting. The physical benefits are amazing and you learn a skill. Give it a try... you'll be addicted!
Top Notch training! I'm so happy to have found this school and its instructors! I definitely recommend this school to any one looking! See you on the Mats.

Erin Mullen
via Google

Grappling Mastery's BJJ, and Muay Thai classes have taught me so much. Brian Ruscio is a great instructor and I would highly recommend his classes. I initially joined to learn self defense, and after a few months feel able to defend myself in any situation. I enjoyed Brian's classes and instruction so much that my interest has gone beyond self defense and progressed into a passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Michael Jenkins
via Google

Brian is extremely knowledgeable, friendly and humble. He is very patient with the kids and us older learners. Everyone at Grappling Mastery was friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!

Tom Benitez
via Google

I started training at Grappling Mastery about 4 months ago. Brian Ruscio is a patient, knowledgeable coach and the academy is family friendly for all ages.
I am now trying to get my 6 year old into BJJ as I think it will be a great experience for him. I would recommend Grappling Mastery to anyone without hesitation.

Aimee Krivonyak
via Google

Professional, highly knowledgeable, genuinely caring instructors! Amazing place for for adults and children! Sign up! You will be very happy you did so!

Alex Scopino
via Google

Great teacher, great folks. Brian knows how to break the moves down so even beginners can understand how and WHY they work.

I've been training there for 3 years now. Brian is an excellent and patient instructor. He has made an atmosphere that is friendly and family oriented. I would highly recommend.

Lori Pitner
via Google

Great instructor, my daughter and I are very comfortable with this environment. We didn't expect to find such a high caliber trainer in our area. Thank you Brian for your integrity, morals and training.

Katie Joseph
via Google

Took my daughter here in March 2015 because we were looking to get her into MMA. She has been loving the classes as well as the great teachers! I even started private sessions with Brian and the women's Brazilian Jiu Jitsu on Saturdays. If you truly want to learn what Grappling Mastery has to offer then come check out the growing family..

Mitchell Bourne
via Google

I’ve been training here only a couple months at this point, but since day one I’ve felt welcomed. Brian and the guys and girls here are all super cool and constantly helping me learn. Definitely worth checking out!

Chris C.
via Google

I came to grappling mastery a few months ago with no experience in any combat sports. Everyone from the beginning has been very friendly and always eager to help me learn. Great school, Great people.

Hector Resendez
via Google

Grappling Mastery is by far the best club to join in Eustis. FL. my personal experience was awesome they are professional, friendly folks. they will work with you to help you accomplish your goals.

Tom McGovern
via Google

Going here a few months now as often as I am able. No complaints. Great place to train, had little experience with any martial arts and everyone was willing to work with me to get me up to speed.

Aron Bland
via Google

Great Team! Brian brings a wealth of knowledge from many styles. As a professional fighter and active duty Soldier I have worked out with many great people and at many great gyms. I can say confindently Grappling Mastery is by far one of the most complete Teams I have ever worked out with! Great instruction for all levels, if you are in the area I highly suggest you check out Grappling Mastery!

Jaime Schack
via Google

This academy is truly outstanding! My son has attended since November 2014 and he is a tough one to like any activity but from the first class Brian (instructor/owner) made him interested! Brian has the unique ability to keep the kids involved & focused on the task at hand. Plus with Rita as his right hand, they make the perfect team the kids look up to and actually listen to. Even though this is located 30 minutes from my house 100% worth it!

Ashly Robledo
via Google

They are really awesome. Great with kids and the kids (boy and girl) love it! Highly recommend checking them out.

James Scheel
via Google

I joined primarily to get in better shape yet immediately discovered a community that I had to be a part of.

Jason Weber
via Google

“Along with my wife I brought my boys to this gym a 2 years ago. They have come a long way through diligent practice and focus on training lead by the amazing coaches at Grappling Mastery. I can’t begin to explain how proud I am of not only their results in competition but also the discipline and sportsmanship that is impressed upon them during their training. I couldn’t be happier in the choice of gyms and coaches than I am with Grappling Mastery. There is simply no better an instructor than Brian, He is a great teacher with adults and children. He teaches patience and honor along with attention to technical practice. I am proud to say he is my coach and will be as long as long as he is teaching.”

--Update-
"We are at two years now and our whole family are now members along with the stellar children's classes my wife and I are in the adult classes and we are loving it. A great way to stay in shape lose weight and learn a valuable skill. The kids have grown so much in the past year in Jiu Jitsu and with the ever growing team at grappling mastery have moved on to many competition wins. They have also had loses and they have taken them with as learning experiences. This is a great family oriented gym and I do consider many of its members family!!

Jonathan Carrol
via Google

Both of my children are enrolled and participate in all the classes. The classes have improved confidence, fitness and knowledge of the art of Brazilian Jujitsu. The teachers - Brian, Rita, and Dave are amazing. It is wonderful to see how much these teachers care and provide a safe and dynamic environment. I highly recommend this Dojo for all.

Melissa Edwards
via Google

My kids have been training here for 2.5 years and we love it! Great coaches. They are very patient.

Viktoria Clark
via Google

It's awesome. The coaches are great, super friendly and understanding and very knowledgeable. My girls and I love the classes. I highly recommend Brazilian Jujitsu.

Anthony Winchell
via Google

Great coaching, Great system, Amazing team, couldn’t ask for better!

Arsenio Rosa III
via Google

While doing research on schools in the area I had just moved to I was told that this school had a certain reputation (Cobra Kai type) so I decided to see for myself. Turns out there was nothing further from the truth. The coach and all its members have become like family. Not only that but the jiu-jitsu lineage can be verified, their coaches are battle tested and no egos. If you’re looking to learn and train this is a great place to do it.

Renee C.
via Google

I recently signed my son up for Jiu Jitsu and Grappling with Coach Brian and I can’t say enough good things about the class and the team, the whole staff is knowledgeable and takes the time to explain the moves and how to execute them properly. My son loves going to the class which offers not only skills but exercise in addition. We are so happy to be a part of the Grappling Mastery family.

Claire Derderian
via Google

Friendly coaches and members whose goal is to help you thrive. The coaches are articulate and offer high quality teaching. The best part of my day. :)

Brandon Elliot
via Yelp

Every day I train at Grappling Mastery is an honor and a pleasure. It is a rare thing indeed to find a coach as knowledgeable and technically proficient as Brian Ruscio; what's even more impressive is his obvious passion for the sport and the personal investment he makes in his students. If you want to be a more complete fighter, or even just a talented hobbyist, Grappling Mastery is the place to be. For those of you in the first responder community, a discount is available, and *everyone* can try the first 30 days free. If this seems like a shameless plug, well that's because it is. I was welcomed with open arms as a new student, and my game has grown leaps and bounds. I couldn't imagine training anywhere else.

Come check it out!

Keith Donaldson
via Yelp

After training in several other grappling schools, I am so pleased to have found the best at last! Not only is Brian very thorough and proficient in jiu jitsu techniques but his vast wrestling background really complements and solidifies the actual application of the positions, and techniques. Multiple options are shown for both submissions and escapes and the same techniques are worked on for that week which helps reinforce them before moving on. The difference of both the sport and self defense applications is also distinguished and both are offered.
The atmosphere and morale of the school is very friendly supportive and you will feel the group effort and respect for one another, without passing judgments. I am really impressed at the patience and willingness of Brian to work one on one with each student during class and in private training. Its also great to see the videos that are uploaded when I cant physically be at the school but still want to mentally be present. In this day and age it is very difficult to find an instructor with people skills as well as a wealth of experience. With Brian you have the total package! I drive a half an hour from the Orlando area every time, but its totally worth it! Especially with affordable dues.

Andre Rivera
via Yelp

I'm a US Marine and completed the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program Green Belt Instructor course in the summer of 2002. Soon after the 3-week course I was deployed to Iraq from 2003-2004. Therefore, I never had the opportunity to really exploit what I learned as our priorities were directed at our mission. Therefore, I had a taste of the martial arts, but no long-term formal training, other than the 3 weeks of the course, just enough to know that I don't know much at all. I thought it was important to begin my review with my background so readers understand that I know enough to know what is legitimate, yet I do not at all have long term formalized training.
I am a disabled combat veteran, I sustained severe airborne injuries which required surgery and other secondary injuries. These injuries I believed would prevent me from ever attempting to pursue training in the martial arts as I am in perpetual pain. Moreover, I simply felt inadequate and incapable of doing it. After the war, I also attained "invisible" injuries in the form of Post-Traumatic Stress from the experiences of war. All of these factors made me believe that the martial arts would be something I could never do until I met Professor Brian Ruscio.
I did much research before reaching out to Grappling Mastery, and compared the lineage and training of Professor Ruscio with other schools. I found many schools, much closer to my home, but the Professor was by far the most experienced, not only in training but in actual competitions, as well as having an exemplary lineage. Moreover, I found his training to be extremely robust and beyond just Brazilian Jujitsu, as his training went far beyond by being inclusive of many forms of grappling. He is a NAGA Pan-American Championship in the Expert Light Heavyweight Division and created a Hybrid Grappling Style by combining the best moves from Greco-Roman, Freestyle Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Sambo, and Catch-as-Catch-Can. All of this made it clear that he would be the school I would attend. I felt the 2 hour drive each day would be well worth it to learn from the best. As a Marine paratrooper, I would not be satisfied with anything less. Now all I had left to do was to experience first-hand how he would be as an instructor to a veteran with severe disabilities.
Professor Ruscio's training and method of teaching is exemplary. Although I do not know much of the martial arts, I am an expert instructor in multiple disciplines, I was a Marine Corps Primary Marksmanship Instructor, Para-Marine Jumpmaster, Firepower Control Team Chief, Marine Air Ground Task Force Fire Support Coordinator, and more, and as a civilian, the Theater-Wide Training Director in Iraq for Biometrics, worked for the U.S. Army Intelligence Center's Training and Doctrine Command, worked for CENTCOM and SOCOM, hold a Master's degree, and am a current NRA Firearm's instructor, a former Florida "K" licensed firearms instructor, Director of Investigations (Florida licensed Private Investigator with C, G, A licenses) and more. I know a great instructor when I meet one. The professor is patient, empathetic to injuries, yet pushes you to your personal limitations. He maintains a calm demeanor, yet a genuine enthusiasm for your development. His training is personalized and not cookie cutter. When you think he is not watching, he will approach you and catch nuances you are executing incorrectly which you do not realize. Small adjustments enable immediate results when you have an instructor who cares about your improvement. I believe he purposely observes from an angle in which you do not see him, so you are not distracted or conscientious of his watchful eye. But make no mistake, his attention to detail will exploit your weaknesses, for on the spot correction, and immediate improvement. His instruction is exceptional. With all things, you must put in the work. Do not rely on attending a few hours a week and expecting magical improvement. You should be going over what you learned either by executing the movements at home, watching his free videos on YouTube, and attending weekly "roll & review "
Lastly, I want to address the culture created by the professor. As a veteran, we crave challenge, camaraderie, and purpose. And sometimes feel we have lost that when we transition to civilian. At Grappling Mastery I have found that culture again. Everyone I have met has been sincerely encouraging, supportive, and have gone out of their way to help me improve. The only competition I feel is against myself. To be a better version of myself the next training day. There is no pressure or fear of failure. Everyone has a genuine empathy with each other, a genuine camaraderie. I cannot begin to express how significant his training has been to help with my Post Traumatic Stress.
I feel privileged and blessed to have found Professor Ruscio who has in a short time had a huge positive impact on my life.

Ted Kendall
via Yelp

I have trained in Brazillian Jiu Jitsu with several gyms throughout the east coast for a year prior to joining Grappling Mastery and I must say Brian has the best school I have ever had the honor to train at. I have been at this gym for a little over a year now and i've watched him transform not only myself but many others into top of the line grapplers and teammates. Brian is the only IBJJF certified instructor in the area and it shows as many people from other local gyms seek him out to train with the best. From the moment you walk in the door be it kids or adults,beginners or seasoned veterans of the sport are always made to feel welcome. I would recommend this school to anyone who wants a quality experiance in the sport of Jiu Jitsu.

Heidi M.
via Yelp

I was wanting to get my 5 year old involved in a year round sport and came across Grappling Mastery. I really wasn't sure if it would work out considering he was one of the younger students, but Brian and Rita are so great with the kids. They are incredibly patient and helpful, and they've worked with my rambunctious son to help him learn to focus and work on his training. We used to go two afternoons a week, but my son loves it and begs to go every time his class is offered.

I like that he is getting exercise while having fun, but he's also building a foundation of knowledge and skills for self defense. It's the perfect sport for an energetic kid.

I can't say enough about coaches Brian and Rita. We highly recommend this gym for kids or adults.

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Brian Ruscio

Owner/Head Instructor
Certifications
  • 3rd Degree Gracie Barra BJJ Black Belt
  • Official Bang Muay Thai Coach
  • Certified USA Wrestling Coach Bronze/Copper Certified
  • NESTA Certified MMA Strength and Conditioning Coach
  • ISSA Certified Personal Trainer
  • Certified Rock Steady Boxing Coach
  • SafeSport Certified
  • CPR Certified
Biography

Professor Brian Ruscio is a 3rd Degree Gracie Barra BJJ Black Belt and Official Bang Muay Thai Coach under Duane “Bang” Ludwig. Brian Ruscio started Wrestling and competing at 4 years of age, eventually becoming a coach and referee. In 2005 he began learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Gracie Barra’s Marcio Simas, and Muay Thai with Mejiro Gym’s, Bobby Robare. Brian started teaching his style of mixed martial arts in 2013 when he opened Grappling Mastery in Lake County, Florida. Eventually looking to Duane Ludwig about a year later as his new Muay Thai Coach.  Professor Ruscio actively competes on the World level at the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federations (IBJJF) World Jiu Jitsu Championships, “Mundials”.  He is also a North American Grappling Association Pan American Expert Division Champion.  Brian’s goal, with Grappling Mastery, is to lead you and other members to become champions in life and on the mats.

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