Meet Your Coaches
At Houzn, the instructor isn’t just teaching moves—they’re building discipline, confidence, and calm under pressure. Our team brings high-level experience with a grounded, welcoming culture: no ego, high standards, and smart training for longevity.
New here? Start with Fundamentals—we’ll guide you.
What you can expect in every class
Clear structure: warm-up with purpose, technique you can actually use, drilling, then live rounds (optional for brand-new students).
Coaching that meets you where you are: beginners get clarity; advanced students get details and game development.
Safety + respect first: partner matching, controlled intensity, and a culture that rewards discipline—not recklessness.
Progress you can measure: fundamentals pathway, coaching feedback, and consistent standards.
Tell us your goals and schedule—we’ll recommend the best starting point.
Our Team
Rafaello Oliveira
Head Instructor (Adults Gi) • Kids Advanced • Little Warriors • Head Coach (Elite + B Team)Rafaello is a 4th-degree black belt with 20+ years in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and experience competing at the highest levels. His coaching blends real self-defense, technical development, and character-building—so students improve on the mats and in life.
Coaching focus
Fundamentals that hold up under pressure
Competition-ready details (when you want them)
Culture: consistency, humility, hard work
“Treat jiu-jitsu like a marathon—train smart, stay consistent, and you’ll reach your potential.”
Justin Hembree
Lead Instructor (No‑Gi Advanced) • Instructor (Gi Fundamentals)Coach Justin is known for strategic coaching that helps students stop guessing and start improving. He identifies strengths, cleans up weaknesses, and builds a reliable game through repeatable training habits.
Coaching focus
Systems, timing, and decision-making
Feedback you can apply immediately
Consistency without shortcuts
“Do the work, train consistently, and focus on what you control.”
Ann Bord
Lead Instructor (Kids Beginner/Intermediate) • Lead Instructor (Women’s Grace & Grit) • Head Coach (Prep Team)Coach Ann brings structure and heart. Her classes are organized, coach-led, and designed to build resilient, respectful students—on and off the mat. She’s especially strong at helping students break through mental barriers with clear tasks and confidence-building feedback.
Coaching focus
Safe, structured training and strong fundamentals
Confidence through competence (not hype)
Discipline, respect, and emotional control
“Small wins, done consistently, become real confidence.”
Morgen Pressley
Instructor (Kids Beginners + Little Warriors)
Coach Morgen builds confidence through encouragement, structure, and a simple message: hard work pays off. She focuses on helping kids feel comfortable, engaged, and proud of their progress.
Coaching focus
Helping kids feel safe + supported
Resilience, patience, and trust
Positive structure and consistent effort
“Be tireless and tenacious, courageous and gracious.”
Private Lessons (Add‑On)
If you want more individual attention, Private Lessons are available as an add‑on to your training. They’re great for:
Beginners who want a confidence boost and clear fundamentals
Busy adults who need focused progress fast
Competitors building a game plan, strategy, and sharp details
Kids who benefit from extra structure and coaching attention (when appropriate)
Tell us your goals, availability, and experience level. We’ll reply with options and next steps.
Private lessons are optional and never required to join.
Not sure which coach or class is right for you? Start here.
Brand new to jiu-jitsu: Start with Fundamentals (clear path, coached pace).
Want confidence + calm under pressure: Ask about a beginner onboarding plan.
Here to compete: Try Comp Class / Camp pathways.
Kids (3–16): Structured classes that build confidence, focus, and respect.
Women’s training: Ask about Grace & GritorGirl, Get Home Safe.
Tell us your schedule + goals. We respond with the best options for you.
Train with coaches who care about your results—and your experience.
No ego • All levels • Mount Pleasant, SC