Who we are
Valkyrie Grappling Academy was founded on the belief that martial arts should empower people both on and off the mats. More than just a place to train, our academy is a community where discipline, respect, and resilience grow alongside technical skill.
Established by Coach Raq, whose vision was to create a safe and welcoming space for everyone, the academy continues to grow. We’re proud to now have Coach Gianni on the team, bringing his experience in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and a teaching style that makes complex techniques clear and practical. Together, they guide students through the traditions of Judo and the strategies of Jiu Jitsu, building strong foundations while encouraging growth at every level.
Whether your goal is to build confidence, improve fitness, learn self-defense, or test yourself in competition, Valkyrie Grappling Academy provides a supportive environment where kids, teens, and adults of all levels can thrive.
welcoming Coach Gianni - JIU JITSU
Coach Gianni is a first-degree jiu-jitsu black belt training under Professor Mica Cipili, a 6th-degree black belt and world, Pan American, and national champion. He joined Valkyrie Judo to expand his takedown game and met Coach Raq there.
He’s worked very hard and has grasped judo like second nature. Through his grit and resilience, he quickly became a leader on the team, and Coach Raq saw the potential to do something big with someone who shared that same spirit. She proposed a partnership to make Valkyrie an awesome grappling school, and the rest is history. Gianni brings a powerful blend of technical proficiency and real-world discipline to Valkyrie Grappling Academy, where judo and jiu-jitsu unite to form well-rounded grapplers who can excel in any situation—standing, on the ground, gi or no-gi.
With more than 19 years in law enforcement, Gianni has served as a SWAT operator, overseen the Police Academy, and worked as a Defensive Tactics instructor. His career in public service instills a deep appreciation for discipline, respect, and teamwork—principles that permeate his coaching and the academy culture. Gianni comes from a family of public servants; he has two brothers in law enforcement, and his experience as a parent of a young jiujiteiro informs his patient, resilient coaching style. At Valkyrie Grappling Academy, he helps bridge traditional judo values with grappling techniques, empowering students to become confident competitors and capable self-defenders.
Meet Coach Raq
Coach Raq is a dynamic leader and passionate advocate for youth and veterans.
As a USA Judo Certified National Coach with the rank of Shodan, and a jiu-jitsu purple belt, she has trained and competed under the esteemed Sensei Joseph Marchal, a U.S. Judo Olympian, and Sensei Kevin Butler, a Judo and Jiu-Jitsu World Champion. Coach Raq’s commitment to discipline and excellence shines through her extensive experience as both a judoka and a coach for individuals of all ages.
A proud combat veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Coach Raq has served her country with honor. Her military background is particularly inspiring, as three of her four children are currently on active duty, underscoring the family’s strong dedication to service.
Coach Raq dedicates her time to giving back, supporting organizations like the We Defy Foundation, which empowers veterans through jiu-jitsu training, and mentoring kids and friends in her community.
Outside her professional and philanthropic efforts, Coach Raq is passionate about her family and traveling the world, always eager to experience new things. Her multifaceted life reflects her unwavering dedication to service, community, and personal growth, making her an inspiring role model for those around her.