Our Instructor

Larry Shealy - 4th Degree Black Belt


Professor Larry Shealy is a dedicated martial artist and the lead instructor at Hendo BJJ. With a journey that began in November 1994 at a Rickson Gracie Seminar in Jacksonville, FL, Larry has devoted his life to mastering and teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). He is a 4th degree Rigan Machado black belt and a certified Rigan Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor.

Larry's teaching extends beyond the traditional scope of BJJ. He has shared his knowledge with the military, including the Marines, Army, and Navy, as well as local police and the S.W.A.T. team in Jacksonville Beach, FL. Alongside his wife Gail, he has trained hundreds of women in self-defense tactics, empowering them to take control of their safety and well-being.

After successfully running a BJJ Academy in Neptune Beach, FL since 2005, Larry moved with his family to Hendersonville, North Carolina in the fall of 2019. He is now the owner and main instructor at Hendo BJJ, which opened in December 2021.

Larry is a taskmaster on safety and proper jiu-jitsu technique, known for his passion for training and his love for his students. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing from Florida State University and an MBA from Jacksonville University in Management/Marketing. Despite a successful career in medical device sales and sales management, Larry's true passion lies in serving the Lord and helping others through the Art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.our text here...

Our Coaches

At Hendo BJJ, our coaches are the heart of our academy. They are not just experienced martial artists but passionate educators dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential.

Each of our coaches brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the mat. They are continuously learning and evolving as martial artists and teachers to provide the best possible training for our students. They understand that every student is unique, and they are adept at tailoring their instruction to meet individual needs and goals.

But beyond their technical expertise, our coaches are known for their ability to inspire and motivate. They foster a positive and supportive training environment where students feel valued, challenged, and empowered. They are committed to helping students improve their BJJ skills and build confidence, discipline, and resilience that will serve them in all areas of life.

(This page is under construction and will be updated with names/pictures shortly.)

Parent Coaches

At Hendo BJJ, we believe in the power of family and community. That's why we're proud to have a team of dedicated parent coaches who bring a unique perspective to our academy. These individuals are not just experienced martial artists; they're parents who understand the challenges and rewards of introducing children to the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. They are committed to creating a safe, fun, and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Our parent coaches are a testament to our belief that Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art; it's a family affair.

(This page is under construction and will be updated with names/pictures shortly.)

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