REGISTER HERE FOR A FREE TRIAL CLASS

Come and discover our various programs and services.
Begin your Jiu-jitsu journey!

GRACIE BARRA LIBERTYVILLE

Gracie Barra is one of the most trusted names in martial arts today. Our values, commitment to excellence and dedication to Jiu-Jitsu have set us apart as a leader in the Libertyville martial arts community.

Gracie Barra is no ordinary martial arts organization. Students enjoy access to over 700 Gracie Barra Schools worldwide, professional-quality Jiu-Jitsu gear and online resources to further their training. We promote a holistic perspective to Jiu-Jitsu, including physical and mental wellness. 

REVIEW US ON GOOGLE

Google
J B profile picture
J B
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I am in town for a week and had to get some training in so I called and they said come on in. Treated me like I was a member. Extremely welcoming. Felt like home away from home. The mats are awesome spring boards! Wish I lived here bc I would for sure become a member. Glad I chose to call them first instead of the other jiujitsu academies nearby.
Google
Anton Kaye profile picture
Anton Kaye
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I've taken my son's here for almost 3 years and Professor Scott is amazing with young kids
Google
Dina Miller profile picture
Dina Miller
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Amazing place! The staff is incredibly friendly, especially the two ladies at the front desk—Coach Marleen and Coach Edyta, who are both exceptionally knowledgeable. Coach Scott is fantastic with the kids, and the entire coaching team is top-notch! It’s a great environment to learn self-defense for both kids and adults. The facility is clean, spacious, and even has a weight room. Come be a part of this wonderful jiu-jitsu community!
Google
Sam profile picture
Sam
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I’ve been training here for about a year, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The staff is not only highly professional but also incredibly courteous, ensuring all your training needs are met. The professors and students alike create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes every session enjoyable.
Google
Garrett Grana profile picture
Garrett Grana
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Been coming here over 4yrs. Prof Jamil, Prof Scott, Prof Chris, Prof Sergio and all the other staff will take you as far as you want to go. My kids have been all over the country and love this sport. Bring your kids and yourself and make some time for your family to train and grow in the sport together. You won’t regret it.
Google
Edyta Pavulska profile picture
Edyta Pavulska
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Outstanding facility ( always clean, showers accessible, big changing rooms, lots of place for parents to watch their kids ) very dedicated instructors and inclusive of all levels of learning. Myself and my kids ( 12yrs and 6yrs ) love the place, coaches and professors. Adults, teens and kids programs offer maximum benefits, including discipline, mental focus, stress relief and physical fitness.
Google
Corey Goltz profile picture
Corey Goltz
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Took my kids 11 & 13 here today. What an awesome facility, but the staff make the place what it is. Professor Scott treated the kids with respect and kindness. Front desk staff treated us like we were family despite just meeting them today.

JIU-JITSU PROGRAMS AT GB LIBERTYVILLE

Our GBK program introduces kids to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, focusing on discipline, respect, and self-confidence, all in a fun, engaging environment tailored to young learners.

The GB1 program is designed for beginners, teaching the core principles and techniques of Jiu-Jitsu. It’s ideal for students new to BJJ, helping them build a strong foundation and boost fitness and self-discipline.

GB2 is for students ready to elevate their skills, focusing on more complex techniques and sparring sessions. This program deepens knowledge and prepares practitioners for higher-level challenges in BJJ.

Our GB3 program is for seasoned practitioners with advanced skills, focusing on mastery, personal growth, and refinement of techniques. It’s a path toward the Black Belt. Come to Gracie Barra Libertyville.

Schools around the world
0
Black belts formed
0
Years of history
+ 0
Continents
+ 0

SCHEDULE

Click below to view our comprehensive class schedule. Find the group that seamlessly integrates into your daily routine and suits your personal needs.

OUR BLOGS

Kids Jiu-Jitsu in Libertyville: Academic Discipline

How Jiu-Jitsu Helps Kids Build Academic Discipline in LibertyvilleModern education presents unique academic and social demands for young students. Children face increasing digital distractions, standardized testing pressures, and complex social

September 4, 2026

Jiu-Jitsu in Libertyville: Develop a Growth Mindset at Gracie Barra

Jiu-Jitsu in Libertyville: Develop a Growth Mindset at Gracie BarraLearning a new discipline requires more than physical effort. Indeed, true progress stems from a fundamental shift in perspective. Many local

August 12, 2026

Back to School Confidence: Anti-Bullying BJJ in Libertyville

Back to School Confidence: Anti-Bullying BJJ in LibertyvilleThe start of a new academic year brings excitement and fresh opportunities for local students. However, the back-to-school season can also create anxiety

August 5, 2026

Jiu-Jitsu Belt Progression System – Gracie Barra Libertyville

Understanding the Jiu-Jitsu Belt Progression System at Gracie Barra LibertyvilleEarning a new belt in martial arts represents a major milestone of personal achievement. Many residents in our community seek structured

July 29, 2026

Premier Kids Extracurricular Activities in Libertyville – BJJ

Top Extracurricular Activities for Kids in Libertyville: The Power of Martial ArtsSelecting the best extracurricular activities for children is an important responsibility for modern parents. Today, families seek activities that

July 22, 2026

INSTRUCTORS AT GB LIBERTYVILLE

Each one brings a unique blend of skill, experience, and passion to their teaching. Whether you’re looking to start your journey or elevate your skills, our instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s meet the professionals who will inspire and challenge you to reach your full potential!

PROFESSOR JAMIL SALIM FAKHOURY

Professor Jamil Salim Fakhoury has been training under Professor Carlos Lemos Jr. (Escorrega) for over 11 years. In that time Master Fakhoury has won numerous Jiu-Jitsu titles. Master Fakhoury in that time also cross trained in Judo, Wrestling, kickboxing, and MMA. Professor Fakhoury has a vast knowledge in Gracie Barra Self Defense and Instructing. 

PROFESSOR CHRIS MCLEOD

Professor Chris was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. He started is Jiu-Jitsu training in 2009. Professor Chris received his Black belt in August of 2017 from his Professor, 10x World Champion and 2013 ADCC World Champion Romulo Barral. When Professor Chris is not training or teaching he works as a certified surgical technologist at a Level 1 trauma hospital.

PROFESSOR SCOTT CLOSE

Professor Scott is on the mats everyday learning and sharing the BJJ fundamentals and brings positive energy and enthusiasm to each and every class. Professor Scott leads the Gracie Barra Kids Program and completed the Gracie Barra ICP Program (coaching certification). With over 30 years of grappling and martial arts experience. Professor Scott is an asset and inspiration at Gracie Barra Libertyville.

coach Gerry Contreras

Gerry Contreras is a Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt Coach and active competitor dedicated to developing students through technical excellence, disciplined training, and the core values of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As an instructor within the worldwide network of Gracie Barra he brings a structured and professional coaching style focused on helping students of all experience levels build confidence, skill, and resilience on and off the mats.

Professor Daniel Stittgen

Professor Daniel Stittgen is a black belt with over 20 years of experience in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and mixed martial arts. Throughout his career, he has trained alongside some of the sport’s top competitors and established himself as a seasoned professional with more than 18 years of MMA competition. During that time, he has earned multiple titles in both mixed martial arts and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Known for his no-nonsense approach to training, Professor Daniel emphasizes practical, high-percentage techniques that translate across all contexts—self-defense, grappling competition, and mixed martial arts alike. His teaching style is rooted in a battle-tested, combat-ready approach to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, focusing on efficiency, control, and real-world application.
As a coach, Daniel is committed to helping students of all levels develop skill, confidence, and a deeper understanding of jiu-jitsu in a disciplined and supportive environment.

STAY UPDATED WITH OUR SOCIAL MEDIA AND FOLLOW ALONG