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.