Transforming Training Spaces: Zebra’s Collaboration with Gracie Smeaton Grange
At Zebra, we are passionate about creating state-of-the-art training environments, and our partnership with Gracie Smeaton Grange is a shining example of this commitment. Located in the Macarthur Region, Gracie Smeaton Grange offers transformative Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) training for both adults and kids, enhancing their physical and mental strength through this intricate martial art.
Elevating the Art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Discover the Art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at Gracie Smeaton Grange
Often described as “physical chess,” BJJ is a martial art that relies on precision and leverage rather than pure strength. This allows students of all ages to confidently grapple with larger opponents. Training in BJJ at Gracie Smeaton Grange instills core values such as discipline, courtesy, integrity, self-confidence, and self-control, enriching lives both on and off the mats. Children who practice martial arts tend to be more confident in school and less likely to engage in fights, while adults benefit from improved physical and mental health.
Creating a Premier Training Facility
Our Shared VisionAt Zebra, we share the same core values as Gracie Smeaton Grange, making our collaboration seamless. Both parties were driven by a common goal: to create an environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential. This shared vision was the foundation of our partnership, ensuring that every decision and effort was aligned towards achieving excellence.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The project was particularly exciting due to the scale and quality of the facilities. With over 700m² of mat space, the training area is expansive and state-of-the-art, providing ample room for students to practice and hone their skills. This large, well-designed space not only accommodates a high number of students but also allows for a variety of training activities to take place simultaneously, enhancing the overall learning experience.
Commitment to Excellence
Attention to DetailOur commitment to offering the best possible environment for martial arts education is reflected in every aspect of the facility. From the high-quality mats that ensure safety and comfort to the thoughtful layout that promotes effective training sessions, every detail was meticulously planned and executed. This dedication to excellence underscores our belief in the transformative power of martial arts and our desire to support a community that values discipline, respect, and continuous learning.
Building a Community Hub
Working on this project was an incredible experience for the Zebra team. It was not just about constructing a physical space but about building a community hub where individuals of all ages can come together to learn, grow, and support each other. We are proud to have played a role in creating a facility that will serve as a cornerstone for martial arts education in the region. Our collaboration with Gracie Smeaton Grange has been a testament to what can be achieved when like-minded organizations come together with a shared purpose and vision. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this facility will have on the community for years to come.
Expert Instructors
Alex Prates
Finding the right instructor is crucial for success in martial arts. Alex Prates, a 4th degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt, brings his extensive experience in both BJJ and Mixed Martial Arts to the Macarthur Region. Alex’s attention to detail and dedication to helping students improve their game make him an exceptional instructor. Children benefit from having a positive role model who inspires respect and discipline, while adults gain from Alex’s years of strategic, technical, and experiential knowledge.
Robert Whittaker
Robert is the first Australian fighter to win a UFC Championship World Title. He holds a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and has a very high level of striking experience with a background in Karate & Hapkido. His extensive martial arts and combat experience includes Freestyle Wrestling, Boxing, and Kickboxing. Robert also has wins against some of the world’s greatest fighters within the UFC. He is still active in competition and coaches some of our Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and Wrestling classes.
Jacob Malkoun
Jacob has a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and is a current UFC fighter in the middleweight division. He has high-level experience competing in boxing and wrestling as well. His achievements include wins against international opponents in MMA, even before his UFC career, and national podium placings in Freestyle Wrestling. Jacob also won his weight division at the 2019 ADCC Asian & Oceania Region Jiu-Jitsu Submission Grappling tournament in Tokyo, Japan. He is currently actively competing in the UFC and coaches classes for our kids and adults in Jiu-Jitsu and Wrestling programs, MMA, and Self Defence.
Isi Fitikefu
Isi has a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and is an accomplished Professional MMA fighter currently representing Tonga and Australia in the ONE Championship. Isi holds two MMA Championship belts as ‘Eternal MMA’ and ‘Superfight MMA’ Champion. Isi also is a well-rounded Freestyle Wrestler who has national podium finishes. He is currently active in competition and coaches classes within our MMA and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Boxing, and Kickboxing programs.
Jayden Lawrence
Jayden Lawrence is an Olympic Freestyle Wrestler with over two decades of experience. Jayden has trained and competed across the world at the highest levels. He has competed three times at the Commonwealth Games, winning a medal for Australia in 2022. Jayden won the Bronze Medal at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. Jayden represented Australia at the World Junior and World Senior Championships. He has also competed at the Youth Olympics. Locally, Jayden is a multiple-time National Champion and Oceania Champion. He is a passionate Coach and an active Athlete at Camden Valley Wrestling. Jayden is motivated to pass on his Wrestling knowledge to the students and teammates.
As of late he challenged himself on the biggest stage by competing at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games
Embark on your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey at Gracie Smeaton Grange and experience the transformative power of this incredible martial art!
