About
At SJJA, we offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs for kids (ages 5+), teens, and adults of all experience levels. Whether you’re stepping onto the mats for the first time or preparing for your next major competition, our curriculum is designed to help you progress with confidence. Classes include fundamentals, advanced training, competition preparation, private lessons, and practical self-defense, with plenty of guided mat time to develop your skills.
WHY TRAIN WITH US?
With over 29 years dedicated to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and more than 35 years in martial arts, Professor David Stegman (5th Degree Black Belt) leads our academy with unmatched experience and genuine passion.
He has coached champions, mentored beginners, and built a thriving community in the heart of Seattle for over a decade. More than just a coach, David is committed to helping every student—from their first class to black belt—grow on and off the mat.
What also sets us apart is our community. Our students are an essential part of the learning process—new members are welcomed, supported, and encouraged every step of the way. From your first class onward, you’ll have a team around you ready to help you succeed, share knowledge, and celebrate your progress.
A PLACE FOR GROWTH, CHALLENGE & COMMUNITY
Training at SJJA is more than learning techniques—it’s about overcoming obstacles, achieving goals you never thought possible, and forming lasting bonds with your teammates. Jiu-Jitsu transforms both body and mind:
Build confidence and resilience
Improve fitness and mobility
Learn real, effective self-defense
Become part of a strong, supportive community
Ready to Start?
Getting started is simple. Try a fundamentals class through our trial program—no experience or gear required. We’ll provide a clean uniform and belt so you can step on the mats with confidence and experience what makes SJJA different.
Visit Us in Historic Georgetown
Seattle Jiu-Jitsu Academy is located in the iconic original Rainier Brewery building, a historic landmark in Seattle’s Georgetown neighborhood. Our unique setting adds character to your training experience while keeping us connected to the city’s rich history.
Professor David Stegman
Professor David Stegman
5th Degree Black Belt, Owner & Head Instructor
One of the most experienced and accomplished Black Belts in the area, David has been training in martial arts for over 30 years. He earned Black Belts in Tae Kwon Do and Ni-Goju Karate before focusing exclusively on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu starting in 1996, receiving his Black Belt in 2006 from Carlos Machado. David has achieved multiple gold medal wins in the Masters divisions while competing in prestigious events such as Fight 2 Win, The World Masters Championships, U.S. Open, and Pan-American, and Grappling Industries. Along with traveling to train with some of the top BJJ practitioners in the world, he is continually improving his skill as an instructor, coach, and student. His love and dedication, along with his life experiences on and off the mat, make his teaching philosophy strong and his style passionate.
Black Belt Lineage: Kano > Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie Sr. > Carlos Machado > David Stegman
A true lifetime martial artist, David is committed to growing, learning and sharing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with others and guiding them towards their goals! Come in and see why Seattle Jiu-Jitsu Academy (SJJA) is Seattle’s Premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy.
