I've been training with head coaches Nick Spencer and Steve Spencer for a year and a half now. Nick, my original fundamentals coach, is a phenomenal instructor. Both Nick and Steve are not only kind, patient, and knowledgeable but also absolute badasses on the mats. You don't have to take my word for it—step into the gym yourself, and you'll be welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm. Then look up on the walls, and you'll see the hundreds of medals these gentlemen have won as active competitors at high level competitions.
I was fortunate to join a new class for beginners right as it started, and Nick did more than anyone to get me started, addicted, and comfortable in the complex game of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Even as an inexperienced white belt, Nick showed me his game, answered endless questions, and helped me develop my own style that fit my body, age, and goals. Steve as a training partner and mentor started early in helping me develop a competition mindset. The brothers' passion for BJJ is infectious, and the lessons I learned in my first months are still being refined over a year later.
Every Friday, I commute from Beacon to Snake Hill just for the welcoming and supportive training environment. The camaraderie is second to none, and I leave sore, sweaty, and always having learned something new. There's an incredible group of guys who training at snake hill, whether you're a beginner looking to learn or a more advanced student seeking hard rolls—both will be there for you.
The gym itself is impressive. The mats are the nicest I've ever rolled on, and there's a clean, green, light-drenched feel to the whole space. Nick, Steve, and their father—a wrestler who competed against Dan Gable and now hangs out offering encouragement and refreshments—create a friendly, family-oriented vibe with a killer mindset.
If you're anywhere in the area, I highly recommend joining Snake Hill Jiu Jitsu. The hardest step is walking through the door. If, like me, you do NOT have a background in wrestling, judo, or combat sports, don't worry about it. Neither did Nick or Steve when they started many years ago, and they don't expect you to either. Just get in there and start training. You’ll wish you had...
   Read moreLet me start by saying I have a long history with Coach/Owner Nick Spencer so I have had the luxury of seeing him grow as a mentor, athlete, and a friend. He really cares and is just genuinely a great person and that’s what you want in a coach. He’s always growing and evolving along side you. His brother Steve Spencer, what can I say, just an amazing human as well. Always inviting and supporting. Both are very inspiring and truly have made a HUGE impact on me especially as someone who struggles with self esteem and just believing in one’s own potential, they always make me feel like I can do it and that I do have potential. So if you’re looking for a family vibe, this is the place. If you’re looking to become a shark, this is the place. I have a very long history of training in the 845, trust that and believe me when I say this...
   Read moreWhere do I even begin? Walking into Snake Hill Jiu Jitsu feels like coming home. The vibe is infectious – you're greeted with smiles and great vibes from the moment you step through the door. The instructors are not just teachers; they're mentors who genuinely care about your growth on and off the mats. Nick and Steve have treated me like family over the years and are such genuine humans. And let's talk about cleanliness – this place is spotless. You could eat off the mats (although, probably best not to). It's not just about learning techniques here; it's about embracing a culture of respect, support, and constant improvement. Trust me, once you experience the magic here you'll wonder why you didn't start sooner. Five stars...
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