About Your Leader : Coach Jen
Certified Gracie University Instructor | Women’s Self-Defense & Trauma-Informed Jiu-Jitsu Expert | Program Director at Gracie Largo West
Coach Jen is a highly respected Gracie Jiu-Jitsu instructor and self-defense expert with over a decade of experience empowering women, children, and families through practical, proven, and trauma-informed martial arts instruction.
She is a Certified Gracie University Instructor in both Women Empowered and Gracie Combatives, as well as — making her one of the most qualified women’s self-defense instructors in Florida.
Coach Jen has been training in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu since 2014 and specializes in:
Self-defense for women
Jiu-Jitsu for children ages 3–7
Preteen girls’ empowerment and confidence training
Trauma-informed martial arts instruction
Fitness kickboxing classes for fun, strength, and movement
Realistic fight simulation training for self-defense readiness
At Gracie Largo West, she leads the largest and fastest-growing women’s Jiu-Jitsu program in Florida, offering a
safe, supportive, and empowering training environment designed by women, for women.
🔒 Trauma-Informed. Survivor-Led. Safety-First.
As a survivor of domestic and narcissistic abuse, Coach Jen brings lived experience, compassion, and credibility to her teaching. She knows firsthand what it takes to heal, reclaim power, and move through the world with confidence. She has developed and executed her own exit and safety strategies — and now helps other women do the same with precision and care.
Her classes are built around consent-based instruction, emotional safety, and concept-based learning, giving students the tools they need to learn quickly and respond effectively under stress.
🎓 Academic Background
Coach Jen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Criminology from the University of South Florida, giving her a unique edge in understanding both the psychology of violence and the mindset of attackers. This insight adds depth, strategy, and realism to every technique she teaches.
🥋 Competition Credentials
Coach Jen has successfully competed in several respected Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, including:
IBJJF No-Gi Worlds Silver Medalist (2018) – Masters Division
IBJJF No-Gi Worlds Bronze Medalist (2019) – Masters Division
Additional competition experience in IBJJF, NAGA, Newbreed, and Copa events
💬 Her Message to Women & Parents:
“Real women’s self-defense isn’t learned in a one-hour seminar. It takes time, consistency, and safe, trauma-aware instruction. At Gracie Largo West, we’re here to help you or your child feel strong, confident, and truly prepared — in body and mind.”
🌟 Program Development & Industry Leadership
Coach Jen is also a leader in martial arts business development, helping other schools across the U.S. grow thriving, female-focused programs that are safe, respectful, and inclusive.
