PROFESSOR
DANIEL ALMEIDA
Professor Daniel is a distinguished leader in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, recognized for his extensive journey which includes outstanding coaching, respected refereeing, and a legacy filled with champions. As the head coach and visionary of Gold Coast Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he has nurtured a culture of excellence. His journey began in Brazil, training under Professor Bruno Bastos at Nova União, a notable name in the international Jiu-Jitsu community. Joining Team Lead, created by Professor Bruno, he took on the role of head coach for the Australian division.
With more than 27 years committed to Jiu-Jitsu, Professor Daniel's impact is significant. In addition to his accolades, he is revered as one of Australia's top referees, enhancing his contributions to the sport. Under his expert mentorship, many champions have come forth, achieving state, national, and world titles. His competitive background has bolstered his expertise and accomplishments, which include:
NAGA World Champion
IBJJF No-Gi World Championship Double Bronze Medalist
Asian Champion
6-time Australian Champion
4-time IBJJF Pan Pacific Champion
Numerous other prestigious titles
Professor Daniel firmly believes that Jiu-Jitsu is accessible to everyone. This philosophy forms the foundation of his coaching approach, solidifying his reputation as a respected and influential figure in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, both within Australia and globally.
João tamayo
Coach
João began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2007 at Alliance BJJ in São Paulo, Brazil, earning his purple belt in 2012 before pausing to pursue an engineering degree and weightlifting after moving to Australia in 2018. Picking up where he left off as a purple belt, he reignited his passion for Jiu-Jitsu in 2021. Training under Professor Daniel Almeida, he achieved his brown belt in 2024.
With a background in discipline from his time in the Brazilian Army, João brings a dedicated and fitness-oriented approach to his coaching. His teaching style focuses on effective submissions, rapid transitions, and explosive techniques, helping students build skill and confidence on the mats.
HERNAN FERNANDEZ
NO-GI COACH
Hernan's journey through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. It all began in Santiago de Chile, where he took his first steps onto the mats. After two years of hard work and countless hours of training, he proudly earned his blue belt, marking the beginning of his journey into the intricate world of grappling.
Determined to push himself further, Hernan sought new challenges and opportunities to grow. He ventured to the south of Chile, immersing himself in the local BJJ community. It was there that he honed his skills and rose to the rank of purple belt, solidifying his place as a formidable competitor.
With his sights set on new horizons, Hernan moved to Australia and found Gold Coast Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where he earned his brown belt under Professor Daniel in April 2024. Under Professor Daniel Almeida's guidance, Hernan flourished, becoming an integral part of the team. His dedication paid off, winning gold at the QBJJ Championship and earning two silver medals at the Byron Comp. Now, he also serves as the No Gi coach on Fridays, further contributing to the community's growth and success.
JAKE SHALLY
Coach
Jake Shally is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt with nearly a decade of experience on the mats. Starting his martial arts journey in 2016 with a focus on MMA and BJJ, Jake gravitated toward the technical and strategic nature of Jiu Jitsu, making it his primary discipline.
Jake is a four-time AFBJJ Australian National Champion in both Gi and No-Gi, and has collected numerous gold medals on the local QBJJC and Grappling Industries circuits. His competitive success reflects his dedication to the art and his deep understanding of the game.
He has trained extensively both in Australia and overseas, sharing the mats with world-class athletes including André Galvão, Lucas Barbosa, Keenan Cornelius and Josh Hinger.
Jake brings a no-nonsense approach to coaching, prioritising effective guard passing, takedowns, and submission-focused Jiu Jitsu. He specialises in developing advanced practitioners, helping serious students refine their game for high-level performance.
DOUG ALVIA
KIDS’ COACH
Doug's journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began in November 2020 as one of the founding members of GCBJJ under Professor Daniel, marking the inception of a remarkable chapter in his life. Doug has progressed significantly since those early days, achieving milestones like winning local competitions and recently earning his purple belt. BJJ has not only honed Doug's skills but also instilled in him invaluable life lessons in patience, problem-solving, and resilience, proving useful beyond the mat.
Camaraderie and support within the tight-knit community of GCBJJ have been foundational to Doug's journey. Whether celebrating victories with friends or contributing to the gym's growth, Doug finds profound fulfilment in being part of this supportive community. Today, Doug's involvement extends beyond training; he now plays a role in teaching kids' classes, passing on the knowledge and passion for BJJ to the next generation under the mentorship of Professors Daniel and Rian.
JORDYN ALLEN
COACH & GYM MANAGER
under Professor Daniel Almeida. Her dedication and talent quickly shone through, earning her a blue belt just a year later, in November 2021, and her purple belt in December 2024. Along the way, she showcased her skills in local competitions as a white and blue belt, securing numerous gold and silver medals and even triumphing in state championships.
As a passionate advocate for women's participation in martial arts, Jordyn leads the women-only Jiu-Jitsu sessions at the gym. Her approach creates a welcoming and empowering space for female practitioners to learn, grow, and gain confidence on the mats.
Beyond her role on the mats, Jordyn serves as the gym’s manager, overseeing the business side of operations. From memberships and scheduling to marketing and events, she ensures the gym runs smoothly and continues to thrive as a supportive community hub.
Marley Gleaves
KIDS’ COACH
Marley's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey since November 2020 has been remarkable. Under Professor Daniel "Jacaré" Almeida's guidance, he quickly immersed himself in the sport, showcasing dedication and perseverance. Before earning his juvenile blue belt in December 2024, Marley achieved multiple state and national championships, including a gold medal at the prestigious Pan Kids competition.
Transitioning from student to coach, Marley now assists Professor Daniel in teaching older kids' classes and offers personalized training sessions for aspiring young competitors on weekends. His commitment to nurturing the next generation embodies martial arts' spirit of sharing knowledge and fostering community.