More than just a Brazilian jiu-jitsu gym!

In the heart of Hemet, California, nestled among the bustling streets and vibrant community, lies a haven unlike any other: the legendary Roger Carpenter American Jiu-Jitsu Academy.

Stepping through its doors feels like entering a realm where dedication, camaraderie, and the art of jiu-jitsu converge. The academy, embraced by the warmth of the Californian sun, echoes with the spirited hum of passionate individuals pursuing their martial arts journey.

The walls are adorned with the rich history of this art form—a tapestry woven with the tales of triumph, resilience, and unwavering perseverance. Portraits of revered masters hang alongside images capturing the victories of the academy's warriors, each frame a testament to the dedication and discipline cultivated within these very walls.

The mats, a canvas for movement and mastery, witness a symphony of techniques blending seamlessly—a fusion of artistry and athleticism. Here, beginners find solace in the guidance of seasoned instructors, patient mentors who nurture every novice's potential, fostering growth one lesson at a time.

The atmosphere pulsates with a sense of community; friendships are forged through sweat and shared challenges. Every practitioner, from the white belt neophyte to the seasoned black belt veteran, embodies the academy's ethos—respect, humility, and continuous improvement.

Beyond the physicality of the sport, Roger Carpenter American Jiu-Jitsu Academy embodies a holistic approach to self-improvement. It's not merely about learning techniques but embracing a mindset—an ethos that transcends the mats, seeping into everyday life. Students discover their inner strength, cultivate resilience, and develop a mindset that extends far beyond the confines of the academy.

The academy's doors are wide open, welcoming newcomers with open arms. For those seeking to embark on a journey of self-discovery, physical fitness, and the artistry of jiu-jitsu, RCAJJ Academy stands as a beacon—a place where individuals evolve, grow, and become part of a tight-knit family bonded by their love for this ancient martial art.

Our History

Roger Carpenter's journey into the world of jiu-jitsu was a tale woven with dedication, resilience, and an unyielding passion for the art. His story began in 2010, a time when the seeds of his martial arts odyssey were sown at Gracie Barra.

Under the guidance of skilled instructors and amidst the camaraderie of fellow practitioners, Roger found himself immersed in the intricacies of jiu-jitsu. Hours on the mat became his sanctuary, each session a step closer to mastering the art form that ignited a fervor within him.

The years unfurled like chapters in a book, each one marking a milestone in Roger's progression. In 2013, after five years of relentless training, he proudly adorned his purple belt, a testament to his dedication, sweat, and perseverance. His mentor, Adam Figurski, had witnessed Roger's evolution and deemed him worthy of this honor.

The pursuit of mastery propelled Roger forward, and in 2018, at Gracie Humaita, under the guidance of the esteemed Omar Salum, he earned the revered brown belt. With each belt, Roger's love for jiu-jitsu deepened, his commitment unswerving.

The pinnacle of his journey arrived in 2020 when Roger achieved the coveted black belt—an emblem of his unwavering dedication and profound understanding of the art. However, this was not the zenith; it was merely a launching pad for his next endeavor—a dream that had been nurtured within him since the beginning of his jiu-jitsu voyage.

Roger harbored an aspiration to impart his knowledge, to create a space where others could discover the transformative power of jiu-jitsu. Fuelled by his passion and guided by a desire to share his expertise, he envisioned his own academy.

Driven by a thirst for diverse experiences and learning, Roger embarked on a journey to Miami, Florida. There, he spent a week training under the tutelage of the renowned Cyborg, an experience that not only honed his skills but also earned him the trust and mentorship of a legend in the sport.

Empowered by Cyborg's teachings and inspired by his mentorship, Roger returned to California, where he realized his dream. Fight Sports So Cal came into existence—a haven where students could learn, grow, and be mentored under Roger's guidance.

Roger Carpenter dedicated two and a half years to refining his skills under the Fight Sports Club banner, proudly representing the team in both local and national competitions. His pursuit of further growth led him to seek out a local mentor, and from this search, his relationship with Combat Base began to flourish. As of September 2024, Roger was officially welcomed into the Combat Base family, now under the mentorship of Chris Haeuter, a legend in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community and one of the first Americans to earn a black belt in the art.

Roger sought mentorship from Combat Base not only for the local support it offered him but also for the benefit of his students. This relationship allows Roger to bring Chris Haueter in for seminars, tap into his extensive knowledge, and access a strong network of sister schools and experienced black belts within the organization—all while maintaining his own identity and independence as RCAJJ.

Teaching became his passion, competitions a platform to showcase his artistry, and raising his family a source of unending joy. Roger Carpenter, the man whose journey through jiu-jitsu was marked by dedication, perseverance, and an unbridled love for the sport, had become not just a practitioner but a beacon of inspiration for those who walked the path of martial arts.

News

Latest News