At THEORY Jiu-Jitsu, you're not just learning techniques
THE 'THEØRY' METHOD
At THEØRY, we believe that progress thrives in the right environment. Our mission is to create a highly focused, collaborative space where individuals don’t just train—they level up together. Every session is designed with intention: cultivating real skill, sharper problem-solving, and deeper understanding of the grappling arts.
We are not a gym of random roll sessions. We are a curated community, where every member contributes to the collective growth. Our culture values safety, trust, and the art of refining technique over brute intensity. As the group grows stronger, each person’s progress accelerates.
This is a place for people who believe in learning as a shared journey, and who understand that real progress happens when we elevate each other.
NOT YOUR TYPICAL GYM. HERE'S WHY...
| OVERVIEW | THEØRY JIU-JITSU | Typical Gym |
|---|---|---|
| Month-to-Month Flexibility | ✅ No contracts. Stay because you love it. | ❌ 6–12 month lock-ins regardless of fit. |
| Vetted Community | ✅ Every member is vetted for attitude and vibe fit. | ❌ Anyone with money can join. Toxic personalities slip in. |
| Hands-On, Collaborative Coaching | ✅ Direct feedback every class. Coaches are engaged on the mats with you. | ❌ Coach often is distracted. Group left to “figure it out” through random rolls. |
| Transparent, Skill-Based Rank Progression | ✅ Clear technical benchmarks. You’ll know exactly what’s expected. | ❌ Surprise belt promotions, vague criteria, often time-based regardless of skill. |
| No Hierarchy Worship | ✅ No bowing, no belt worship. Respect is mutual, not demanded. | ❌ Hierarchical (lining up by belt rank) instructor-worship cultures. Formalities over function. |
| Open-Source Learning | ✅ Encouraged to explore methodologies from any instructor | ❌ Discouraged to try anything that is not taught by lead instructor or affiliation |
| Supportive, Safe Training Culture | ✅ Trust-based rolls. We “roll the brakes off” when trust is earned. | ❌ “Sink or swim.” Beginners often smashed with no regard for learning pace. |
| Optimized for Fast Progression | ✅ Small curated classes. Focused reps. Safer, faster improvement. | ❌ Chaotic open-door mats. Random intensity. Progress varies wildly. Injuries sky-rocket. |
| No Drama. No Politics. No Agendas. | ✅ No gym drama. No belt politics. No religious, political, or social agendas. Just Jiu-Jitsu and mutual growth. | ❌ Drama, cliques, belt politics, or subtle culture war energy creeps in. Members may feel pressured to align socially beyond the mats. |
OUR INSTRUCTORS
LEVI VAN STAPPEN
Owner, Head Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Hey everyone! I’m Levi Van Stappen, the head instructor and founder here at THEORY Jiu-Jitsu. I’ve been on the mats for over 20 years and hold a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a 3rd Degree Black Belt in American Freestyle. I’ve spent most of my life immersed in martial arts, but what keeps me coming back isn’t just the techniques — it’s the never-ending puzzle of Jiu-Jitsu. Every class is a new opportunity to grow both mentally and physically, and I love that.
But what really lights me up is the community we’re building here. THEORY isn’t just about learning to grapple — it’s about belonging to something meaningful. It’s about becoming more confident, more resilient, and more aware. Whether you’re here to train for fun, self-defense, or competition, my goal is to help guide you on that journey and support you every step of the way. I can’t wait to see how far we all go together on this path.
JORDAN LASTER
Head Wrestling Coach
Hey there! I’m Jordan Laster, and I’m proud to be the wrestling coach here at THEORY Jiu-Jitsu. Wrestling has been a huge part of my life — I competed at the NCAA Division 1 level during my time at Princeton University, where I was a three-time national qualifier. I’ve trained and competed with some of the best in the country, and now I get to share that knowledge with you.
What I love most is helping people discover what wrestling can add to their Jiu-Jitsu or self-defense game. Whether you’re brand new or looking to sharpen your takedowns and control, my coaching style is all about building you up, step by step. Outside the gym, I’m into fitness, tech, and occasionally dabble in coding — but I’m happiest when I’m on the mats, helping others level up. I look forward to training with you!
OUR AFFILIATION: ISLAND TOP TEAM
THEORY Jiu-Jitsu is proudly affiliated with Rob Biernacki and Island Top Team, a globally respected organization based in British Columbia, Canada. Known for pioneering concept-based Jiu-Jitsu instruction, Island Top Team is at the forefront of technical precision and innovation in the grappling world.
This affiliation ensures our students have access to a curriculum that’s not only modern and evolving, but also grounded in biomechanical principles and strategic clarity. As part of the Island Top Team network, THEORY benefits from cutting-edge methodology, ongoing curriculum updates, and a global standard of excellence that’s reshaping how Jiu-Jitsu is taught and learned around the world.
Got Questions?
We've Got You.
What should I wear to my first class?
Just wear comfortable workout clothes — shorts, leggings, or joggers and a t-shirt or rashguard. We train No-Gi, so no special uniform is needed.
Do I need to be in shape to start?
Nope! You don’t need to be fit or flexible. Our classes are beginner-friendly, with scaled movements and a safe, supportive pace.
Is Jiu-Jitsu safe for total beginners?
Yes. Our intro sessions are designed to be welcoming, slow-paced, and hands-on. No sparring or rolling your first day — just learning and moving.
Can I bring a friend or family member?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring someone to train or even just to watch your first class.
What if I’ve trained before?
Awesome — we’ll meet you at your level. We love helping returning grapplers refine their fundamentals and rediscover their rhythm.