The Jiu-Jitsu Academy of Southern Maryland
A premier martial arts academy offering expert-led Jiu-Jitsu and Judo training for all levels.
The Jiu-Jitsu Academy of Southern Maryland is located in 20695, White Plains, United States of America.
The Jiu-Jitsu Academy, Inc offers structured martial arts training with a strong emphasis on discipline, technique, and personal development. The Jiu-Jitsu Academy, Inc operates as a dedicated facility for both Jiu-Jitsu and Judo practitioners, supporting skill growth across multiple martial disciplines.
The club maintains official affiliations with the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and the United States Judo Association (USJA), ensuring standardized curriculum and recognized belt progression.
Instruction is led by experienced martial artists, beginning with John Coller, who serves as Senior Instructor.
John Coller holds the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt, Jiu-Jitsu, USJA, reflecting decades of dedicated training and leadership.
He is supported by Jeff Mathews, an Instructor with equal standing in the art, who also holds a 4th Degree Black Belt in Jujitsu under renowned instructor Sean McBroom.
Their combined expertise provides a robust foundation for both technical mastery and character development. Bill McElhaney serves as Senior Judo Instructor, bringing over 25 years of experience in training and competition.
Bill McElhaney holds the rank of Nidan (2nd Degree Black Belt) in Judo, demonstrating a deep commitment to the sport and its pedagogy.
His leadership shapes the club’s Judo programme, which emphasizes throws, groundwork, and competitive readiness in alignment with USJA standards.
The club welcomes practitioners of all levels, from beginners to advanced martial artists, and fosters a supportive environment for long-term growth.
Training sessions integrate both traditional martial arts values and modern instructional methods, ensuring relevance for today’s students.
Members benefit from a curriculum grounded in federation guidelines, allowing for seamless participation in gradings and competitions.
The integration of Jiu-Jitsu and Judo under one roof enables cross-training opportunities and a well-rounded martial education.
The Jiu-Jitsu Academy of Southern Maryland in White Plains has earned a 4.9/5 rating from 42 reviews, reflecting strong satisfaction among students and families.
Parents consistently praise the instructors for being patient, welcoming, and effective with children, noting visible improvements in confidence, discipline, and physical coordination.
The academy offers structured, engaging classes that balance technical training with life skills, making it suitable for beginners of all ages.
Families appreciate the inclusive atmosphere, with several mentioning positive experiences training together and highlighting the supportive culture among students and staff.
Instructors like John, Josh, and Beau are frequently commended for their knowledge, approachability, and ability to create a safe, non-intimidating learning environment.
While one negative review raises concern about how a young child was handled during emotional distress, the overwhelming majority describe the gym as friendly, well-run, and highly recommendable for those seeking jiu-jitsu, judo, or MMA training in a family-friendly setting.
Frequently Asked Questions

Photo sourced from the club's public listing.








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Address
4474 White Plains Ln suite b, White Plains, MD 20695
United States of America
Phone
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