Our Classes

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. It's often described as a game of human chess, where technique and leverage can overcome brute strength. BJJ promotes problem-solving skills, patience, and respect, making it an excellent choice for all ages and fitness levels.

  • Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing, is a striking art that uses punches, kicks, elbows, and knees. Known as the "Art of Eight Limbs," it combines power, speed, and precision. Muay Thai is great for those looking to enhance their cardiovascular health, flexibility, and overall strength while learning effective self-defense techniques.

  • Boxing is a dynamic and disciplined sport also known as “the sweet science",” where two athletes compete using their fists, protected by gloves, to strike their opponent. It's a test of intelligence strategy, and physical endurance, offering a full-body workout that builds both physical and mental resilience. Perfect for those looking to improve their fitness and learn self-defense in a structured environment.

  • COMING AUGUST 2025. The women only class is a BJJ class open to women of ALL levels. Led by a female instructor, this class is a great place for women to find community in a male-dominated sport. Small children are welcome to come with you :)

  • We offer private training sessions for serious MMA athletes to improve on specific skills or conditioning leading up to a fight. Contact Clay for details!

  • We do not yet offer kids’ classes. Children 14 and up are welcome to join our adult classes with parental consent. Younger children may be considered on a case-by-case basis if the parent is also training. Depending on community engagement we look to add a kids class signing up 10 kids maximum. The goal is to teach and mentor martial artists with our full attention and guidance into this great sport.

  • Clay is a dedicated martial arts and conditioning coach with over 12 years of experience. His training philosophy is person-centered, emphasizing a solid foundation in wellness. Clay holds a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Renzo Gracie 4th Degree Black Belt Tim Mannon and serves as the head kickboxing instructor at Team Mannon BJJ Academy in Blacksburg, VA. His full list of credentials is as follows:

    • Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

    • Head kickboxing instructor at Team Mannon BJJ Academy

    • Experience with professional and collegiate athletes.

    • USA Boxing registered Coach.

    • Certified Personal Trainer (NETA)

    • (CVFO) Certified Veterans Fitness Operative

    • Graduate of University of Health and Performance

    • M.A. Counseling & Executive Leadership

    • Bio Force Strength and Conditioning Certified Coach

    • Board of Directors Together With Veterans SWVA

    • Board of Advisors Veteran Bushido Brotherhood

    • OIF-OEF Army Infantry Veteran

  • Coach Alicia Arneson Surratt

    Alicia Arneson Surratt brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program. As a Pan American Games silver medalist, Alicia has demonstrated her exceptional skill and dedication on an international stage. With eight years of competitive experience, she has honed her techniques and strategies to perfection.

    Alicia is not only a seasoned competitor but also a Ph.D. candidate, showcasing her commitment to continuous learning and academic excellence. She has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over a decade and holds a purple belt under the esteemed 4th degree Black Belt Professor Tim Mannon of Renzo Gracie lineage.

    Her extensive training and competitive background make her an invaluable asset to our club. Alicia's passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is evident in her teaching at Team Mannon as the women’s class coach, where she fosters a supportive and challenging environment for all students. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner, Alicia's guidance will help you reach your full potential in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

  • Coach Kaila "Kai" Reeves

    Kaila "Kai" Reeves is the driving force behind our Muay Thai program. As a special operations veteran, Kai brings unparalleled discipline, resilience, and tactical expertise to his coaching. His military background has instilled in him a deep understanding of physical and mental conditioning, making him an exceptional mentor for our students.

    Kai has been training martial arts for an impressive 42 years. He holds a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and is a Certified Muay Thai coach through the Muay Thai University under the renowned Ajarn Buck Grant. His extensive martial arts experience is complemented by his service as an Army Special Operations medic, where he gained extensive medical and counterintelligence knowledge.

    Kai's passion for Muay Thai is evident in his teaching style, which combines rigorous training with a supportive and motivating environment. He emphasizes the importance of technique, power, and precision, ensuring that each student develops a strong foundation in the "Art of Eight Limbs."

    With his unique blend of combat experience and dedication to the sport, Kai is committed to helping students achieve their personal best, whether they're training for fitness, self-defense, or competition. His leadership and expertise make him an invaluable asset to our club.

Our Coaches