COACHES AND EXPECTATIONS

Our coaching team is made up of experienced, supportive instructors who are not only passionate about jiu-jitsu and on their own path to continuous progression, but they also care deeply about your child’s development.

They focus on confidence, discipline, and respect, while creating a safe, positive environment where children can learn, grow, and enjoy jiu jitsu.

MEET OUR COACHES

Chris Heaney

Head Coach

Chris is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and former MMA fighter.

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Matt Harris

Academy Manager & Coach

For Matt, Jiu jitsu isn’t just about training, it's about who you become in the process.

Matt is the academy manager and a coach at Haslemere Jiu Jitsu. He’s a father of three and brings that perspective into everything he does on the mats.

For Matt, jiu jitsu isn’t just about learning techniques. It’s about helping young people develop confidence, self-control, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. He’s particularly passionate about supporting children as they navigate challenges, build resilience, and learn how to carry themselves with respect and discipline.

Matt is known for his steady, encouraging approach. He understands that every child is different — some jump straight in, others take time — and he meets them where they are, helping them grow at their own pace.

As a coach and academy manager, Matt takes pride in building a community parents can trust — a place where children are challenged, supported, and guided by strong role models who want the best for them, both on and off the mats.

All coaches are DBS-checked, trained in child safety, and committed to providing a fun, structured learning environment.

Richard Oakley

Assisting Head Coach

Jiu-Jitsu to Rich is has been training Jiu-Jitsu for over 8 years now.

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Samuel Step

Coach

He believes in the power of community.

Sam has been training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for over four years and was drawn to the sport through his love of the UFC, podcasts, and the deeper side of martial arts culture. From his very first session, he was hooked.

He recently earned his purple belt — a milestone that represents years of consistent effort, learning, and growth.

While progression and achievement are rewarding, what truly keeps Sam on the mats is the camaraderie, friendships, and sense of community that jiu jitsu creates.

Sam believes jiu jitsu is far more than a workout. It builds confidence, discipline, and connection in a way few activities can. Despite how it may look from the outside, he sees jiu jitsu as a supportive, welcoming environment where people learn and grow together.

He loves sharing what he’s learned on his journey and is especially passionate about helping young people build confidence and enjoyment through jiu jitsu.

WHY WE SET BEHAVIOUR EXPECTATIONS

Clear expectations help children feel safe, supported, and confident in new environments.

They provide structure, support learning, and ensure everyone can enjoy their time on the mats.

Our approach isn’t about being strict or heavy-handed. It’s about teaching respect, awareness, and self-control in a positive, age-appropriate way.

OUR THREE GOLDEN RULES

1. Drink lots of water
Staying hydrated helps children feel better, move better, and enjoy training more.

2. Have lots of fun
Jiu jitsu should be challenging, but always enjoyable. Smiles matter.

3. Be kind to yourself and others
Learning takes time. We encourage effort, patience, and support for teammates.

These three rules help create a positive environment where children can learn, grow, and enjoy the process together.

FIRST WEEK EXPECTATIONS

Session One: Settle In

The only expectation for your child’s very first session is simple: show up and get involved in whatever way feels comfortable.

Some children jump straight in. Others observe, take their time, or warm up slowly. Both are completely normal. We never force participation — our job is to help every child feel safe, included, and confident enough to engage.

If your child seems shy, overwhelmed, distracted, or not listening perfectly, please don’t worry. This is part of the adjustment process and something we are very experienced in supporting.

Sessions After That: Build Confidence

As the weeks go on, children naturally begin to relax, engage more fully, and enjoy the structure of the sessions. Confidence grows through familiarity, repetition, and encouragement — not pressure.

Our focus is always on steady progress, positive experiences, and helping each child find their confidence in their own time.

HOW YOU'LL KNOW IT'S WORKING

Over the first few weeks, many parents notice:

- Increased confidence
- Better emotional control

- Improved listening and focus
- Willingness to try new things
- Pride in effort, not just results

Progress looks different for every child, but small changes add up quickly.