MEET THE LEVERAGE cOACHES
Phillip Grapsas
•Head Coach • 3rd Degree Black Belt • Pedro Sauer Association
Over 23 Years Of Experience
Professor Phillip Grapsas is a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Head Instructor of Leverage Jiu-Jitsu Academy. With over 23 years of training and teaching experience, Phillip is recognised as one of Australia's most respected instructors. In August 2013, he became only the second Australian to earn a Black Belt under Master Pedro Sauer, reflecting his dedication to authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, practical self-defence, and technical excellence.
Phillip Grapsas
BLACK BELT - 3RD DEGREE
Head instructor Phillip Grapsas is a highly qualified black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Phillip has been a student of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for over 23 years. In August 2013, Phillip Grapsas became only the second Australian (second to Murat Karadenizli) to ever achieve the rank of Black Belt in the Pedro Sauer Association. An indication of his hard work, and dedication to the art as a method of self-defence.
Stephen Grapsas
BLACK BELT - 1ST DEGREE
Stephen started his Jiu Jitsu journey in 2011 and is an accomplished black belt, and a talented instructor.
"Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is the hardest thing i have ever attempted in my life, but the most rewarding. I believe everyone should practice Jiu Jitsu, as it is a Martial Art that works for everyone." - Stephen Grapsas
Savvas Klerides
BLACK BELT
Savvas is a knowledgeable Black belt that is passionate about teaching both children and adults.
"I met Phil in 2007, give or take a year, and he quickly introduced me to BJJ. After many years on/off due to Arthritis I found a way to continue training without the use of one-hand. I enjoy helping lower ranked belts as much as I can and giving back to Jiu Jitsu for all the positive benefits it has blessed me with." - Savvas Klerides
Roger Dio
BLACK BELT
Roger is a talented Black belt who started training in 2013. Roger is Leverage Jiu Jitsu Academies heart and soul- there's always a lot more fun and laughter in any class he attends!
GABI CALAFIORE
PURPLE BELT
Gabi started training at age 14 and knew from then that she was in it for the long haul. At age 23 she has 9 years of experience training, and 7 years of experience coaching. Gabi strives to make her classes fun and engaging, and puts a strong emphasis on creating games so that even the littlest kids can feel welcome and ready to train. Her favourite part of coaching is building connections with the kids and watching their confidence and technical skills grow. Outside of coaching, Gabi has reignited an interest in competing and enjoys pushing herself to be the best she can be.
“Being part of the Leverage family is truly the best thing that’s ever happened to me, I wouldn’t be who I am today without Phil and the whole team”
DALE OWEN
BLACK BELT
I walked into Leverage Jiu Jitsu at the age 27 having tried a lot of other different martial arts but after my first lesson I was hooked and haven't stopped train since.
