Featured affiliated academy: Rogue Wave Jiu-Jitsu, USA
Where is the gym located?
Our gym is located in Chico, California, USA, in Northern California near Bidwell Park and California State University, Chico.
How many people train there?
We currently have approximately 25 active students training regularly.
Is the gym growing – if so by how many new members each month or year?
Yes. The gym is steadily growing, averaging about 4–5 new members each month as more people in the community discover Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and its benefits.
What are the highest and lowest belt grades training?
We have students ranging from brand-new white belts all the way through black belt practitioners.
When did Rogue Wave Jiu-Jitsu, USA open?
The academy opened in September 2025.
Some facts about you:
Name: Stephen Gordon
Age: 41
Belt: Black Belt (awarded in 2023)
Profession: I work as a Home Care Manager, helping coordinate care and services for seniors and individuals who need assistance to remain independent. Outside of work, I run and teach at our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy.
Years in BJJ: 20
Other martial arts: Muay Thai kick boxing, MMA training and competition
Currently living in: Chico, California, USA
Originally from: Orange County, California, USA
Rogue Wave Jiu-Jitsu, USA
Please tell us the story of how your gym came into existence
Like many academy owners, I didn’t come from a full-time martial arts background. By day, I work as a Home Care Manager, and outside of work I dedicate my time to teaching and building our Jiu-Jitsu community. In many ways, both roles are about helping people improve their lives, gain confidence, and become more capable.
After training for over 20 years and earning my black belt in 2023, opening the academy was a natural way to share what Jiu-Jitsu has given me while helping grow the local martial arts community in Chico. I wanted to create the kind of training environment that I always appreciated throughout my own journey—a place where people could learn authentic Jiu-Jitsu in a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.
When I settled in Chico, I saw an opportunity to build a strong community centered around self-defense, personal growth, and technical Jiu-Jitsu. Our focus is on creating an environment where beginners feel comfortable, advanced students continue to grow, and everyone enjoys the process of learning together.
Tell us about the people that train in the gym – who are they?
Our students come from all walks of life. We have college students, teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, tradespeople, business owners, parents, and retirees. Some are interested in competition, while others simply want to learn self-defense, improve their fitness, challenge themselves, or become part of a positive community.
One of the best parts of the academy is seeing people who would probably never meet otherwise become training partners and friends.
Why do they train?
People come through the door for different reasons. Some want practical self-defense skills, some are looking for a challenging workout, and others simply want a new hobby. What keeps many of them training is the personal growth that comes with Jiu-Jitsu. It teaches resilience, humility, discipline, and confidence while creating strong friendships and a sense of belonging.
For many students, the academy becomes a second home.
Rogue Wave Jiu-Jitsu, USA
What are some of the challenges of running a BJJ gym in general, and in your area specifically?
One of the biggest challenges is helping people understand what Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu actually is. Many people still assume martial arts are only for professional fighters or elite athletes, when in reality Jiu-Jitsu is accessible to almost anyone.
In a smaller city like Chico, community outreach and education are important. We spend a lot of time introducing people to the art and helping beginners feel comfortable taking that first step onto the mats.
How do you see the future for BJJ in your area?
The future looks very bright. Every year more people discover the benefits of Jiu-Jitsu, whether for self-defense, fitness, competition, or personal development. As awareness continues to grow, I expect to see more families, professionals, and young people getting involved and helping strengthen the local Jiu-Jitsu community.
What’s the best thing about your gym?
Without question, it’s the people. We have built a culture where everyone is welcomed, encouraged, and challenged to improve. There is a genuine sense of camaraderie on the mats, and students are invested in each other’s success. That culture is what makes the academy special
What would you recommend Globetrotters to see in your area apart from the inside of your gym?
A visit to Chico isn’t complete without exploring Bidwell Park. With miles of trails, swimming holes, and beautiful scenery, it’s one of the best outdoor destinations in Northern California. Visitors should also spend time downtown, which has great local restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. If you enjoy the outdoors, the surrounding foothills, lakes, and mountain areas offer endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring California’s natural beauty.
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