When local media shines a light on our academy, it’s really shining a light on the people who make it special: our students, families, and the wider Rancho Bernardo community. Recently featured by SDVoyager, Professor Bruno Albuquerque shared the journey that brought him from Rio de Janeiro to San Diego and the vision behind building a family-first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy rooted in lineage, discipline, and community.
A Spotlight on Passion and Purpose
For Professor Bruno, Jiu-Jitsu has always been more than a sport—it’s a lifelong pursuit. Decades of training in both Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu shaped not only his technical expertise but also his teaching philosophy: Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a parent enrolling your child, or a seasoned athlete, the same principles apply—safety, structure, and steady progress.
That philosophy is what SDVoyager found newsworthy: a coach whose purpose is bigger than medals or accolades. The real measure of success is watching students grow more confident, resilient, and respectful on and off the mats.
From Rio to Rancho Bernardo: Opening in 2018
Soca BJJ San Diego opened its doors in 2018 with a simple, ambitious goal: to build more than a gym—to build a community. Rancho Bernardo proved to be the perfect home base. While we welcome students from across North County (Escondido, Poway, 4S Ranch, Sabre Springs, and beyond), the atmosphere inside our academy feels like a neighborhood dojo where everyone knows your name.
From day one, Professor Bruno set the tone: clean mats, clear expectations, and a curriculum that meets students where they are. New students immediately notice the blend of professional structure and friendly atmosphere—a place where coaches lead with care and teammates help you learn faster.
Lineage Matters: Under Master Alexandre “Soca”
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, lineage is more than a family tree; it’s a commitment to standards. Professor Bruno earned his black belt in 2009 and today is a 4th-degree black belt under Master Alexandre “Soca” Freitas, a Coral Belt, 11x world champion, and respected instructor known for technical precision and a culture of excellence.
That lineage shapes everything we do in San Diego: the order in which we teach techniques, the emphasis on fundamentals, the focus on safety and mutual respect, and the expectation that higher belts mentor those behind them. When you train here, you become part of a broader Soca BJJ network carrying those same values forward.
Programs for Every Stage of the Journey
We designed our schedule so students can grow through clear stages, at any age:
- Kids BJJ (Gi & No-Gi): Classes that build coordination, focus, and character. Children learn to be safe partners first, then confident problem-solvers. Parents often share how these lessons carry over into home and school life.
- Adults Fundamentals: A welcoming starting point if you’re new (or returning after a break). We cover essential positions, escapes, and controls, with drills that prioritize safety and understanding.
- Adults Advanced: For those who have mastered the basics and want to expand with higher-level sequences, strategy, and tailored live training.
- No-Gi Submission Grappling: Learn how to apply your Jiu-Jitsu without the kimono. These classes sharpen timing, body awareness, and pressure in a faster-paced environment.
👉 Explore the full class schedule here.
What Makes Our Culture Different
- Safety First. Situational awareness, controlled movement, and safe training partners.
- Family-First Environment. Families often train side by side, cheering each other on.
- Inclusivity by Design. Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone—kids, teens, adults, and seniors.
- Accountability & Respect. We bow on and off the mats, clean up after ourselves, and practice gratitude for teammates.
- Results Beyond the Mats. Students report better sleep, reduced stress, stronger routines, and greater confidence in daily life.
A Day on the Mats: Your First Class
- Arrive early—we’ll give you a quick tour.
- Warm up with purposeful movements you’ll use during class.
- Learn techniques step by step with a partner at your level.
- Drill, apply, and build confidence.
- Leave class energized, calmer, and smiling.
Why Start Now?
There’s no perfect time to begin—only the decision to take the first step. Jiu-Jitsu rewards consistency more than intensity. Just two or three classes a week can transform your fitness and mindset.
Your Invitation: Book an Intro Class
The best way to experience Soca BJJ San Diego is to step onto the mats yourself. Bring a friend, watch a class, and talk with our coaches and students.
📞 Call: (858) 900-6500
📍 Location: Rancho Bernardo, San Diego
👉 Explore programs & schedule
Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, competition, or simply a healthier routine, we’re here to help you take the first step.
See you on the mats!
