Our Mission
At Elevate Jiu Jitsu Academy, we empower individuals through the art of Jiu Jitsu by fostering discipline, resilience, and community in a supportive and inclusive environment.
We aim to inspire personal transformation by helping students of all levels achieve their goals and reach their highest potential, both on and off the mats. We center growth through dedication, adaptability, and mutual respect, fostering a culture of learning by way of collaboration.
We strive to create a legacy of empowered practitioners who embody respect, perseverance, and a passion for continuous improvement.
INSTRUCTORS
Justin Branch
Justin began training in Jiu Jitsu in 2006 under Orlando Waugh at the Texas Self Defense Academy. Earning his black belt in 2014, Justin further deepened his practice training at various gyms and often assisting in teaching classes.
Justin believes that Jiu Jitsu is not just about learning to compete, but about building people up
through the art.
Joel Arellano
Joel brings his experience beyond the mats as a Navy veteran and Firefighter. A Jiu Jitsu black belt under Kevin Lewis of Grapple Fight Team (GFT), Joel has won numerous victories in regional tournaments and podium finishes at IBJJF national and international competitions. He has proven himself as a high-level competitor. Joel combines technical mastery with a deep passion for teaching
Shawn Montgomery
Shawn brings a diverse background, drawing from his experience as a Combat Medic with the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division. During deployments in Kosovo and Iraq, Shawn developed adaptability, teamwork, and dedication skills. Shawn holds a purple belt. His technical skill and dedication make him a key contributor to Elevate's instructional excellence.
At Elevate Jiu Jitsu Academy, OUR WHY is rooted in building lasting relationships and cultivating a strong, values-driven community-centered martial arts environment in Grand Junction, Colorado.
We are committed to human development and personal transformation through Jiu Jitsu. We’re proud to share our experience—not just in Jiu Jitsu training, but in the values shaped by years of service to country and community. OUR PASSION is helping others grow, lead, and evolve through self-improvement and connection.
“Jiu Jitsu brings us together, but it’s the culture and relationships we build off the mat that make us stronger.”
OUR VISION is a vibrant Jiu Jitsu academy where people gather in a clean training facility that feels just as much like home as it does a place to train. We want to create a space where people not only come to improve their skills but also to recharge, connect, and belong. Whether you're dropping in for your first class, exploring youth Jiu Jitsu classes, checking out women’s Jiu Jitsu, or diving deep into our competition training programs, we’re here to support your journey.
Our programs mirror OUR VALUES of relationships, culture, and human development. We believe the ups and downs of Jiu Jitsu mirror the challenges of life. Therefore, Jiu Jitsu is our chosen vehicle for sharing our mission.
Elevate Jiu Jitsu Academy is growing in three phases, focused on quality over quantity, driven by community feedback, and always evolving to meet your needs.
We’re more than a place to train- we’re a place to grow.
Cheers – Justin, Joel, and Shawn