Trainers

Our team is headed by Daniel Pilewski but consists of a number of other, dedicated individuals to keep things running smoothly. Our staff is friendly, experienced, and dedicated to the art of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

Jason Smith

Assistant Coach
Brown Belt

Jason has been training at Relson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy Connecticut since 2014, earning his purple belt in mid-2017. Jason trains most week-nights and often interrupts his own practice to walk his teammates through a technique. He has as much enthusiasm for teaching others as he does for improving his own abilities, making him a valuable member of the team.

Jose Pacheco

Assistant Coach
Brown Belt

Jose is a highly skilled and dedicated martial arts instructor with an impressive 29 years of experience in various disciplines.  Jose has trained in Jeet Kune Do, he holds a second-degree brown belt in Jiu Jitsu, a second-degree black belt in kempo Karate and he has devolved into the world of kickboxing.  Furthermore, Jose has dedicated time to learning Filipino martial arts, which include a wide range of techniques and weaponry. His expertise in this discipline adds an exciting dynamic to his classes, teaching students the art of self-defense with weapons and the principles of close-quarters combat.   With his extensive background and experience in multiple disciplinaries, he is able to provide a diverse and engaging training experience for his students. His commitment to helping them unlock their full potential and become empowered individuals.

Marty Pirog

Assistant Coach
Brown Belt

Marty has been training at Relson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy Connecticut since early 2015 and is currently a brown belt. While we may not have an official staff picture for him yet, don’t let that fool you into thinking that he’s any less important than our other trainers! Marty is quick to jump in and help whenever needed, often before we can even ask. He has a fun personality and does a great job helping new members feel welcome.

Drew Violette

Assistant Coach/Youth Coach
Purple Belt

Drew started training at Gracie JJ CT in 2019 as a blue belt and earned his purple belt in 2023. Coaching the kids class has become his passion as well as cornering anybody looking to compete. Drew prides himself in making a fun training environment any time he is on the mats!

Ian McMahon

Assistant Coach
Brown Belt

Ian has been training at the Relson Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy since 2019 as a purple belt. “My previous school closed down and I was looking for a school that fostered a friendly and safe atmosphere along with good technique, instruction, and a place that everyone was free to roll at their own pace.” He is currently an Army Combatives Level I & II instructor and a US Air Force Security Forces Combatives instructor. He has been in the Air National Guard for over 19 years. Ian mainly attends the afternoon classes and has a focus for defenses and escapes.