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LOCAL COUPLE OPENS NEW JIU-JITSU ACADEMY IN SIERRA VISTA



Apostle Jiu-Jitsu, a family-owned martial arts academy, is preparing to celebrate its grand opening this Saturday, September 14th, at 10 a.m. in its new location on Fry Boulevard. Founded by husband-and-wife team Abi and Josie Hernandez, the academy has experienced rapid growth from starting as a small operation in their home garage into a thriving school with over 50 students and a waitlist.



Abi Hernandez, known as "Coach Abi," is not only the owner and head instructor but also a law enforcement officer and National Registered Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT). He is a second degree brown belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) and brings over 12 years of martial arts and mixed martial arts (MMA) experience. Abi has spent more than 10 years instructing BJJ to the general public, as well as to current and retired law enforcement officers and military personnel.



The celebration will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. with special guests, Mayor Clea McCaa and Councilwoman Marta Messmer. “We’re honored to have city officials join us to celebrate,” Josie said. Apostle Jiu-Jitsu will host open mats for adults starting at 10:30 a.m., offering visitors the chance to meet with several guest black belt athletes who are flying in for the occasion. As part of the event, the academy will be raffling prizes donated by local businesses, with all proceeds going toward funding a full year of jiu-jitsu tuition for a local child. “We’re committed to giving back to the community and ensuring that any child who wants to learn jiu-jitsu has the opportunity, regardless of financial situation,” Josie added.



In continuation of their community-focused mission, Apostle Jiu-Jitsu will host a special fundraiser in collaboration with Gunny’s food truck on Monday, September 16th, from 4-6 p.m. Proceeds from the event will help provide free jiu-jitsu tuition for children from low-income families, giving them the opportunity to learn valuable self-defense skills and the discipline that comes with martial arts training.



Coach Abi has competed in several Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments and continues to embody the philosophy of "Always Learning." He has attended numerous seminars to deepen his expertise. Abi extends his experience beyond the academy to free self-defense seminars for law enforcement officers. 

His teaching philosophy is rooted in the Greek word apóstolos (Apostle), meaning "one who is sent out with a mission." His mission is to spread his passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, helping students learn the art of self-defense while fostering personal growth and resilience.


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