Sean Spangler

Sean “The Strangler” Spangler: Journey of a BJJ Black Belt, Coach, and Gym Owner

Sean Spangler is a highly accomplished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner with three stripes on his black belt, a decorated coaching career, and an impressive list of championship titles. As a devoted athlete, his transformational journey began on the wrestling mats in high school and college, where he competed at NC State under Hall of Famer coach Bob Guzzo.

Following his passion, Spangler transitioned to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1996 and was mentored by legendary practitioners John Lewis, Andre Pederneiras, Marc Laimon, and Robert Drysdale. Through dedication, consistent competition, and relentless training, he earned his black belt in 2009 from Robert Drysdale.

Ambitious to bring his expertise to the BJJ and Grappling community, Professor Spangler opened an academy in 2014, where he thrives on developing promising new talents. Though competition was once his primary focus, he has observed that the significance of the sport varies for each individual. As both coach and gym owner, Professor Spangler now emphasizes the profound impact that BJJ can have on its practitioners, regardless of their aspirations.

Today, his purpose lies in cultivating the skills and techniques of young children and newcomers to the martial arts community. Professor Spangler takes pride in fostering a welcoming and nurturing learning environment, where students are encouraged to grow and honor the values that the sport instills – from discipline and self-mastery to camaraderie and perseverance.

Through his incredible journey from wrestler to dedicated BJJ practitioner, Professor Spangler has truly redefined his purpose as a leader in the martial arts community.

Jason Hollowell

2024-03-05

I train at another gym nearby in Durham. I messaged the owner Sean Spangler to say I’d like to drop in last Friday. He and the students were welcoming and friendly - they didn’t try to rough me up, although the rounds were tough. I learned several good details, both from the instructional portion and later while sparring with more experienced partners. Sean ended up flow rolling with me for two rounds (some gym owners don’t or won’t roll with visitors). They also strive to keep the mats clean , which is a good sign for any gym. It was a good experience, and I hope to return in the future.

Haile DeBass

2023-11-04

Awesome spot and jiu jitsu.

Gio V

2023-10-21

Coach Sean is excellent! He helps all the kids learn and pushes them to be the best version they can be. My 6yo has been in this academy for 6 months and he loves it. Can’t wait for my 2yo to grow up to put her in 😂.

Deborah Fredrick

2023-09-08

My son has been training here since last December; he began at a particularly challenging time with his ADHD. When I first shared that information with Sean he shared a similar personal experience. Then after reading his blog, I was confident this was the place for my son. I didn’t look for other gyms. My first impression was that this is unlike any other martial arts gym I have experienced. It felt clean! The kids are not waiting around for their turn. There are not big kids teaching younger kids. All of the coaches are adults skilled with compassion, engagement and discipline. Over the last 8 months, I have seen my son grow muscles, confidence and determination. Sean and his team of coaches are committed to the personal development of each of these kids that goes far beyond the physical skills and demands of jiu jitsu. I now know that there are what seem to be a million jiu jitsu gyms between JJPA and my house, but I won’t give them another thought because my son has a home. When you join JJPA you become family.

Swanand Vaze

2023-08-31

This is the best place to learn Jiu Jitsu. Prof Sean is really dedicated teacher who makes learning very interesting and exciting. My 7 year old is now a student for over an year and he loves it. Highly recommended!!

Brian McCuiston

2023-08-30

My daughter has been attending for 4 months... and she loves it. She has confidence in her abilities... and looks forward to new sessions and challenges. Would reccomend this school to any parent.

Josh Kinlaw

Professor Sean provides a welcoming, instructive, active, and enjoyable program for kids and adults. My 5 and 7-year-old have both enjoyed learning BJJ and making friends. I love how active the class is and how they focus on a particular move for several lessons to give the kids time to learn it. They spend at least half of the class rolling with a partner. It’s great for practicing the move or position they are leaning, and for getting their energy out.

Patrick Dmytriw

2023-08-28

My son, 8, has been going there for almost 2 years and it’s been a great experience for him. The teachers care about their students and put in the time and energy to help them better themselves. Truly a quality school.

Rosalie

We have been coming here since December 2022 and my son has really enjoyed the program. The academy really feels like a close community where everyone cares to help and support each other.

Tim Gregory

2023-08-23

My only regret is not joining Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy sooner. As a 39 year old beginner I quickly became addicted to this sport and that is in large part due to this gym. Sean and every other instructor there are amazing teachers and they also set the tone for what is an awesome community and environment. Everyone there, instructors and students, has such a positive attitude. I have felt welcomed since day one. There are opportunities to train everyday of the week, morning or night, no matter your skill level. Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy really is a great place to train.