Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Rooted in West Town
West Town is our own community area. The academy sits on the Chicago Ave corridor, and students come from all along Chicago Ave and Grand Ave. When we say neighborhood gym, we mean it. Brazil 021 is a Chicago jiu-jitsu academy with morning, evening and Saturday classes.
Our team is led by co-founders Hannette Staack, a 7x World BJJ Champion and 3x ADCC Champion, and Andre “Negão” Terencio, a 6th-degree black belt and longtime IBJJF head referee. Black belts Vinicius “Machine” Pereira, Sharon Gosun and John “JT” Thompson round out the staff.
Never trained before? Fundamentals is the place to start. You will learn basic positions, escapes and how to move safely with a partner, then build from there at your own pace.
Getting to Our BJJ Gym From West Town
The #66 Chicago Ave bus runs east and west right along Chicago Ave, and the #49 Western Ave bus runs north and south on Western, just east of the academy. The Blue Line’s Chicago and Division stops serve West Town as well, and you can connect to the #66 from there.
Street parking is available on Chicago Ave and the side streets.
BJJ West Town Chicago Classes for Adults and Kids
From your very first class to competition training, there is a path for you. Kids learn discipline and confidence in age-based classes.
For West Town parents, kids classes run Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings. Kids learn discipline, respect and confidence while having a lot of fun.
- Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals for beginners, Gi and No-Gi
- All Levels, Advanced and a midday Advanced Competition Class
- Kids Jiu-Jitsu for ages 3–6 and 7–12
- Law Enforcement / First Responders: Sat 1:00 PM
- Private lessons with a black belt, by appointment
Fun, Safe and Welcoming
Most students start as hobbyists and stay because of the people. Classes are structured, sparring is controlled, and nobody is left to figure things out alone.
Questions before you come in? Call (866) 977-7021 or email [email protected], and the team will help you choose the right first class for you or your child.
Brazil 021 Chicago holds a 4.9-star rating from 80 Google reviews, with 78 of them five-star. Come see why with a free first class.
