THE TEAM
Building Confidence, One Roll at a Time - Coaches Who Care Skills That Protect.
PROFESSOR ROBERT ZORLU
Founder
Professor Robert Zorlu is a Gracie Barra Black Belt with experience training under both Helio and Carlos Gracie lineages, as well as exposure to 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu.
After 15 years in corporate leadership and training development, he transitioned full-time to Jiu Jitsu, bringing a deep passion for self-defense, discipline, and community to every class.
MARKO D.
JIU JITSU
Coach Marko Djoric is a Brown Belt under Professor Robert Zorlu at Tao of Jiu Jitsu. Originally from Serbia, he began training in Judo, Aikido, and kickboxing before discovering his passion for BJJ in Los Angeles.
After a life-altering motorcycle accident and amputation, Marko’s dedication to Jiu Jitsu only grew. He now coaches students of all ages and abilities, with a special focus on adaptive training and inclusivity.
MARKO E.
ADULT JIU JITSU
Coach Marko E. is a seasoned BJJ brown Belt with over 13 years of experience on the mats. Having trained under multiple world champions, he brings a wealth of high-level technique and insight to every class. For the past 4+ years, Coach Marko has been a cornerstone of the TOJJ academy, where he leads both gi and no-gi programs with a focus on fundamentals, flow, and real-world application. Known for his technical precision and patient coaching style, Coach Marko is dedicated to helping students of all levels grow in skill, confidence, and mindset - on and off the mat.
HAYDEN B.
KIDS JIU JITSU
Coach Hayden began training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as an adult, seeking a healthier, more meaningful lifestyle — and quickly found a lasting passion.
Coach Hayden earned her purple belt under Steve Baca, with prior training under Roberto 'Spider' Traven and Bruno Frazatto. She has now earned her brown belt under Professor Robert. Early success in competition, including multiple IBJJF gold medals, helped shape Hayden’s journey.
Now, with a deep love for working with kids, Hayden brings energy, empathy, and a growth mindset to every class.
AMBER G.
KIDS JIU JITSU
Coach Amber is a 3-stripe purple belt under Professor Christian Bello. A Jiu Jitsu "addict" since joining after her son started training, Coach Amber fell in love with the art and now coaches women, kids, and teens with passion. Emphasizing mobility, self-defense, confidence, community, encouragement, and responsibility in her classes.
Coach Amber is Budokon-trained and integrates yoga and mobility into her coaching. She thrives in high-intensity workouts and loves physical challenges, dabbling in MMA, calisthenics, CrossFit , and yoga. As a mom of three sons, Coach Amber brings a balance of encouragement, nurturing, and productive leadership to every class.
Coach Amber aims to build people up, unlock potential, and boost self-esteem through Jiu Jitsu, embracing the beauty of the community.
MARTIN D.
ADULT/JUNIORS MUAY THAI
Coach Martin, also known as "The Boogeyman", is an active Muay Thai fighter and dedicated coach with years of experience in both the ring and the gym. Known for his technical precision and relentless style, Martin is passionate about preserving and passing on the traditions of authentic Muay Thai.
Whether coaching beginners or fighters, he brings intensity, discipline, and deep respect for the art to every session.
JASON R.
TINY TACKLERS | JUNIORS
Coach Jason is a Jiu Jitsu blue belt under Professor Robert Zorlu with a well-rounded background in both Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai. A dedicated competitor, he has earned multiple gold medals and brings that same focus to his coaching.
He plays an active role in kids' classes, helping young students build confidence and sharpen their skills, all while continuing to push himself in competition and growth.
NICK D.
TINY TACKLERS | JUNIORS
Coach Nick is a Jiu Jitsu blue belt under Professor Robert Zorlu with a background in boxing and Muay Thai. His well-rounded skill set reflects a deep commitment to growth in Mixed Martial Arts.
An active competitor in both Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai, Nick also plays a key role in the kids' program, leading youth sessions and helping students grow in a supportive, focused environment.
ADRIAN O.
WRESTLING | KIDS JIU JITSU
Coach Adrian is a Jiu Jitsu blue belt under Professor Robert Zorlu and the head wrestling coach at our academy. With a background in wrestling, Jiu Jitsu, and Muay Thai, he brings a well-rounded, technical approach to both stand-up and ground fighting.
Adrian also plays a key role in our youth programs, creating a motivating environment where students of all levels can grow. His passion for teaching and leadership helps athletes build strong foundations in both wrestling and Jiu Jitsu.
Hector s.
MMA
Hector Santana is a lifelong martial arts practicioner having trained for 27 years in 9 different arts. (Judo, Sambo, Kyokushin Karate, BJJ, Boxing, Muay Thai, American Folkstyle Wrestling, Catch Wrestling, and Kendo) He has competed in MMA, Muay Thai, BJJ, Judo, Sambo, and Wrestling. Using his vast experience he aims to teach both the theory and science behind his system as well as a direct application of the arts to both sport and self defense specific scenarios. He has completed his undergraduate degree at Penn State and obtained his M.S. in Data Science from CUNY SPS.
RUTH N.
TINY TACKLERS | JUNIORS JIU JITSU
Coach Ruth brings a lifelong athletic background—from competitive skiing in Canada to college soccer—to her Jiu Jitsu journey. Drawn to both the challenge and community, she found a second home at Tao of Jiu Jitsu under Professor Robert.
She embraces the art with discipline, perseverance, and a focus on growth—both physical and mental. As a coach, Ruth is dedicated to supporting and inspiring students at every stage of their journey.