The Fox Valley area of Wisconsin isn't exactly known as a hotbed for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts or Boxing. So to be sure our training is the best it can possibly be, we've teamed up with Nationally and Internationally known instructors to help in program development and training quality.
Rodrigo Vaghi - 4th Degree Black Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Rodrigo Vaghi started his training in Judo at the age of 4 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He trained with Sensei Yamata; the Japanese champion until the age of 10. He continued training in Judo with Sensei Jorge Medhi, winner of several national and international titles, until the age of 16. Rodrigo was the Rio de Janeiro State Judo champion for 5 consecutive years, from 1979 to 1984.
Rodrigo started his Jiu-Jitsu at the age of l4, in the original Gracie Academy in Rio de Janeiro. Vaghi's instructors were Grandmaster Helio Gracie and his sons: Rickson, Royce, Royler and Rolker.
After 14 years of training with the Gracie Family, Rodrigo has become a family friend and black belt instructor representing the undisputed champion of the Gracie's: Rickson Gracie.
Rodrigo attended law school in Brazil and worked five years in the Brazilian Stock Market. He was also an instructor at the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Brazil. He has several Jiu-Jitsu Championships.
Ken Popelka - Menasha High School Wrestling Team
Coach Popelka started wrestling at John Dewey Junior High in West Allis, Wisconsin, in the 7th grade. Wrestled for West Allis Central High School for 3 years, 2 on Varsity. Had a full scholarship to Northern Illinois University, where he lettered as a freshman. Wrestled on the All-Army team from 1985 to 1988, with teammate Randy Couture. Member of the US National Greco-Roman team from 1986 to 1988. Was a volunteer coach at several Fox Valley-area schools before joining the staff at Menasha as an assistant coach in 1997, and then becoming the head coach.
Coach Popelka Stats/Accomplishments:
- 3rd alternate for the 1988 Olympic Greco Team
- 3-time All Army Champion
- 2-time Interservice Champion
- 2nd place CISM Military Games (All NATO countries competing)
- 2-time US-Europe Champion in both Freestyle and Greco
- Ranked 6th in the nation as an All-American freshman at NIU
- 1st State Champ from West Allis Central in 1981 (2nd place in 1980)
- 2-time All-City Champion in Junior High
- Many other international-level tournament wins and experiences.
Sound like something you would be interested in trying? We offer a two-week free trial period for anyone interested in training. The two-week free trial includes this and all other programs offered at the Fox Valley Grappling Club. Contact us by calling 920-450-3172 or send us email at foxvalleygrapplingclub@yahoo.com. We look forward to training with you. |
