My children were both coached by Professor Ralph and he turned them into little machines💪🏽 he also taught them life skills that they’ve use throughout middle school and High School. Thank you. OSSS!!
– Melinda Garcia
I have really enjoyed learning from Professor Rafa and Coach Patrick. As a brand new white belt, and as a woman, it can be intimidating finding the right fit. Professor Rafa helps you to understand the why behind techniques and is detailed in his teachings. I’ve learned so much and felt like the environment professor creates is welcoming and safe. You won’t feel like you’re just getting chucked out onto the mat with no idea what to do.
– Dawn Lockwood
Professor Rafa is one of a kind. He is very systematic in his teachings, he is technical yet does not over load you with information. He has so much knowledge that he has a complete grasp of advance techniques yet does not compromise foundation.
Having said these. What I like about Prof Rafa the most is his approach to the tradition of the art. Turning around when fixing Gi, waiting for the instructor to let you in when you’re late, and the emphasis on higher belts to be more responsible as they climb up the ranks. Respect the coaches and professors.
These are the qualities that make good people.
— Josiah Nono
My 3 sons trained Jiujitsu with Professor Rafael for over 4 years and they loved it. They thrived on the mat and grew the confidence to consistently participate and show up for themselves for every training and competition.
– Myriam Laid
As a mother I am extremely grateful for professor Rafael. He showed my daughter values such as loyalty, honesty, integrity, and discipline. He works really well with everyone and makes sure the kids understand what they are being taught and that they use what they are learning for good. Professor Rafael teaches them that to be a good team they have to be united.
– Lily Gutierrez
I started working under Professor Rafael and his assistant coach Patrick after being at the school I was at for 6 months. I’m 67 years old and was struggling to keep up with everyone. Professor Rafael notices his students while he is teaching and weaves in things that help them as he teaches. His assistant Patrick would greet me when I came to class with , “I’ve been thinking about your Jiu Jitsu and have a suggestion for you”. In 6 weeks Professor Rafael improved my game considerably with a great blend of drilling basics and a focus on mat time in actual practice. Professor Rafael noticed my breathing was off and gave me great direction in the area of breathing that has also improved my ability to keep up with much younger students. And make no mistake, even with all this consideration, care and concern, Professor Rafael doesn’t play. He pushes us too so we are always moving to a new limit within ourselves. It would be hard to imagine my training without Professor Rafael and Patrick.
— Marc Stevenson
Carlson Gracie Team San Diego 