In 2009, Morgan's interest in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was piqued when a friend gave him a brief introduction to the art. Initially, he didn't see the relevance of BJJ in real-life situations, but his perspective changed after discovering Gracie Combatives Online. Impressed by the effectiveness of BJJ in real-world scenarios, he became obsessed with learning more and developing his skills. This dedication paid off in November 2018 when he was awarded the rank of black belt by his head instructor, Vanderson Pires. Morgan was proud to become the first homegrown black belt in the Manawatu region.

Morgan's role as Head of Teaching and Learning at Te Hiringa Alternative Education has greatly contributed to his ability to effectively teach Jiu Jitsu. The skills he has acquired in this position have allowed him to present the material in a clear and easy-to-understand format, making the learning process more accessible to his students.

In 2010, Darren "Dazza" Popata was introduced to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu by Morgan, who invited him to a training session. At the time, Dazza was actively training and competing in Muay Thai, but soon fell in love with BJJ and dedicated himself fully to the art. He received his black belt from Morgan in August 2021, with the blessing of Vanderson, becoming the first person to have their grading done in Palmerston North.

Dazza has an inventive mind and is always expanding his comprehension of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu by discovering new techniques and approaches. He also taught self-defense classes, which has provided him with a strong foundation in the fundamentals of the art. As a result, he is able to simplify complex techniques and break them down to their most essential elements, making them more accessible for those in his class.

In 2018 Kiria Tangaroa was introduced to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu by Morgan through a supportive Youth programme, where self defense was part of the day’s activity. Kiria encountered difficulties as a result of this introduction experience, which fuelled his desire to learn Jiu Jitsu and his subsequent passion and love for the martial art.

Kiria has struggled with weight concerns and respiratory problems throughout his BJJ career. As a result, he has reinvented himself as a healthy living advocate both on and off the mats, losing weight, improving his cardiovascular health, and becoming a better overall person—in particular, a better husband and father.

Kiria has been teaching the morning classes for the past 2 years as a Blue Belt. His instructional approach is centred on mastering the fundamental. He can support and modify his lesson to fit each student's skills and abilities while also motivating them to keep improving.

Grayson Donnelly, a 30-year-old blue belt instructor at Homegrown Jiu Jitsu, will be the instructor for our Tuesday and Thursday night classes for the next 4 weeks.

Grayson originally started out in rugby, but after hanging up his boots, he tried his hand at various sports before finally joining his brother on the mats of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Since then, he has never looked back, finding a true passion for the sport and the challenges it presents. He believes that training in Jiu Jitsu has not only helped him physically but has also helped mold his perspective on life.

Grayson's teaching style is understanding, methodical, practical, and trial & error. He is dedicated to helping others understand the concepts of Jiu Jitsu and the benefits it can bring to their lives, while also making sure they are able to apply it in a practical way. He encourages others to experiment and learn through trial and error, and supports them every step of the way.

In 2015, Apera began her journey towards better health and wellness, motivated by her struggles with being overweight and high blood pressure. Darren suggested that she and her four eldest children practice Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as part of their homeschool physical education.

It was during a roll with her 10-year-old daughter that Apera was taken aback when her daughter managed to secure a choke hold from the back control position. This moment marked a turning point for Apera as she recognized the legitimacy and potential of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Now a Purple belt, Apera has not only continued her own training but has also gained the confidence and knowledge to share the art with others.

As the instructor of women-only classes, Apera's teaching style is characterized by patience, inclusiveness, and a deep understanding of what it takes for women to progress in the art.