INSTRUCTORS
Alexey Pickerell
Born in the Brazilian city of beléM, the very birthplace of brazilian jiu jitsu, Alexey Pickerell’s journey in martial arts ignited under the tutelage of master Ricardo de La Riva in 1989. Demonstrating exceptional dedication and discipline, He became the first student of Master De la riva’s to progress from white to black belt, marking a significant milestone in his distinguished career.
In 1996, alexey Earned a bronze Medal in his division at the first world jiu jitsu championship, establishing himself as a formidable competitior at the highest level of the sport. In 1998, he returned to beléM from Rio De janeiro, where he is widely credited with reintroducing and advancing modern Brazilian jiu jitsu to the region.
Backed by over 37 years of training and experience, Alexey offers a rare depth of knowledge and technical mastery to the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Since settling in Maine in 2007, he has attained the esteemed rank of Coral Belt— a testament to his lifelong dedication, influence, and excellence within the discipline.
*did you know:
in addition to his remarkable achievements, alexey stands as a Proud advocate and ambassador for the renowned grappling brand, origin! He participates as an instructor at the origin immersion camp in maine each year.
Bryan Leclerc
Bryan Leclerc is a 2nd-degree black belt under Alexey Pickerell and began his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey in 2007. Through dedication and commitment to the sport, he progressed Quickly and became Alexey Pickerell’s first student in Maine to advance from white belt to black belt. Bryan later became Alexey’s business partner and currently teaches the Tuesday night Basics class.
*did you know:
Dr. Bryan leclerc is a decorated dentist in the standish area! HE’s also the guitarist for the band, inside wants out!
Austin Miller
Austin Miller is a black belt under Alexey Pickerell. Known as one of Alexey’s most technical black belts, Austin has a strong appreciation for modern Jiu Jitsu while maintaining a deep respect for old-school fundamentals. He teaches the Thursday night Basics class and also leads no-gi classes throughout the week.
*did you know:
austin is the owner and head chef of Mami, a japanese street food restaurant in Portland, maine. He has competed on Food Network’s chopped.