About us
How we started
Born in Brazil, Professor Fernando Halfeld practices Jiu Jitsu since 9 years old. He was attracted by the efficiency of the skills he learned with this martial art and the difference that it makes in people’s lives. For him, the Jiu Jitsu represents a way to develop the fighter that exists within each one of us.
“No one should quit on themselves, everyone should fight for what they believe and love.”
In 2015, Halfeld moved to the USA, after applying for an athletic VISA. He competed around the country, representing the Brazilian Top Team (BTT), and won several titles, including third place at the World Championship.
It was only a matter of time until he fell in love with Texas and discovered he would never want to leave Lake Jackson. In August 2015, he took over his friend’s school and put all his effort into it, building a big project. Today, SoJ represents the world-renowned BTT in Brazoria County.
“Since then, we have conquered many Jiu Jitsu titles. But, most importantly, we became part of Brazoria’s County community. Now we are able to have a positive effect and make a difference in all these people’s lives.”
What we believe in
At the School of Jiu Jitsu, we believe that this fighting mode is a way of life. We don’t teach just valuable self-defense lessons. We build a strong foundation of respect, discipline, perseverance and confidence. Here, you will be part of a community, where adults and children have support to grow and make friends.
Do you know how SoJ helps brazilian children?
Brothers do Bem (Good Brothers) is a social project that serves the community of Santa Terezinha in Juiz de Fora (Brazil), where Fernando Halfeld used to live. The work began with food donations in May 2021, during the Covid-19 pandemic.
A year later, the project became an NGO, whose objectives follow the precepts of the UN. In 10 years, we intend to generate improvements for community residents in 5 areas:
Today, our coaches give free Jiu Jitsu classes to children in the community, developing physical conditioning and values such as responsibility, respect, self-control and teamwork. We also offer social services with psychologists, physiotherapists, social workers, nurses, doctors and other health care.