Eli Thaggard

I'm Eli Thaggard, an Assistant Instructor at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Camira.

I started training Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in 2023 with a simple goal: to help my children and myself develop practical self-defence skills. As a parent, I wanted my family to have the confidence and ability to protect themselves if they ever needed to. What began as a way to learn self-defence quickly became a passion that continues to shape my life.

Outside the academy, I work as an HVACR and Electrical Contractor, where problem-solving, attention to detail, and continuous learning are part of everyday life. Those same qualities have carried over into my training and teaching, and I enjoy helping students build confidence by mastering one skill at a time.

Since beginning my journey, I've earned my Blue Belt and completed both the Gracie Combatives® Instructor Certification and Gracie Bullyproof® Instructor Certification. Becoming an instructor has allowed me to give back by helping others discover the same life-changing benefits that drew me to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

One of the things I enjoy most about teaching is seeing the moment everything clicks for a student. Many people walk through our doors unsure whether Gracie Jiu-Jitsu can really work for them in a real-life situation. Watching that skepticism disappear as they experience the techniques for themselves is incredibly rewarding. It's a reminder that effective self-defence doesn't rely on being bigger, stronger, or more athletic—it relies on learning the right principles and applying them correctly.

I also enjoy working with beginners, helping children build confidence, and seeing students overcome challenges they never thought they could. Watching someone grow from feeling nervous on their first day to becoming calm, capable, and confident is one of the best parts of being an instructor.

I believe Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone. Regardless of your age, fitness level, or previous experience, anyone can learn practical self-defence while becoming healthier, more confident, and better prepared for life's unexpected situations.

When I'm not on the mats, I enjoy spending time with my family and pursuing a wide range of hobbies and interests. I'm naturally curious and enjoy learning new skills, a mindset that fits perfectly with the lifelong journey of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

I'm proud to be part of the team at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Camira and look forward to helping every student discover just how empowering Gracie Jiu-Jitsu can be.