IBJJF Recognized Academy

Our Lineage & Instructors

Woodstock BJJ is an IBJJF recognized academy led by Professor Ryan O'Shea, a 3rd Degree Black Belt under Professor Jorge Britto in the Royler Gracie lineage. Meet the dedicated coaching team behind our programs.

Our Approach

Instructor Team Overview

The instructors at Stratford BJJ and Woodstock BJJ represent decades of combined experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts. Led by Professor Ryan O'Shea, a 3rd Degree Black Belt under Professor Jorge Britto within the Royler Gracie lineage, our team is built on authentic technical foundation, structured development, and a shared commitment to student growth.

Our instructors include multiple Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belts, as well as Black Belts in Judo and other martial arts, each with extensive teaching and competition experience at regional, national, and international levels. More importantly, they are dedicated mentors who have developed within the same system they now teach, ensuring continuity, consistency, and a clear path for every student.

Together, they provide a welcoming, family-oriented environment where students of all ages can build confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills.

IBJJF Recognized

Coach Standards

Academy-Wide Requirements

All coaches at Woodstock BJJ Academy are required to hold the following certifications and clearances to ensure the safety and well-being of every student.

First Aid & CPR Certification

Vulnerable Sector Police Check

NCCP — Canadian Safe Sport and Ethics Program Certification

Stratford BJJ Instructor Program Completion

Adherence to the Instructor Code of Conduct

Our Coaches

Expert Instruction

BJJ Black Belt — 3rd Degree

Professor Ryan O'Shea

Founder & Head Instructor — Stratford BJJ & Woodstock BJJ

Founding Member — Jiu-Jitsu For Life Team

Professor Ryan O'Shea has trained Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over two decades and is a 3rd Degree Black Belt under Professor Jorge Britto, whose lineage traces directly to Royler Gracie and Vinicius Aieta of Gracie Tijuca. As a founding member of the Jiu-Jitsu For Life affiliation, Ryan has played a central role in building and preserving the technical standards and culture of the team.

He has achieved success in competition at regional, national, and international levels and continues to compete selectively, ensuring his instruction remains current and effective. In addition to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Ryan has trained extensively in wrestling, judo, and mixed martial arts, and has competed professionally in MMA.

As founder of Stratford BJJ and Woodstock BJJ, Ryan oversees all curriculum and instructor development through the Jiu-Jitsu for Life System. His teaching emphasizes strong fundamentals, structured progression, and long-term development in a positive, family-centered environment.

Coach Alex — Lead Instructor at Woodstock BJJ Academy

BJJ Black Belt — 1st Degree
Judo Black Belt — 2nd Degree

Coach Alex Schweinsberg

Lead Instructor

Coach Alex brings over 15 years of martial arts experience and an international training background to his role as Lead Instructor. His Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lineage connects directly to Professor Jorge Britto and Márcio “Maccarão” Stambowsky.

Having trained and taught in Japan, Canada, and the United States, Alex brings a thoughtful, structured approach to instruction. His classes emphasize technical precision, strong fundamentals, and long-term development, helping students build confidence and lasting skill.

Alex plays a key role in delivering curriculum and supporting the continued growth of both Stratford and Woodstock BJJ.

BJJ Black Belt

Coach Ian Clark

Lead Instructor — Competition Development & NoGi Program

Coach Ian Clark is a Black Belt under Professor Ryan O'Shea with over 12 years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training and more than a decade of teaching experience. He has worked with students of all ages, from beginners to advanced competitors, and plays a central role in developing the academy's competition programs.

A multiple-time medalist at Brown and Black Belt, Ian continues to actively train and refine his skills. His instruction emphasizes strong fundamentals, mobility, and technical precision. In addition to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Ian studies Ginastica Natural and yoga, integrating movement and injury prevention into his teaching to support long-term student development.

BJJ Black Belt
Judo Black Belt

Coach Greg Neeb

Instructor

Coach Greg Neeb is Stratford BJJ's first homegrown Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and has been part of the academy since its earliest days. His journey reflects years of dedication, consistent training, and commitment to the art.

In addition to his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, Greg holds a Black Belt in Judo, providing valuable expertise in takedowns and standing grappling. He has competed extensively, including at the international level, and continues to actively train and develop his skills. His instruction emphasizes strong fundamentals and complete grappling development.

BJJ Purple Belt

Coach Reece

Assistant Instructor — Youth & Development Programs

Coach Reece is a Purple Belt under Professor Ryan O'Shea and an active competitor with a strong grappling and wrestling background. He works closely with youth and teen students, helping them develop technical skills, confidence, and discipline.

As part of the academy's instructor development pathway, Reece represents the next generation of leadership within Stratford and Woodstock BJJ. His enthusiasm and dedication help create a positive and motivating environment for students.

Student Voices

What Our Students Say

“

What an amazing place to be! I cant say enough good things about this place. Top quality instructors, a wonderful atmosphere, and great for all ages and skill levels. A fun way to get in shape and learn self-defense while engaging your mind. It has become like a second home for me and the people here have become like family.

James P Member

“

I was nervous to join Woodstock BJJ, especially since it was my first martial arts gym, but I'm genuinely grateful I did. Training here over the last month has been a really positive experience. Everyone has been welcoming and patient, which made it easy to settle in and start learning. I've already noticed improvements in my discipline, stamina, and how I approach things…

Chris E Member

“

Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at nearly 50, I wasn't sure what to expect, but training at Woodstock BJJ has been one of the best decisions of my life! From day one, the atmosphere was welcoming and encouraging. The instructors here are patient, incredibly skilled, and genuinely invested in your progress — zero ego, just solid teaching and support…

Tom R Member

Coaching Milestones

By The Numbers

Combined Years

Students Trained

Competition Medals

Black Belts

Get Started

Train With The Best

Our instructors are ready to help you begin your journey. Whether you are curious about BJJ, looking to get in shape, or preparing for competition, your first class is on us. Book a free trial and experience the Woodstock BJJ difference.

Book Free Trial View Schedule