Certifications
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt under Hans Thompson
Demian Maia Fundamentals Instructor Certification
Combatives Association 10-Hour Instructor Development Certification
Red Zone Threat Management Knife Defense Instructor Certification
Knife Control Concepts Instructor Certification
Combatives Grey Belt under John Valentine
First Aid/CPR/AED Certified
SafeSport Certified
AcademySafe Certified
Biography
Professor Brett Werner leads Lionheart Jiu Jitsu with a calm, exacting style shaped by over two decades of teaching, mentorship, and leadership—on and off the mats.
He started training in 2011 at Zingano BJJ Brighton under Professor Hans Thompson. By 2013, he was already helping run kids’ classes and assisting with adults. From 2015 to 2020, he helped lead the kids’ competition team and taught beginner through intermediate adults, building a strong foundation in both coaching and culture.
In 2021, as a Brown Belt, Brett continued his development under Professor Cameron Cordova at Vibrant Jiu Jitsu, where he also ran the competition program. On July 15, 2023, he earned his Black Belt from Professor Hans Thompson, with Professor Cordova as second. In 2024, Brett stepped away from Vibrant and took on the role of Head Instructor at Lionheart.
While he’s competed, Brett’s real passion is coaching- helping people become disciplined, confident grapplers and translating Jiu Jitsu into life. He emphasizes structure, resilience, and sound decision-making, with a focus not just on technique, but on personal growth and building a strong, respectful community.
Outside the gym, Brett is supported by his amazing wife Lindsey and their son Braden, a newly minted Blue Belt. They’re the reason he pushes to be just a little better every day. The family also includes Fitz, their very huggable doodle. When they’re not on the mats, they’re usually at swim meets or enjoying good food, movies and vacationing all over the world together!
Acta Non Verba — Deeds, not words.
Lineage:
Mitsuyo Maeda → Hélio Gracie → Rickson Gracie → Carlos “Caique” Elias → Mauricio Zingano → Hans Thompson → Brett Werner