South-East BJJ

Hey Team,
As mentioned in class today, there will be a schedule change next week on Monday, 1st September due to a Judo seminar.
• Kids Classes: Beginners & Advanced will be combined and run from 6:30 – 7:15pm
• Adults Gi Class: Moved to 7:30 – 8:30pm
• Wrestling Class: Canceled for the evening

Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to seeing you on the mats!

Meet one of the South East BJJ Coaches- Black belt .matthews.insta

matthews.insta started his martial arts journey back in March 2012, where he was originally focussed on pursuing an amateur MMA career. Training Kickboxing, Boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and MMA, James quickly honed his skills and represented the team in a number of competitions, inter club fights and amateur fight nights, securing many victories.

From 2016, James became well known on the BJJ competition circuit nationally, regularly travelling interstate to compete. In 2022 this culminated in James having reached 100 competition medals. Titles including 13x State Championship Titles, 4x Pan Pacific Championships, 2x UAE National Pro and 4x National Champion, among others. In 2023, James became one of only a few people to have placed 1st in a competition in every state of Australia.

Outside of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, James is a dedicated family man and driven entrepreneur. A father of 3 girls, James often laughs when his daughters recount that his lack of hair is due to having donated it to them. On a professional level, James is a well educated and experienced construction professional who is a Director of a consulting firm he founded with a friend in 2024. Currently studying a Masters in Business Administration, James puts these skills to good use in the office and when developing aspiring BJJ students.

With an ACL reconstruction in December of 2024, James’ focus has shifted away from competition and to developing the students at South East Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. His experience and dynamic approach to communication allows classes to explore various unique strategies to overcome barriers, and elevating skillsets to higher levels.

James Matthews draws inspiration from various life experiences to demonstrate the characteristics of strong leadership. He challenges the people around him to want more for themselves and constantly looks for ways to help them achieve it.

Come down and say hi to Coach James, as he's teaching Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:30 PM in Gi.

Hey Team! Come on down to the VABL event today at the Matthew Flinders hotel Chadstone and catch our very own Peter Kikkos who will be competing in today's event.

Doors open at 1pm
First fight 2pm

Peter is fight 29

If you're not busy, come on down and support our up and rising Talent Peter.

Introducing the South East BJJ coach.

Courtney Fakiki, a distinguished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) black belt, has dedicated over 13 years to mastering the art, commencing his journey at the tender age of nine. His early commitment and passion for BJJ propelled him into the competitive arena, where he achieved significant milestones, including victories at the Pan Pacific Championships. Notably, at just 14, Courtney showcased exceptional prowess by competing in the adult division at Grappling Industries, underscoring his advanced skills and determination.

Affiliated with South East BJJ, Courtney has been recognized for his formidable top-pressure game. His reputation as a high-level competitor is well-established within the grappling community.

Beyond his personal achievements on the mat, Courtney has made significant contributions as a coach at South East BJJ. His dedication to mentoring and developing upcoming talents has been instrumental in fostering a new generation of martial artists, reflecting his commitment to the growth and dissemination of BJJ.

Courtney’s leadership qualities were evident during his tenure at Fountain Gate Secondary College, where he served as the College Captain in 2020. His leadership was further recognized in 2018 when he received the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership Award, highlighting his exemplary character and influence among peers.

In 2025, Courtney is set to culminate his academic pursuits, finalizing a Bachelor of Arts/Laws degree with a major in International Relations and a minor in Economics. This academic endeavor complements his martial arts discipline, equipping him with a comprehensive understanding of global affairs and economic principles.

Courtney Fakiki embodies a harmonious blend of athletic excellence, academic achievement, and leadership. His journey serves as an inspiration, illustrating the profound impact of dedication, discipline, and a commitment to continuous growth across multiple facets of life.

Hey Team,
We hope all is well.
Just writing to inform parents that Kids BJJ class will be NO-GI today!
Therefore, there will be no need for children to wear their Gis to class today.
Students are also welcome to wear the gi pants and a rashy or tshirt that you wouldn’t mind getting a bit of wear and tear.

Looking forward to seeing you tonight!

Coach Court.

Last week our 4yr old Cassius competed in the the Vics and won gold. He is now the Vic Champion in the 5yr old heavyweight division. He was moved up 9kg in weight and had no problem facing an experienced student from Gracie. Twice a week Cash has amazing training partners who helped him to get ready for this competition. He is very lucky to have the best training partners, it keeps him humble on the mats. Special shout out to Zayden, Brett and Roman.

Attention All Members and friends

South East will be closed over the Xmas break.

All classes will finish on the 22nd of December and recommence on the 8th Jan.

But keep an eye on our stories for the next two weeks. BJJ and the gym will open for open mats.

We are truly blessed to have the best people supporting us and we are truly grateful without your love and support we wouldn't be here.

To our amazing coaches , .fakiki thank you 🙏

We wish you all the merriest of Xmas and the happiest of New Year.. thank you for another year of love and support 🙏Oss