JEFF YUMUL
Head Jiu Jitsu Instructor
Jeff started his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey in 2009 at Revolution Mixed Martial Arts in Langley BC, which at time was being run by Bibiano Fernandes. In 2011, Jeff started training under De La Riva Black Belt, Don Whitefield at West Coast Mixed Martial Arts eventually earning his Blue Belt. Shortly after, a job opportunity brought him to the City of Angels where he trained under Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles, this is where his passion for the art manifested, training with the worlds best day in and day out. With another job opportunity presenting itself in the Windy City, he decided to take a leap of faith, leaving behind the Mecca of BJJ. He took one class at Rio Jiu Jitsu and never looked back. His current Professor, Pete “The Greek” Letsos has led him through his next belts from Purple, Brown to being PTG’s 8th Black Belt. Pete is a Carlson Gracie Senior Black Belt. @bjjxyogastudio is excited to open its doors on Sep 15th, with Jeff leading the Jiu Jitsu program!
Notable accolades:
2021 IBJJF Chicago Summer Open; Master 2 Black Belt Champion
@f2wbjj Veteran
2018 Pan Am Master Silver Medalist (Brown)
2018 Chicago Open Master Gold Medalist (Brown) 2014 (Blue)
Multiple time Silver and Bronze medals (Blue/Purple/Brown)
3X Naga champion
DEANNA SPEAR-YUMUL
Head Yoga Instructor
Deanna started her yoga journey shortly after becoming a new mom. She struggled with anxiety for years and began suffering from anxiety attacks while pregnant with her daughter. Devoting time to her mat allowed her to overcome her attacks and learn different ways to calm the mind and body. In February 2018 she completed her 200 hour teacher training through Chicago School of Yoga. Deanna is the Resident Yoga Instructor for The Center for Psychological Services, located in Oak Lawn and has in depth experience working with clients who struggle to find balance and peace with their mental health. With a background in dance Deanna brings a firm understanding of the human body and how to easily modify allowing yoga to be accessible to all. She also has experience teaching children and believes yoga can serve for any age and body. In her classes you can expect a fun, upbeat and safe space where any and all are welcome.
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Certifications
RYT- 200 Hour Teacher Training from the Chicago School of Yoga in February 2018
75 Hours of Specialized Teacher Training in Yoga for Kids through Zenergy Yoga, April 2022
Affiliations
Yoga Alliance Member
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Lilla Dent
Women's Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Instructor
Lilla comes from a long and varied career in circus and other athletic disciplines such as dance, yoga, powerlifting, parkour and dance rollerskating. A lifelong tutor and teacher of academic subjects outside of the dojo, she has been passionate about the art of instruction her whole life. She enjoys teaching women and children and works to make the dojo a safe and inclusive space for those of all backgrounds, body types and affiliations. Lilla tries to pass on not only creative nuances of jiu jitsu but also the practical applications for self defense and general fitness to her students.
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"I am excited each and every day to be a part of the Iron Jiu Jitsu team!"
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RODOLFO AND DIEGO SANTOS
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Instructors
Father and son duo that have been training together since 2014. Rodolfo is an esteemed brown belt with competition experience. He is a father of four who values the art and discipline that bjj offers to kids. Diego earned his blue belt in 2020 and has been an apprentice under Owner and Head BJJ instructor Jeff Yumul. Diego is the 2020 NAGA juvenile champion.