Professor Mark Sausser, 1st Degree Black Belt Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
A lifelong competitor, Mark started training in the art of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu (BJJ) in 2002. He was intrigued by the dominance of BJJ in combat sports. BJJ also gave him the opportunity to compete without the heavy abuse to his body. Gustavo recognized his dedication to the sport and talent for teaching and allowed Mark to coach classes at the main academy. As Mark progressed and earned his senior belts, Gustavo gave his blessing for Mark to open an affiliate academy in Norfolk.
From an early age, Mark has been involved with different forms of karate and striking sports. He boxed in the Golden Gloves and the Marine Corps. He coached boxing and also competed in professional full contact kickboxing. Mark is actively training to improve his jiu-jitsu and has recently taken up Judo. He is a fierce competitor and a passionate coach. In 2009, Mark won the brown belt division at the Pan-AM games in New York.