Our Story
Founded on November 1, 2017, Eleven Elevation Jiu Jitsu Academy has grown from humble beginnings to become a prominent training hub in Wrightwood, California. The academy's journey began in a small unit near the top of Park Drive, serving as a modest space for students to learn and practice the art of Jiu Jitsu.
After a couple of years, the academy sought a larger unit, recognizing the need for expansion to accommodate the growing number of students. It was then that Eleven Elevation relocated to a spacious facility at the very top of the street, allowing for a more comfortable training environment and enhanced learning opportunities for its members.
In 2021, an exciting opportunity presented itself to Eleven Elevation. The Myers Building, located at 6069 Park Drive, was offered to the academy. Built in 1924 and possessing a historic charm, this building held immense potential for becoming a world-class training facility and fulfilling Eleven Elevation's vision for its community.
Without hesitation, the academy embarked on a journey of transformation. Through countless hours of non-stop volunteer work from dedicated students, the Myers Building underwent a complete renovation. Every corner was carefully crafted and every detail meticulously attended to. The result was a breathtaking training space that exuded both elegance and functionality, providing an ideal environment for practitioners of Jiu Jitsu to hone their skills.
Today, the renewed Eleven Elevation Jiu Jitsu Academy stands proudly, symbolizing the passion, commitment, and drive of its students and instructors. It serves as a testament to the power of unity and collective effort in building a place where the community can come together to pursue excellence in martial arts.
As Eleven Elevation continues to flourish, it remains dedicated to providing top-notch training, fostering personal growth, and promoting a sense of camaraderie among its members. With its roots firmly planted in Wrightwood, California, Eleven Elevation Jiu Jitsu Academy is an integral part of the community, inspiring individuals to elevate their physical and mental well-being through the study and practice of Jiu Jitsu.
“Our mission is not only to teach self-defense, but help individuals grow, and become more successful. A Jiu Jitsu Academy offers more than a sport or fitness studio. Here we use self defense as a medium to instill character development, self-motivation, confidence, discipline, leadership, and so much more. We offer classes for all skill sets young and old, and specialize with students with disabilities. Our instructors strive to lead by example and motivate each student individually while keeping the entire class on pace. We believe each student has the ability to realize the best version of themselves through the practice of Jiu Jitsu. ”
Head Instructor
Chad Keel: Rising to the Top of Jiu-Jitsu
Chad Keel's journey in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began back in 2006 when he first stepped onto the mats of Al Garza's Jiu Jitsu program in the backroom of the Universal Grappling Academy in Victorville. Little did he know that this initial encounter would set the foundation for his future success in the martial art.
Driven by a desire to take his skills to new heights, Chad made the life-altering decision to uproot and relocate to San Clemente, California. It was here that he found himself under the guidance of a true master, Paulo Guillobel, a 6th-degree black belt and multiple World Champion.
The Guillobel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, renowned throughout the world, stood as a testament to the excellence and expertise of Sensei Paulo Guillobel. With a string of accolades, the academy had held the title of the best Martial Arts school for the past six consecutive years.
From 2013 to 2018, Chad became an integral part of the Guillobel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, serving as an instructor for both children and adults. His dedication to his craft was evident as he consistently attended seminars and workshops to refine his skills and enrich his knowledge as a martial arts instructor.
In late 2017, Chad received an incredible opportunity granted by Sensei Paulo Guillobel himself—to start his own Jiu-Jitsu academy. Armed with the formula for success, Chad ventured into the picturesque mountains of Southern California to establish Eleven Elevation, a world-class training facility.
Since its inception in November 2017, Eleven Elevation has risen rapidly in reputation and recognition. The hard work and unwavering commitment of both Chad and his students have placed this once-unknown gym into the spotlight of the competitive scene.
Students of Eleven Elevation have achieved remarkable victories in prestigious competitions such as the World Jiu-Jitsu Championships, All Americans, and Pan-Americans hosted by organizations like IBJJF, JJWL, SJJIF, and NABJJF. Their gold medals and podium finishes are a testament to the quality of training and instruction offered at Eleven Elevation.
Chad Keel's journey from a student at Al Garza's gym to a revered Black Belt instructor at Guillobel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy and the founder of Eleven Elevation showcases his unwavering passion and dedication to the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.