Why Teddy’s Jiu Jitsu Academy Stands Out in Alpharetta, Roswell, and Beyond
At Teddy’s Jiu Jitsu Academy, we are proud to offer a dynamic and inclusive training environment for individuals of all ages, fitness levels, and experience. Whether you're a beginner looking to explore martial arts for the first time or an experienced athlete seeking to refine your skills, our academy provides expert instruction in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Our curriculum is designed to promote personal growth, physical fitness, and mental resilience. Students train not only to master techniques, but also to build self-confidence, improve overall health, and develop the discipline needed to thrive both on and off the mat.
Training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is one of the most effective ways to cultivate inner strength. As students learn new techniques and overcome physical and mental challenges, they gain the confidence to face adversity, manage stress, and stay focused in everyday life. Jiu Jitsu is more than a sport—it’s a powerful tool for self-defense, emotional regulation, and personal empowerment.
Our programs emphasize real-world application, teaching students how to protect themselves responsibly and effectively. Whether dealing with a physical threat or navigating social challenges like bullying, our students learn to assess situations wisely and respond with confidence and control.
But what truly sets Teddy’s Jiu Jitsu Academy apart is our community. When you join us, you're not just signing up for classes—you’re becoming part of a supportive and motivating network of instructors and teammates who are committed to your success. Our experienced coaches take the time to understand each student’s goals, offering personalized guidance, encouragement, and mentorship every step of the way.
Here, you’ll train hard, grow stronger, and form lasting friendships—all while having fun in a safe, respectful, and empowering environment.
Meet Our Team
Professor Teddy is the Co-Owner, Founder, and Head Instructor of Teddy’s Jiu Jitsu Academy, which he proudly operates alongside his wife, Kelly. With over 18 years of dedicated training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Professor Teddy brings a deep well of expertise, discipline, and passion to his students.
In addition to his martial arts background, Professor Wheeler has an extensive career in law enforcement, spanning more than 17 years. His service includes time in both uniformed patrol and investigations. This unique combination of real-world experience and martial arts mastery gives him a profound understanding of self-defense, situational awareness, and personal safety—insights he integrates into his teaching.
Professor Teddy’s commitment to lifelong learning, both on the mat and in his professional life, shapes the culture of excellence and integrity at Teddy’s Jiu Jitsu Academy.
His journey in martial arts began during his time at Georgia State University, where he first explored grappling through a campus club. This initial interest quickly evolved into a lifelong commitment when he began formal training under the esteemed Master Roberto Traven, a legend in the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Professor Teddy has competed in numerous tournaments throughout his career, including prestigious events such as the IBJJF Masters World Championships in 2018 and 2019. His competitive experience, combined with his instructional expertise, allows him to offer a well-rounded and deeply informed approach to teaching.
Driven by a genuine passion for both Jiu Jitsu and lifelong learning, Professor Teddy is committed to helping others discover the transformative power of martial arts. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the development of self-confidence, the promotion of physical and mental well-being, and the importance of discipline and perseverance. He views Jiu Jitsu not just as a sport, but as a tool for personal growth and empowerment.
Outside the academy, Professor Teddy continues to study the art of Jiu Jitsu, constantly refining his techniques and expanding his understanding. In his downtime, he enjoys relaxing with his cat, Eclipse, and—true to form—thinking about Jiu Jitsu.
Coach Kelly Wheeler is the Co-Owner of Teddy’s Jiu Jitsu Academy, which she proudly runs alongside her husband, Professor Jerad “Teddy Bear” Wheeler. With over 9 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Kelly brings a unique blend of grit, grace, and good humor to the mats.
Her journey into Jiu Jitsu began not in a gym, but in her childhood living room—wrestling and roughhousing with her brothers during Saturday morning cartoons. Many many many years later, a friend suggested she try a Jiu Jitsu class. Not entirely sure what it was, she gave it a shot—and instantly fell in love.
Since then, Kelly has trained under the banner of Master Roberto Traven, learning from one of the best coaches ever, Coach Denise Houle. She has competed in numerous tournaments, including the IBJJF Masters World Championship in 2019, where she proudly earned a 3rd place finish.
Outside of Jiu Jitsu, Kelly brings over 18 years of experience as a school psychologist and 9 years as a licensed massage therapist. Her professional background gives her a deep understanding of both the mind and body—skills she uses to support her students in building confidence, resilience, and self-awareness through martial arts.
Kelly is passionate about helping others discover the joy and empowerment that Jiu Jitsu offers. She loves the strategy, the challenge, and the constant learning the art demands. While Professor Teddy may be the one constantly thinking about Jiu Jitsu, Kelly balances her time with a wide range of interests. When she’s not on the mats, she’s likely working with her two Carolina Dog mixes in training and agility, reading, painting, knitting, hiking, gaming (video and tabletop), or squeezing in one of the many other hobbies she somehow manages to fit into her day.
At Teddy’s Jiu Jitsu Academy, Coach Kelly is more than an instructor—she’s a mentor, motivator, and a living example of how martial arts can enrich every aspect of life.
Areas We Serve:
- Roswell
- Johns Creek
- Alpharetta
- Peachtree Corners
- Norcross