Testimonials about our Instructors

Sijo James W. DeMile, Grandmaster of Wing Chun Do:
My name is James W. DeMile and I created the gung fu style known as Wing Chun Do. I had the privilege of being one of Bruce Lee’s first students and have taught his method of street fighting for over 45 years. During this time I have trained and developed a number of instructors in my art. As in any profession, a few individuals will always stand out from the rest, regarding applied skills and/or teaching ability. One of these unique instructors is Chris Blanke. His applied skills have allowed him to be recognized as a world class tournament fighter, both in Wing Chun Do and Sports Jujitsu.
His many Gold Medals and First place finishes have set records which will be hard to duplicate. Above that, he is a superb teacher. His dedication and focus to make each student the best they can be is a reflection of his desire to be the best in every thing he does. I am honored to have him as a student, a fellow teacher, but most of all as a friend.

Saulo Ribeiro:
I have no words to describe the incredible journey that we took since we meet and establish the SRJJA in 98. My American brother Chris Blanke become one of the best instructors of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu in the World. Based on his ability, devotion and hard work help me to build the strongest Association and Jiu-Jitsu Family in the World. To understand better what I'm sayin just check the video Revolution 1, a masterpiece for who wants to know what jiu-jitsu is all about! Chris is a man of honor and really mean what he says!
People from Middlewest can celebrate a great jiu-jitsu in your backyard! The answer is Detroit and Toledojiujitsu with Blanke!
Forte abraco!

Scott Oates:
I am writing this because I wanted to express my gratitude for everything that I have learned from Chris Blanke. I am a former Navy SEAL, and I have trained all over the world and learned from many of the best instructors in their specific fields. I have been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for almost 8 years.
Over the past 4 years, I have trained and learned BJJ from Saulo Ribeiro, Xande Ribeiro and Chris Blanke. Learning from Saulo & Xande is incredible. They introduced me to a completely new style of the art. The techniques and concepts that they teach are cutting edge, and are at the forefront of what professional level fighters and competitors are using right now in both MMA and Championship level BJJ Tournaments.
Chris Blanke takes what these guys are teaching and dissects the techniques and concepts, breaking them down into layman's terms so that anyone can easily understand and start to implement them into their games. Chris is especially good at teaching at all levels, allowing each student to attain his full potential. He focuses on not only the physical aspect of the game, but also the mental parts.
I would highly recommend Toledo Jiu Jitsu to anyone at any level from beginner to expert both for BJJ and also MMA. In my opinion there is no better training anywhere around, and I travel from Virginia Beach, VA on a regular basis just to train with him and the guys at his academy.

Korbett Miller Kirkland Wa:
Chris and I have been friends and students of the martial arts since 1984. Its hard for a lay person to understand how talented someone like Chris is. You have to come in and try out a class. The ease at which he can dominate a larger and stronger opponent is inspirational. Most importantly Chris can develop those same traits in you, he is a world-class teacher and coach.