Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu
The Heart of Jiu-Jitsu on Salt Spring Island
Welcome To
Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu
Welcome to Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu, a Submission Grappling Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy where the whole family is welcome! We blend traditional teachings with modern practices, combining old-school roots and philosophy with new-school training. With a direct lineage to Carlson Gracie through Marcus Soares Jiu-Jitsu Academy, our approach emphasizes effective and reliable self-defense, a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and building a solid foundation for every student to grow.
Our BJJ classes are active from start to finish, featuring live scenario training in every session. The amount of live training rounds we do in one week often exceeds what other academies do in an entire month. We place a heavy emphasis on the underlying concepts and principles of jiu-jitsu, using them to guide everything we practice. This approach helps students develop strength, resilience, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of how techniques work, while exploring the three phases of Jiu-Jitsu in every class. Students grow physically, mentally, and emotionally, making our holistic program ideal for everyone from little kids just starting out to adults of any age.
Get started with a FREE Jiu-Jitsu class!
Come join us at Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu with a cost-free class. Sign up for our trial and begin a great journey into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!
Who We Are at
Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu
Our School
Every training session at Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu is energetic, focused Jiu-Jitsu training. Students are encouraged to enter class with an open mind toward their personal goals. We encourage open discussion and for students to ask questions about anything in training. Our goal is to help them develop problem-solving skills through consistent live training to adapt to pressure on and off the mat. This contributes significantly to their growth in Jiu-Jitsu, which is overseen by one of the best. Our students are graded for belt tests by Jiu-Jitsu pioneer in Canada and red belt Marcus Soares. Come join us to learn the principles of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to become your best self on and off the mat!
History
Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu began in 2018 in a small barn loft with just six puzzle mats and a handful of people eager to learn. Our founder, Colton Koopmans, brought prior Jiu-Jitsu & wrestling experience, and as interest grew, the club moved into a proper building in town, giving the community a permanent home.
Colton trained under Grandmaster Marcus Soares, and his 3rd degree black belt Jon Curtis learning the foundational concepts and principles that shape our teaching today. He competed nationally in wrestling, earning a bronze medal at the Canadian greco-roman national championships, and traveled internationally representing Soares’ academy. These experiences gave him a deep understanding of both the technical and philosophical sides of Jiu-Jitsu.
Salt Spring Island was the perfect place to grow the club. Its close-knit, personal community felt like family, and while space and consistency posed challenges, the support and spirit of the island made it the ideal home for building a strong, lasting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community.
Find the right membership for you!
There are multiple membership options for kids and adults. Take a look and find the right one for you and your family to start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes!
Meet the Salt Spring
Jiu-Jitsu Instructors
Our team is equipped with everything they need to help students succeed on and off the mat. With years of experience, including a direct connection to Marcus Soares, as well as an upbeat, positive attitude, students can develop with crucial support along their journey. Everything we teach – from our technical Jiu-Jitsu philosophy to life lessons – aims to enhance the student experience!
Colton Koopmans
Owner and Head Instructor, Brown Belt 1 Stripe
Colton brings 19 years of grappling experience across Gi and No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, freestyle, and Greco-Roman wrestling. He has coached wrestling since 2012 and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 2018, running classes and training sessions for students of all levels. A decorated competitor, Colton has won numerous medals in both Gi and No-Gi tournaments.
His teaching philosophy is simple: learn by doing. He spends a lot of time studying the psychology of learning and the emergence of human behavior through live training, always encouraging students to ask questions and explore concepts deeply. Outside the gym, Colton is a father of two, and enjoys drawing, reading, spending time in nature, and learning about health.
Laeticia Daigle
Assistant Kids Instructor, 4 Stripe Blue Belt
Laeticia began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2022 and quickly made her mark, competing locally and earning a gold medal in No-Gi and a silver in Gi. As an assistant kids instructor, she brings energy, enthusiasm, and a passion for helping children grow both on and off the mats.
A mother of two and engaged to Colton, Laeticia is committed to creating a fun and supportive environment where kids can develop confidence, discipline, and a love for learning Jiu-Jitsu. She also loves dance, and her infectious energy and dedication make her a beloved part of the team.
Parker Shaw
Assistant Kids Instructor, 4 Stripe Blue Belt
Parker began training with Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu at 16 and has grown into a dedicated and highly respected member of the team. Now a 4 stripe blue belt, he has competed in both Gi and No-Gi as a white and blue belt, earning medals at local tournaments and stepping up to compete in adult divisions as a teenager.
Parker is known for his diligence, loyalty, and relentless work ethic. He finished high school early, moved into the trades, and is now continuing his studies in dental health care. As an assistant kids instructor, he leads by example and embodies the values of hard work, discipline, and consistency, making him an admirable role model for younger students.
Our Academy Schedule!
Make sure to check out our Jiu-Jitsu schedule. We have multiple classes for adults and kids to sign up for during the week!
Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu
Programs
Our programs at Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu are built for all ages and experience levels, offering a supportive and challenging environment to grow. Through live training and a strong focus on core concepts and principles, students develop real skill, confidence, and problem-solving ability. We are committed to helping every student progress and find a true home on the mats.
Adult Jiu-Jitsu
Our Adult Jiu-Jitsu classes provide students with a strong foundation in Jiu-Jitsu. Students are taught the three macro structures of Jiu-Jitsu, including standing exchanges, guard engagement, and pinning, all oriented toward effective submission attacks and defense. This allows them to navigate a wide range of scenarios and concepts with confidence. As they progress, students develop more advanced skills to elevate their game, whether for self-defense, competition, or general fitness.
Kids Jiu-Jitsu
Our Kids Jiu-Jitsu classes use a games-based approach to skill development, meeting kids where they are at to keep them focused and engaged. Through fun, structured activities, they build strong foundational skills while learning real techniques for self-defense. All of this takes place in a positive environment where kids can learn, grow, and have fun alongside their peers.
Words from Our Community
Over the years, Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu has helped shape stronger, more confident individuals & families, and made a lasting impact on our community. Here’s what our students and families have to say.
“Love training with this team. Colton is a fantastic coach and very skilled at teaching. He is so passionate about jiu jitsu, I have loved learning from him over the years.”
“Great team here! Teachers and students. I’ve always felt welcome and safe as a woman in the space. Thank you for our shared time on the mat!”
“Fantastic learning environment and among the best coaching I could’ve asked for. Recommend for any with a love for the art or to those seeking to discover it”
“Amazing instructional style, patient and great rolls too! Highly recommend going and I’ll come visit next time I’m back. Thanks for an awesome session.”
“The culture and atmosphere are welcoming and supportive—perfect for anyone wanting to learn or progress in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Highly recommended for both adults and kids.”
Get started with a FREE Jiu-Jitsu class!
Come join us at Salt Spring Jiu-Jitsu with a cost-free class. Sign up for our trial and begin a great journey into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!
Contact Us!
Come join us for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu on Salt Spring Island. You can find us across the street from Country Grocer, underneath Royal Canadian Legion Branch 91!