Mark Massey was first introduced to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1993 after visiting Professor Pedro Sauer's academy in Salt Lake City, UT. He trained off an on for about 2 years but had to move to Washington from Utah and took up Judo before earning any official rank in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Mr. Massey continued regular study and training in Judo, earning a Nidan (2nd degree Black Belt) under the United States Judo Association. In 2002 Mr. Massey took up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu again, and continued the journey he started nearly 10 years earlier. After earning his Purple Belt in 2007 he was accepted into the Gracie Barra Association under Master Carlos Gracie Jr. and opened the Gracie Barra Idaho academy in Pocatello, Idaho, where he currently teaches today. Mr. Massey was awarded his Brown Belt by Professor Rafael Ellwanger under the endorsement of Master Carlos Gracie Jr, and continues working hard to improve his technique, skill, and teaching methods he passes on to his students. His instructors and mentors include Professor Rafael Ellwanger of Gracie Barra Louisiana, Professor Eduardo Mori of Gracie Barra Utah, Professor Keith Owen of Ultimate Jiu-Jitsu in Boise, ID, and Professor Jim Collins of the Fredson Paixao Association in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mark Massey continues to be inspired and guided by the wisdom and teachings of Master Carlos Gracie Jr., The Gracie Barra Association Founder.

Paul Sondrini began his training under Mark Massey and the Elite Jiu-Jitsu Academy in 2007, shortly after the Academy became an Affiliate of the Gracie Barra Association. He developed skill and understanding of Jiu-Jitsu very quickly, earning a Blue Belt in just under 12 months. He also cross-trained in Judo under Mark Massey, making his BJJ game more well-rounded. He has won numerous tournaments in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo, and continues to make training a high priority in his life. In 2011 he received his Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and now serves as the Assitant Instructor at Elite Jiu-Jitsu.

Ryan Hokanson began his training under Mark Massey and Elite Jiu-Jitsu Academy in 2009. He is an avid competitor in Jiu-Jitsu and Judo tournaments, winning numerous medals for the Team. He has a passion for teaching and makes class attendence a high priority in his life. Ryan is extremely dedicated to technical perfection and is always practicing with Students to improve his game. His daughter is in our Junior Judo / BJJ Class and has the same drive as her Dad. Ryan is an asset to the Elite Jiu-Jitsu family.