World-Class Jiu Jitsu for Everyone
At McHugh Jiu Jitsu, our mission is to make world-class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu accessible in an engaging, supportive, and growth-inducing environment — regardless of age, background, or ability.
We believe Jiu Jitsu is a powerful vehicle for personal growth physically, mentally, and spiritually. From our youngest Tiny Sharks (ages 3 & 4) to adult competitors, every student is treated with care and coached toward their full potential.
Our Values
Proven Curriculum
20+ years of teaching distilled into structured programs for every age — from 3-year-olds learning coordination to adults sharpening technique.
Family, Not Just a Gym
128 five-star reviews say it best: every student — kid or adult — is treated like family from day one. No egos, no exceptions.
Real Results Off the Mat
Parents consistently report improved confidence, discipline, and focus in their kids. Adults find community and purpose beyond fitness.
Built for Beginners
Most students walk in with zero experience. Our instructors break everything down so it's easy to learn, no matter where you start.
Meet Our Instructors
Decades of combined experience and a genuine passion for teaching Jiu Jitsu to students of all ages.
"I'm a firm believer in the adage 'people don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care.' I embrace that philosophy wholeheartedly, and I think it's apparent in everything we do at the academy."
— Peter McHugh
Professor Pete McHugh — owner and lead instructor — received his black belt from Professor Ricardo Almeida in December of 2013. As a full-time instructor at RABJJ headquarters for over 6 years, Professor Pete built one of the largest kids' Jiu Jitsu programs in the country. Since 2014, McHugh BJJ has grown into one of the largest Jiu Jitsu academies in the country.
During his speech at Pete's black belt ceremony, his teacher Ricardo said that he wasn't sure how, but that he was certain Pete would go on to make Jiu Jitsu accessible to those for whom it was once exclusive — that he'd find a way to encourage and enable more people to benefit from Jiu Jitsu. That's what Professor Pete has dedicated his life to.
"Ever since I can remember martial arts has played a big part in my life. At six years old I was enrolled in Tae Kwon Do. I achieved the rank of second degree black belt and was 3x state champion and 2x junior Olympic world champion. From there I moved onto other martial arts such as Kyokushin Karate, Muay Thai kickboxing, MMA and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu."
— Tony Lascola
Professor Tony Lascola is a talented and technical black belt under Professor Pete McHugh, teaching world-class lessons in both the Adult BJJ and Junior Sharks programs. His martial arts journey started at six years old in Tae Kwon Do, where he achieved the rank of second degree black belt, became a 3x state champion, and 2x junior Olympic world champion. From there he pursued Kyokushin Karate, Muay Thai kickboxing, MMA, and ultimately Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.