James Thrift

Meet Professor Jim Thrift: Founder of Calvert MMA Academy® and Lineage BJJ®

Step into the world of martial arts excellence with Professor Jim Thrift, a 4th Degree Black Belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and the visionary founder of Calvert MMA Academy® in Sunderland, Maryland, and Lineage BJJ® in California, Maryland. With over 40 years of martial arts experience and an unwavering commitment to mentorship, discipline, and service, Professor Jim has established himself as a respected leader, mentor, and innovator in the martial arts community.

A Martial Arts Pioneer and Innovator

In the 1990s, while working with the U.S. Secret Service, Professor Jim was introduced to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu by colleagues, igniting a lifelong passion for the art. Over the course of nearly 30 years, he trained extensively under the Gracie lineage, including Relson Gracie, and traveled across the United States and to Brazil to refine his skills. This dedication culminated in earning his 4th Degree Black Belt, reflecting his expertise in self-defense-focused Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. During this time, he trained with Royce, Rickson, Rolker, and Rorion Gracie, earning his blue belt from Royce and Rolker and further solidifying his connection to the Gracie family. Professor Jim also taught Gracie Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals at Ricky Thomas’s martial arts school, "Musha-Do," demonstrating his commitment to sharing the art.

Raised in Davidsonville, Maryland, Professor Jim began his martial arts journey during his senior year of high school, discovering a passion that would shape his life. Staying in the Annapolis area, he trained at the Annapolis Martial Arts Center with Mike Warren and Amos Johnson, under the lineage of Grandmaster Ki Wang Kim. Excelling in Moo Duk Kwan, Tang Soo Do, Hapkido, and Taekwondo, he earned his black belt and quickly established himself as a formidable competitor in point fighting, Judo tournaments, AAU/USTU competitions, and full-contact kickboxing.

In 1992, Professor Jim moved to Calvert County, where his martial arts journey expanded further. He began training in Kempo Karate under Ricky Thomas and later immersed himself in Judo under the late Mr. William "Bill" Chaney through Calvert County Parks and Recreation. Recognizing Professor Jim's love for groundwork, often referred to as "Ne-waza" in Judo, Mr. Chaney would take him to train at the Baltimore Judo Club, where he had the privilege of learning from the late Mr. John Anderson. In Professor Jim's opinion, Mr. Anderson was a national treasure in the sport of Judo, with groundwork second only to the legendary Gene LeBell. These experiences, along with competing in Judo tournaments, refined Professor Jim’s grappling skills, complementing his striking background and laying the foundation for his future mastery of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

In the early 2000s, while working assignments for the U.S. Secret Service in Los Angeles, he trained at the Gracie Academy in Torrance, CA, taking numerous classes with Rener and Ryron Gracie as they began teaching at the academy. During this period, he also had the extraordinary opportunity to meet and take classes with Helio Gracie himself, further deepening his understanding and connection to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

A Legacy of Service and Dedication

A 25-year veteran of the U.S. Secret Service, Professor Jim's career included high-stakes global assignments, advanced technical security operations, and expertise in explosive and electronic countermeasures. He has also trained alongside and supported the Secret Service's Defensive Tactics Instructors, sharing his extensive martial arts knowledge.  His background as a Defensive Tactics Instructor certified by the Maryland Police Training Commission (MPTC) demonstrates his ability to teach effective techniques to individuals in critical roles. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, he combines his military, law enforcement, and martial arts expertise to provide students with training rooted in discipline, practicality, and excellence.

A Commitment to Community and Excellence

Since founding Calvert MMA Academy® in 2007, Professor Jim has created a space that goes beyond martial arts training. His academy blends rigorous instruction with a focus on personal growth, empowerment, and community-building. Students of all ages and skill levels—from young children to competitive athletes, first responders, and military personnel—benefit from his authentic teaching style.

Under his leadership, Calvert MMA Academy® has grown into a respected institution that offers state-of-the-art facilities, innovative programs, and a supportive environment for everyone. Every detail, from the academy’s cleanliness and safety protocols to its comprehensive curriculum, reflects Professor Jim’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

A Unique Perspective on Leadership

Professor Jim’s philosophy is simple yet profound:
"Greatness begins with discipline, curiosity, and the courage to embrace mistakes. Growth happens when you stay humble, keep an open mind, and allow yourself to be vulnerable while learning."

This perspective, informed by decades of experience in martial arts and elite federal service, makes him more than just a coach—he’s a mentor and leader who inspires his students to achieve their fullest potential both on and off the mats.

Why Train with Professor Jim Thrift?

Training with Professor Jim means learning from one of the most respected martial arts instructors in the region, whose expertise spans multiple disciplines, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kempo, Judo, Sambo, Aikido, and Taekwondo. His teaching approach balances the authentic principles of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with the modern needs of students, making his programs ideal for those seeking self-defense skills, competition success, or personal growth.

Begin Your Journey at Calvert MMA Academy®

Are you ready to learn from an instructor who combines decades of experience, a passion for martial arts, and a dedication to helping others succeed? Join Calvert MMA Academy®, where Professor Jim Thrift and his team of elite instructors are transforming lives through martial arts.

Whether you're new to martial arts or an experienced practitioner, you'll find a welcoming environment, authentic instruction, and a community that supports your goals.

Click here to schedule your free VIP trial class and take the first step toward becoming part of the Calvert MMA Academy® family.

Calvert MMA Academy® – Where Your Martial Arts Journey Begins and Greatness is Built.