What Makes Elevate Different?
We teach more than positions and submissions — we teach problem-solving, resilience under pressure, and the confidence to carry those lessons into everyday life. Our clean, welcoming facility is designed to feel like home, where students of all ages can learn safely and grow at their own pace.
We balance technical detail with personal connection. Every student — whether a child stepping on the mats for the first time, a parent training alongside their teen, or a competitor preparing for the next tournament — gets the individual attention they need to succeed.
At Elevate, the difference is simple: we use Jiu Jitsu to build skills that last far beyond the mats.
At Elevate Jiu Jitsu Academy, OUR VISION is rooted in building lasting relationships and cultivating a values-driven, community-centered martial arts environment in Grand Junction, Colorado.
OUR MISSION is to create an academy where Jiu Jitsu becomes a vehicle for personal growth, determination, and transformation — a place where students of every age and background can train with purpose, push their limits, and discover strength on and off the mats.
We are committed to human development through Jiu Jitsu, and our instructors draw not only on years of training but also on decades of service to country and community here on the Western Slope of Colorado; that experience shapes the culture we bring to every class and every student we teach. OUR PASSION is helping others grow, lead, and evolve through discipline, perseverance, and connection.
“Whether it’s On the mats, in the fight, or in life — Jiu Jitsu helps us build confidence in THe chaos.” Coach Justin
OUR GOAL is to create an academy that fuels your passion for Jiu Jitsu — a place that fires you up to train and sets the tone the moment you step on the mats; where the same energy and commitment carries into our teaching, giving parents the confidence that their kids are learning from instructors who carry that responsibility with pride — and where every investment of time, effort, and resources is reflected in the quality of our coaching and the facility that supports it.
OUR BELIEF is that Jiu Jitsu is a lifelong investment — in discipline, in confidence, and in perspective. We need this training just as much as our students do; the only difference is we’ve been on the mats a little longer and know firsthand how the right Jiu Jitsu environment can transform the way you see yourself and the world around you.
Our programs reflect OUR CORE VALUES of relationships, culture, and human development. We believe the highs and lows of Jiu Jitsu mirror the challenges of life — and that training gives us the tools to face those challenges with tenacity and confidence.
Elevate Jiu Jitsu Academy is growing intentionally in three phases: focused on quality over quantity, shaped by community feedback, and always evolving to meet the needs of Grand Junction and Mesa County, Colorado.
“Elevate is where hard work meets growth, and where training turns into transformation.” - Coach Joel
Finding Confidence in Chaos
our WHY
Meet YOur Jiu Jitsu Instructors
The Elevate team comprises black belts, veterans, first responders, and dedicated community servants who bring decades of experience in both Jiu Jitsu and service to others. This shared expertise and leadership make Elevate Jiu Jitsu Academy a trusted name for BJJ in Grand Junction.
Justin Branch
Justin (3rd-degree black belt) began training Jiu Jitsu in 2006 at the Texas Self Defense Academy under Orlando Waugh. In 2014, he earned his black belt, which traces through Orlando Waugh to Carlos Machado and the CMBJJ Association—connecting him to one of the most respected lineages in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
For Justin, Jiu Jitsu is not only about competition, but about building people up through the art. He brings a steady, encouraging presence to Elevate, helping students grow in skill, confidence, and character both on and off the mat.
Beyond Jiu Jitsu, Justin is a devoted husband of 18 years, and father of 2 young girls, bringing the same patience, commitment, and care to his family that he brings to his students.
Head Instructor
Joel Arellano
Joel (first-degree black belt), a Grand Junction, Colorado native, brings a wealth of experience both on and off the mats. A Navy veteran and Captain - Firefighter/Paramedic, he has dedicated his life to service, leadership, and personal growth. Joel is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under the Grapple Fight Team (GFT) banner and has earned numerous regional victories along with podium finishes at IBJJF national and international competitions, proving himself as a high-level competitor.
Beyond competition, Joel’s true passion lies in teaching. With over 10 years on the mats, he has developed a progressive, mind-mapping approach to Elevate’s curriculum that blends foundational skills with advanced concepts. His method reflects not only technical mastery but also the leadership and discipline cultivated during his military service and years as a first responder. His goal is to help every student unlock confidence, adaptability, and growth - both in training and in life.
Away from the academy, Joel is a loving husband of 28 years, father of 2, and proud grand father of one little ball of sunshine.
Instructor
Shawn Montgomery
Shawn Montgomery brings a unique blend of service, leadership, and technical skill to Elevate Jiu Jitsu Academy. A U.S. Army veteran, Shawn served as a Combat Medic with the 1st Infantry Division, deploying to Kosovo and Iraq. Following his military service, Shawn continued to serve his community as a firefighter/paramedic with the Grand Junction Fire Department.
Shawn began his Jiu Jitsu journey in 2013, and his passion for the art continues to grow. He currently holds a purple belt and focuses on leading Elevate’s youth and beginner programs. His approach to instruction is centered around structure, encouragement, and building confidence on and off the mats.
Outside the academy, Shawn is a devoted husband of 24 years and father of 3.
Instructor
Hailee Wemple
Hailee was born and raised right here in Grand Junction and has been training Jiu Jitsu for over 11 years. Along the way, she’s also taught kids and adult classes in both Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu, and competed in Muay Thai, Boxing, and MMA. Her diverse martial arts background gives her a unique perspective as a coach and mentor.
What Hailee loves most is making Jiu Jitsu accessible to everyone. She has a gift for connecting with students—whether they’re brand new to the mats, building kids’ confidence, or adults chasing competition goals—and she’s passionate about creating a welcoming, supportive training environment.
When she’s not coaching or training, you’ll most likely find Hailee outdoors with her “pack” of dogs, camping, hiking, or kayaking. For her, Jiu Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it’s a way to build resilience, community, and joy both on and off the mats.
Instructor
Matt Galendez
Born and raised on the island of Guam, Matt started Jiu Jitsu young with friends before joining the Army as an Infantryman at 19. After separating, Matt hit some of the hardest struggles of his life until he found his way back to the mats at a friend’s gym. Jiu Jitsu gave him back his health, his purpose, and everything he values most- family, friends, and his faith.
When he’s not training, he loves spending time with his wife and kids off-roading, skateboarding, playing guitar, cooking, doing arts and crafts, and rolling at home.
Matt has been married to Ros for 14 years and they have 3 kids who also train jiu jitsu at Elevate.
Instructor
Ros Galendez
Ros was born in the Philippines and raised in Guam, where she began her Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey in 2021 after attending a women’s only class. From the start, she was hooked, and training alongside her husband and three children made the experience even more meaningful.
Soon after, she began coaching kids ages 4–7, finding joy in helping them build confidence, discipline, and a love for Jiu Jitsu. Known for her patience, kindness, and positivity, Ros is passionate about creating a supportive space where children can thrive.
When she’s not on the mats, Ros loves nothing more than spending time at home with her husband Matt of 14 years and their kids, who remain her greatest motivation and joy.
Instructor
Bryson Rasmussen
Academy Media/Content Creator
Bryson is a firefighter, husband of 9 years, and dad to one boy who brings his passion for storytelling to Elevate Jiu Jitsu. Through video and photography, he captures authentic moments that showcase the people, spirit, and community that make Elevate Jiu Jitsu special.