Kevin Southworth

Professor Kevin Southworth

Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | Chief Instructor

Professor Kevin Southworth is the day-to-day heart of Lineage BJJ® in St. Mary’s County. He is on the mats every evening, teaching classes, guiding students, and making sure everyone—kids and adults alike—feels supported, safe, and challenged at the right pace.

For many families and new students, Kevin is the first instructor they meet. His calm, patient approach helps people feel comfortable from day one, especially those who have never trained in martial arts before.

A Coach Who Meets You Where You Are

Kevin teaches all levels and age groups at Lineage BJJ®, including:

• Mat Munchkins & Little Sharks

• Junior Grapplers

• Youth Competition Class

• Adult Fundamentals

• Intermediate and Advanced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

• Open Mat sessions

He also regularly teaches and supports students at Calvert MMA Academy®, ensuring consistency across both academies under one curriculum and one standard.

Whether he’s working with a three-year-old stepping onto the mats for the first time or an adult learning self-defense later in life, Kevin takes the same thoughtful approach—clear instruction, steady encouragement, and genuine care.

Parents trust him with their children.
Adults trust him with their progress.

Built on a Lifetime of Athletics

Kevin began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2017 at Calvert MMA Academy®, bringing with him a strong background in wrestling and rugby. Athletics and physical fitness have been part of his life for as long as he can remember.

He trained consistently, committed himself fully to learning, and ultimately made the decision to leave his career in environmental science to coach full-time—so he could focus on helping others grow through Jiu-Jitsu.

Kevin continues to train and compete, not because he has to, but because he believes in staying sharp and leading from the front. He is a Good Fight Submission Only World Champion in the Black Belt Heavyweight Division, winning both Gi and No-Gi.

That level of experience strengthens his teaching—without ever overshadowing the needs of the student in front of him.

Present, Invested, and Approachable

Kevin doesn’t just run classes—he’s part of the daily life of the academy. He stays after class to answer questions, helps students work through challenges, and trains with everyone from beginners to advanced practitioners.

He also travels regularly to support students at tournaments, coaching from the sidelines and making sure they feel prepared and confident, regardless of the outcome.

What stands out most is how seriously he takes his role as a mentor. Kevin understands that Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just about learning techniques—it’s about building confidence, discipline, and resilience over time.

A Coach Parents and Beginners Can Trust

Kevin is a family man and brings that perspective into everything he does. His classes are structured, welcoming, and focused on steady improvement—not ego, intimidation, or shortcuts.

Students are encouraged to ask questions.
Kids are taught with patience and care.
Everyone is treated with respect.

His goal is simple: help each person become more capable and confident than they were when they walked in.

Training Under Professor Kevin Southworth

If you’re new to martial arts, looking for a positive environment for your child, or searching for a coach who is present, consistent, and deeply invested in your progress, Professor Kevin Southworth is someone you can trust.

He is on the mats every day—teaching, coaching, and helping students improve one class at a time.

Ready to get started?
Begin with our Foundations Trial, meet Professor Kevin, and experience the difference in how Jiu-Jitsu is taught.

Call or text: 301-377-8773
Or contact us here: Contact Page

Lineage BJJ® — Where Greatness Begins.