Coach Gabriel Pankhurst
Wrestling Instructor | Grappling Coach
Coach Gabriel Pankhurst is a valued member of the Lineage BJJ coaching team, bringing deep wrestling knowledge, a thoughtful teaching style, and a calm, steady presence to the mats. His role within the academy helps bridge the gap between wrestling fundamentals and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a way that is safe, structured, and approachable for students of all ages.
Gabe works closely with both adult and youth classes, helping students develop strong takedowns, balance, and positional awareness—skills that form the foundation of effective grappling.
A Background Built on Wrestling and Learning
Gabriel spent many years as a high-level wrestling competitor, followed by time coaching wrestlers and developing athletes through careful, fundamentals-based instruction. Wrestling has been a central part of his life, not just as a sport, but as a discipline built on consistency, control, and smart decision-making.
Alongside his athletic background, Gabe is trained and works as an engineer, which strongly influences how he teaches. He naturally breaks movements down into clear steps, explains concepts in simple terms, and helps students understand why techniques work—not just how to perform them.
That combination makes his instruction especially effective for beginners and younger students.
Clear, Safe Instruction for Kids and Adults
Parents appreciate Gabe’s calm demeanor and attention to detail. He takes safety seriously and understands how to teach grappling in a way that builds confidence without overwhelming students.
In youth classes, he helps children develop coordination, balance, and body awareness while reinforcing discipline and good habits. His ability to communicate clearly and patiently makes kids feel comfortable and supported on the mats.
In adult classes, Gabe focuses on practical wrestling concepts for Jiu-Jitsu—helping students improve their takedowns, transitions, and overall control in a way that fits seamlessly into the Lineage curriculum.
Why Wrestling Matters at Lineage BJJ
Having a coach like Gabe on the mats allows Lineage BJJ to integrate high-level wrestling fundamentals into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training without sacrificing safety or structure.
Students benefit from:
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Improved takedowns and balance
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Better control in standing and scrambles
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Increased confidence transitioning between wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu
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Instruction that is methodical, patient, and easy to understand
Gabe’s presence strengthens the entire program—especially for students who want a well-rounded grappling foundation.
A Coach Parents and Students Trust
Outside the academy, Gabe is a dedicated family man, and his son also trains at Lineage BJJ. That perspective matters. He understands what parents want for their children and what adults need from a training environment: safety, clarity, and steady progress.
Students consistently describe Gabe as approachable, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in their improvement.
Training with Coach Gabriel Pankhurst
Training with Coach Gabriel Pankhurst means learning from someone who values fundamentals, safety, and long-term development. Whether you are new to martial arts, looking to strengthen your wrestling for Jiu-Jitsu, or searching for a program you can trust for your child, Gabe is a coach who brings confidence and clarity to the mats.
Interested in training at Lineage BJJ?
Start with our FREE 7-Day Intro Pass , meet the instructors, and see how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is taught as a complete system— clearly, safely, and with purpose.
Call or text: 301-377-8773
Or reach out through our online contact form with any questions.
Gabe Pankhurst