Gabe Pankhurst

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 immediately applicable 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, well-rounded 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.

This combination of high-level experience and structured thinking makes his instruction especially effective for beginners, youth students, and anyone looking to build a strong technical foundation.

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 positive habits. His ability to communicate clearly and patiently makes kids feel comfortable, supported, and engaged.

In adult classes, Gabe focuses on practical wrestling concepts for Jiu-Jitsu—helping students improve their takedowns, transitions, and control in a way that integrates seamlessly into the Lineage BJJ® curriculum.

Why Wrestling Matters at Lineage BJJ

Having a coach like Gabe on the mats allows Lineage BJJ® to incorporate high-level wrestling fundamentals into training without sacrificing safety, structure, or long-term development.

Students benefit from:

• Improved takedowns and balance

• Better control in standing exchanges and scrambles

• Increased confidence transitioning between wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu

• Instruction that is methodical, patient, and easy to apply

Gabe’s presence strengthens the entire program—especially for students who want a complete grappling skill set rather than a one-dimensional approach.

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 every class.

Ready to build a complete grappling foundation?
Start with our Foundations Trial, meet our coaching team, and experience how wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu come together the right way.

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

Lineage BJJ® — Where Greatness Begins.