Gary Whitten

Meet Coach Gary Whitten: A Combat Veteran and Founding Instructor at Lineage BJJ® in St. Mary's County Maryland

Gary Whitten brings a unique blend of dedication, military discipline, and expert instruction to Lineage BJJ®. As an integral part of our teaching faculty, Gary leads the Jr. Grapplers and Little Sharks classes, while also imparting knowledge in intermittent adult classes.

Gary's journey into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) began in a place far removed from the tranquil environments of Lineage BJJ®: the harsh landscapes of Afghanistan in 2008. It was there, during his honorable service in the U.S. Army, that Gary was introduced to Jiu-Jitsu by his Platoon Sergeant. The art’s combination of physical exercise and self-defense instantly struck a chord, and upon his return stateside, he sought to further his training in Virginia, ultimately finding a home at Calvert MMA®.

A Battle-Hardened Veteran with a Gentle Touch

Gary is a combat veteran who honed his martial arts skills through the Army Combatives program. However, don't let his battle-tested background fool you. He's known for his good humor, patient instruction, and his incredible ability to connect with his young students in the Little Sharks and Junior Grapplers classes. He takes immense joy in infusing his teachings with laughter and lightheartedness, making learning an engaging and enjoyable experience.

As one of the founding coaches at our Lineage BJJ® location, Gary resonates with a sense of camaraderie reminiscent of his military days. It's in this spirit of brotherhood and unity that he thrives, fostering a welcoming environment that facilitates growth for all practitioners, regardless of their experience or background.

A Coach On and Off the Mats

Beyond his coaching responsibilities, Gary remains an active competitor, proudly representing Lineage BJJ® as a Purple Belt. His dedication, however, goes beyond his own personal success. He stands as a pillar of support for his teammates and students at every level, providing guidance, encouragement, and the warmth of a mentor who genuinely cares.

Experience Transformation with Coach Gary Whitten

With Gary Whitten as part of our Lineage BJJ® family, you're not just signing up for martial arts classes. You're stepping into a journey of growth, camaraderie, and personal development under the guidance of a seasoned veteran. Enlist in the transformative power of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu today, and let your personal victory story begin.