Jonathan Fender

Coach Jon Fender

Coach Jon Fender is one of those instructors people feel comfortable around almost immediately. Calm, patient, and genuinely kind, Jon brings a thoughtful, approachable teaching style to Lineage BJJ that resonates with beginners, parents, and experienced students alike.

Born and raised in Southern Maryland, Jon’s path into martial arts wasn’t the typical one. He didn’t grow up as a traditional athlete. Instead, he was drawn to books, video games, and problem-solving—interests that would later shape how he approaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Discovering Jiu-Jitsu—and Sticking With It

Jon first discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2019. What caught his attention wasn’t just the physical challenge, but the mental side of the art—the idea that Jiu-Jitsu is a kind of physical chess match, built on decisions, timing, and problem-solving.

When Jon walked through the doors of Calvert MMA for the first time, it took real courage. Training was exhausting and uncomfortable at first, and like many beginners, he questioned whether he had made the right choice. But before long, that uncertainty turned into commitment. He began training consistently, attending classes, open mats, and learning under the guidance of Professor Jim Thrift.

When Lineage BJJ opened closer to home, Jon’s involvement deepened even further.

A Teacher Who Understands Beginners

Jon earned his blue belt in 2021 and was soon trusted to teach fundamentals classes and host open mats—experiences that significantly sharpened his understanding of Jiu-Jitsu and how people learn it. In 2024, he was promoted to purple belt by Professor Jim Thrift and Professor Kevin Southworth.

Today, Jon teaches Sunday Fundamentals and helps lead the Mat Munchkins program (ages 3–4) on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:00 PM. He also assists across youth classes, competition training, and adult classes whenever needed.

Jon’s teaching style is deliberate and hands-on. He prefers teaching techniques in a clear, linear progression, focusing on depth rather than rushing through material. He helps students understand not just what to do, but why it works—and how one decision leads naturally to the next.

He often describes this approach as “dilemma-based Jiu-Jitsu”: putting an opponent into predictable situations and being prepared for either outcome. For students, this creates clarity, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the art.

A Coach Parents and Kids Trust

Jon’s calm demeanor makes him especially effective with young students. He teaches the Mat Munchkins program alongside Professor Southworth, bringing patience, warmth, and consistency to the youngest members of the academy. His own daughter trains in the program, giving him a parent’s perspective on safety, structure, and trust.

Parents appreciate how approachable Jon is, and kids respond to the way he explains things clearly without pressure or frustration.

A Pillar of the Lineage Community

Beyond the mats, Jon is deeply rooted in the Lineage community. He has been with the team since the early days at Calvert MMA and continues to support the academy in every way he can. He is married to Lineage program manager Whitney Fouch, and together they are a steady, positive presence within the school.

Jon is the kind of instructor who shows up, helps wherever needed, and genuinely cares about the people around him.

Training with Coach Jon Fender

Training with Coach Jon Fender means learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a supportive, thoughtful environment where questions are welcome and progress is built step by step. He is especially well-suited for beginners, kids, and anyone who wants to truly understand the art—not just go through the motions.

If you’re looking for a coach who is patient, intelligent, and deeply invested in his students’ growth, Jon is someone you’ll be excited to train with.

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.

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