Certifications
Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Purple Belt
Biography
Gary Whitten serves Lineage as a frequent instructor of our Jr. Grapplers and Little Sharks classes as well as intermittent adult instruction.
Gary discovered Jiu-Jitsu while serving in Afghanistan in 2008 when his Platoon Sergeant introduced it as a combined form of exercise and extra self-defense training.
After returning to the United States, he began training in Virginia and continued at Calvert MMA. In BJJ, Gary discovered brotherhood reminiscent of that found in the military, and Calvert MMA offered a welcoming atmosphere to grow in his training.
Gary is a founding coach at the Lineage Location, and well known for his good humor, patient instruction and as a favorite among the Little Sharks and Junior Grapplers classes. He enjoys bringing joy and humor to his instruction and encouraging learning through fun.
Gary enjoys competing as a Purple Belt, as well as coaching from the sidelines at competition for his teammates and students at all levels.
Quote from Gary:
“My favorite part of teaching is seeing the kids progress and come out of their shells. They come in doubting themselves and lacking self-confidence, and then once they start having fun and learning, they grow quickly.”