Liz Exel
Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it, Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.
Meet Professor Liz Exell
Professor Liz, a first-degree black belt with over a decade of expertise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, has dedicated her life to both martial arts and community service. Adopted into a Navy family at a young age, she spent her formative years moving frequently, always staying close to the ocean.
With over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Professor Liz has made significant impacts in various settings such as residential treatment, intensive foster care, psychiatric hospitals, sexual assault crisis advocacy, disaster response teams, and county behavioral health. She is particularly adept at supporting foster/adoptive families, trauma survivors, immigrant families, and at-risk youth.
Under the mentorship of Professor Beto, she earned her black belt in 2018. Since then, she has achieved remarkable success, securing three No-Gi world championship titles and excelling in major Gi tournaments, including winning the Pan American and Masters World Championship titles in 2023.
In January 2022, Professor Liz transitioned from her county job to fully immerse herself in the world of Jiu-Jitsu. She now thrives as an instructor, competitor, coach, and referee. Residing in Ventura, she continues to inspire and lead within the community, fostering personal growth and resilience through martial arts.
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Your Potential Today!
We’ve witnessed countless students evolve from curious beginners into confident, skilled practitioners. Through world-class instruction and a supportive community, you’ll discover strength you never knew you had.
Your transformation begins with one free class. No experience needed. No pressure. Just pure, life-changing Vilanova Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
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