Coach Sal
Sal first stepped on a mat at twelve years old for wrestling, and immediately fell in love. The grind on the mat was something that could never be recreated. After wrestling for DeKalb High School and one year at Millikin University, Sal found an MMA school and decided to see if it could scratch that wrestling itch.
After being kicked and punched multiple times by professional MMA fighters, Sal decided that maybe the “gentle” art was more up his alley.
Since 2008, Sal has been competing, training and teaching Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at a variety of gyms throughout the Chicagoland area. Sal, along with many others, found a home at Pica Pau Jiu Jitsu and Grappling with his friends where he has been teaching and training since they opened.
The goal at Sal’s Jiu Jitsu and Grappling is to spread the Train Hard, Be Kind values and culture throughout the grappling community and to build something wonderful here in Northern Illinois.
Our Coaches
Meet Our Coaches!!! Every Coach at Sal's brings extensive knowledge, not only in Coaching, but in High Level Competition in their Discipline!!
MMA COACH
Victor Aguirre
Victor is a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and is Undefeated in MMA, with 100% submission rate! Victor teaches MMA Wednesday and Thursday at 630pm!
Boxing Coach
Ramon Santillano
Ramon is a former Dallas Gold Glove champion and California Silver Glove winner. He has been active around the sport of boxing, either competing or training fighters for over 30 years.
Muay Thai / Fitness Coach
Charlie Nellinger
Charlie is a professional Muay Thai fighter with experience training and fighting in Thailand. Charlie is also a personal trainer and heads up our fitness classes.
Assistant Kid's Coach
Maddie Smith
Maddie has a ton of experience working with little ones, and all the patience needed to head up our 3 to 5 year olds classes.