07/12/2026
After 36 incredible years, I have made the difficult decision to officially retire and close the Theodorou Academy of Jiu-Jitsu. Our final day of classes will be August 31st.
This has not been an easy decision. The academy has been far more than a place to learn Jiu-Jitsu, it has been a community, a second home, and a place where lifelong friendships have been built. For over three decades, I have had the privilege of teaching students of all ages and backgrounds, watching them grow not only as martial artists but as individuals. That has been one of the greatest honors of my life.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to our great students and instructors. Whether you have trained with me for decades or only recently joined the academy, your dedication, trust, and support have meant more than I can adequately express. You have helped create an environment built on respect, perseverance, humility, and camaraderie. Those values will remain long after the doors close.
We look forward to seeing students train through these final weeks as we celebrate everything we have built together and give the academy the farewell it deserves.
For students who wish to continue training we have some great news! We have a sister school in Natick, the Metrowest Academy of Jiu Jitsu, that is lead by Sensei Paul Dirienzo a 4th degree black belt in our system. I plan on guest instructing there every few weeks.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey. Running the Theodorou Academy of Jiu-Jitsu has been one of the greatest privileges of my life, and I will always be grateful for the friendships, memories, and experiences we have shared together.
I have shared some pictures here that show the community we had on and off the mats and will continue to share more pictures from the past as we wrap up through August.
With sincere gratitude and respect,
Sensei Nick
