ABOUT US
Expert Instructors
Top-Notch Facility
Rich Combat Sports History
Meet Our Instructors
Dave Roy
Head Instructor3rd Degree BJJ / No-Gi Black BeltDave Roy is a pioneer of Mixed Martial Arts in New England. Realizing the paradigm shift in combat sports initiated by early UFC, Dave immediately partnered with Kirik Jenness to open the first MMA school in New England, New England Submission Fighting (NESF).
Jake Smith
Instructor & Desk ManagerNo-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt
Alex Warren
Assistant InstructorNo-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
Alex Tsang
Assistant InstructorNo-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Purple BeltCheck Out Our Facility
Large Mat Space
Mats are thoroughly cleaned after every session.
Our Rich History In Combat Sports
The Early Days of NESF
In November of 1993, a small group of Karate students watched as Royce Gracie made history by dominating the first ever Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC 1) with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Among these students was head instructor for NESF Boston, Dave Roy. Realizing the imminent paradigm shift in martial arts, Dave partnered with Kirik Jenness to open New England Submission Fighting (NESF). Located in Amherst, NESF is the oldest Mixed Martial Arts school in New England in continuous operation.
Strong Roots in MMA and Jiu-Jitsu
The foundation of NESF was built during the early stages of MMA. The style was forged through the fire of the fight game, and has retained the grit and effectiveness developed through this process. Dave Roy implemented a strong technical base, with well-rounded fundamentals and a focus on closing distance to take the fight to the ground.
An Adaptive Approach To An Evolving Sport
Over time the martial arts community evolved, and submission grappling developed as its own sport outside the world of MMA. The focus on grappling attracted more than just MMA fighters. New techniques became available in a setting where strikes were not a factor. NESF adapted, carrying its MMA roots into the world of No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu. With elements of Wrestling and Judo, NESF has developed a dominant style for No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu and MMA.
New Beginnings In Greater Boston
In October of 2023, Kirik took over as head instructor in Amherst while Dave relocated to the Greater Boston Area to open NESF Boston. With one of the only dedicated No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu programs in the area, the school offers a uniquely modern approach to grappling arts. Old and new school techniques are blended together to form a well-rounded system. The culture of NESF Boston is truly one-of-a-kind. Come see for yourself with a free trial class!
Level Up Through Our No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Ranks
White Belt
Students earn their white rash guard with their first step onto our mats. There's a boldness in entry into martial arts – starting something new can be intimidating and it deserves recognition. The white rash guard symbolizes an open mind and a willingness to learn. A student’s time at this rank is characterized by novelty and exposure to the various elements of No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu.
Green Belt
The green rash guard is given to students who have a basic familiarity with the fundamentals of the art. This is the first milestone of technical progress, indicating an initial dedication to the study and practice of Jiu-Jitsu. At this stage students become comfortable with the process of skill development and aim to create strong technical foundations. Though it is not found in every Jiu-Jitsu academy, the green rash guard marks a significant step in a martial artist’s journey.
Blue Belt
The blue rash guard is awarded to those students who demonstrate a firm grasp of Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals. With a combination of technical knowledge and practical skills, they should be able to use Jiu-Jitsu effectively against bigger and stronger untrained opponents. Students at this rank focus on converting their knowledge of the fundamentals into practical application.
Purple Belt
The purple rash guard acknowledges an adept Jiu-Jitsu practitioner. Students at this level have a sharp working knowledge of foundational techniques and are able to apply them fluidly in combination. The achievement of the purple rash guard requires an exceptional dedication to the art – a student will have continued training through trials and tribulations on and off the mat. They may begin to show an aptitude for teaching; able to show the basics to new students. This stage encourages experimentation and exploration beyond the fundamentals.
Brown Belt
The brown rash guard is awarded only to truly advanced students of the art. Through tremendous commitment, these students have developed a unique and effective style. They carry with them the rough draft of an expert’s skillset. They will spend their time further refining what they know, gaining valuable experience on the mats as they perfect their timing and mechanics. This period offers a transition from student to expert.
Black Belt
The black rash guard signifies the rank of an expert. Their Jiu-Jitsu is precise and intricate, built upon a deep understanding of underlying principles. Only the most committed martial artists ever reach this level. Many consider the achievement of this rank to be a “new beginning”, opening the door to deeper technical investigation with a new perspective.