BIO

After moving to New Zealand in 2009, Vanderson became head trainer at the Combat Room Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Wellington.

Vanderson attributes his broad technical expertise to his experience in training and teaching in clubs all around the world, including in Brazil, Australia, London and Spain. His technique focussed and relaxed style has proven successful with his students at Combat Room BJJ and those who compete internationally.

Combat Room BJJ is a well-established club in the New Zealand Brazilian Jiu Jitsu community, affiliated with Tukaha BJJ in Auckland as well as Valley BJJ in Lower Hutt, Combat Room BJJ Palmerston North and Combat Room BJJ Hastings.

HOW DID YOU CHOOSE THE SCHOOL’S NAME?

When I came to Wellington, New Zealand in 2009, a group of people were training BJJ, Judo and Kickboxing casually in a very small place named Combat Room.

They disbanded but the gratitude I had to find a community in a new country inspired me to continue the name when I started my own school 10 years ago. Combat Room Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a community where we share the knowledge of BJJ and to foster the personal growth that comes with learning a martial art.

WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

What inspires me is the challenges that life presents and the lessons I learn by connecting with people and nature.

WHAT IS SOMETHING SPECIAL OR UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL AND STUDENTS?

My school is in a busy area of central Wellington and provides a a safe sanctuary for people to come together to share the passion of BJJ. BJJ is relatively young in New Zealand, but the community we have built is strong and very supportive of each other. My students are passionate and eager to learn, they inspire me and each other to be the best version of ourselves.

WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE FUJI MATS ?

I’m always looking to improve my school and I want to offer the best to my students. FUJI Mats are the best on the market. Very high quality and excellent custom service. Jimmy Pedro is a expert with the highest standards.

What is the most rewarding part about working in the martial arts field?

I’m very grateful to share my passion and devotion to BJJ with my students. I get to train and practice BJJ everyday and I get to watch my students grow and develop on their BJJ journey.

WHERE ARE YOU BASED?

Our club located at Level 2, 302 Taranaki Street, Wellington. We have a strength and conditioning gym and a large mats area. We hold beginners classes, women’s classes, no gi classes and kid’s classes.

We pride ourselves on being an inclusive, clean and safe place to learn and practice BJJ.