Brock Francis

Brock was first introduced to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in 2017 while living in Charleston, South Carolina, through the kids’ Bullyproof program. After researching various Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu options, he chose Gracie Jiu-Jitsu for his two young daughters because of its professional, structured, and safety-focused approach, as well as its strong emphasis on real-world self-defense. When he was unable to find a nearby Gracie Certified Training Center, Brock enrolled his daughters in Gracie University’s online program and began training them at home using GU’s virtual instruction. The experience quickly became a family passion, sparking Brock’s own interest in beginning his jiu-jitsu journey.

After relocating to Maryland in 2019, Brock enrolled at the nearest Gracie University Certified Training Center in Leesburg, Virginia, where he trained under black belt Marco Moreno. Upon earning his blue belt in 2021, Brock entered the Gracie University Instructor Certification Program and began teaching as an Assistant Instructor under Marco. In early 2022, when a new CTC opened closer to home in Frederick—HanMi Martial Arts / Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Frederick—Brock transitioned there to continue both his training and teaching. Following the closure of HanMi/GJJ Frederick in July 2024, Brock opened Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Frederick just a few months later.

Beyond training his daughters, Brock also introduced his wife, Julie, to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, helping her earn her Combatives Belt in 2021. Brock is deeply grateful for the opportunity to share Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with his family and to serve the Frederick community by teaching this life-changing martial art.