Daniel Tavares

My name is Daniel Tavares. I am a father, husband, fighter and a Professor who is constantly looking to chase my student’s dreams. My main focus is to help others to reach their goals not just in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but in life. For me, to show character, integrity and respect for others is more important than just the sport. I want to create champions on and off the mat, always making winning attitudes with dedication and sportsmanship.

I was born and raised in Fortaleza, Brazil. My Jiu-Jitsu journey began in 1997 at the age of 17. I had the first contact with Jiu-Jitsu with my cousin, Claudio Pires. From the moment that I stepped on the “tatame” (mat), I knew that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was my passion. I have since pursued this art with greatintensity, rigorous training, and disciplined conditioning. Additionally, I served my community as an instructor for the 5th Battalion Quarters of the military police in Ceara.

As a world-class professional athlete with numerous victories in my native Brazil, I was awarded the black belt by Master Francisco Sa (of SAS Team) in 2005. Although this achievement was symbolic of reaching the highest rank in the sport, it also represented a new chapter in my life.

In 2007, I accepted an invitation by, at that time, 3rd degree Black Belt Professor Ademir Oliveira (Team Oliveira/SAS) to share his knowledge with American BJJ students in New Jersey. As an ambassador of this art, I passionately embraced the opportunity to bring this proficiency to the U.S. and cultivated a strong student body in South Jersey.

I have dedicated my life to teaching others about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and changing people’s lives. I am always looking to help the community in different ways. I am constantly organizing donation drives with my students, for example collecting coats and warm jackets for kids and adults during the winter season, as well as donating new toys for “Toys for Tots. I offer free seminars for Police Department Officers, Correctional Officers, and Fire Company Personnel throughout all South Jersey, along with seminars for Women’s Self-Defense and discounts for employees from the community.