ABOUT US
Welcome to Canby Jiu Jitsu!
We are a nonprofit, family-oriented gym dedicated to building a strong and supportive community through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Our mission is to create a safe, fun, and educational environment for all ages. Whether you're here to learn self-defense, improve your fitness, or foster personal growth, we’re excited to have you as part of our team.
At Canby Jiu Jitsu, we believe that martial arts can be a powerful tool for building confidence, discipline, and lifelong friendships. We offer classes for kids and adults alike, emphasizing education and technique alongside physical training. We offer a free trial for new members as a way to allow everyone to experience the transformative power of Jiu Jitsu before committing. After a free trial, we offer month-to-month membership to allow for flexibility in life's changing commitments and even drop in rates for the times when training several days a week is out of reach. We also support and encourage cross training, please reach out for details on our liberal cross training policy.
Our Culture
We offer an unpretentious and results-oriented community that’s invested in your goals and success. Check your ego at the door and get ready to sweat!
Our Mission
As a nonprofit, we’re focused on giving back to the community. We want to make Jiu Jitsu accessible for everyone, and we’re putting an emphasis on supporting kids and families in the area.
Our Philosophy
No one has ever needed help making life harder. CJJ aims to build a positive environment where everyone can grow, both on and off the mats, supporting one another along the way.
MEET OUR TEAM
Chris Bauer
Professor Chris Bauer, a second degree black belt with over 20 years of experience brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to Canby Jiu Jitsu. As an instructor who supports game theory, Chris combines technical expertise with a playful and supportive teaching style that resonates with students of all levels. His dedication to helping others succeed no matter their limitations makes him a key part of our team.
Maria Ruffatto-Gilpin
Professor Maria began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2014 in Juiz de Fora, Brazil, and has spent the last 11 years dedicated to training, competing, and now, sharing her knowledge through coaching. She believes in making Jiu-Jitsu simple, fun, and effective, whether for hobbyists or serious competitors. Maria is also a key addition to our new women’s program at CJJ!
Owen Papworth
Owen Papworth is a passionate instructor and co-founder of Canby Jiu Jitsu. With over 7 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Owen, who is currently a brown belt, is dedicated to sharing the art with students of all ages. He believes in creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere where students can thrive both on and off the mats. As a mentor, Owen focuses on not only developing his students' technical skills but also instilling values of perseverance, respect, and humility. Owen’s leadership and collaborative teaching style make him a cornerstone of the Canby Jiu Jitsu community.
Charlie Gilpin
Professor Charlie has been training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over 8 years, after a lifelong background in wrestling. Originally starting BJJ with MMA in mind, he quickly fell in love with grappling and has dedicated himself to it ever since. As a coach, Charlie loves watching students gain confidence and seeing their excitement when they learn something new.
Leah Papworth
Leah Papworth, co-founder of Canby Jiu Jitsu, plays a vital role in shaping the vision and community-centered mission of the gym. Leah combines her organizational leadership with a passion for community building and youth mentorship. She is especially dedicated to working with our youngest members, helping them learn, cooperate, and build resilience while being introduced to foundational Jiu Jitsu concepts.
Acknowledging Our Volunteer Coaching Team
Our other volunteer coaches and class assistants are the heart of Canby Jiu Jitsu. Their dedication, time, and passion for teaching help create an inclusive, safe, and enriching environment for all of our students. Through their guidance, mentorship, and encouragement, they inspire confidence, discipline, and resilience in every student who steps onto the mats. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to our mission and their contributions to our growing community. Thank you for all that you do!
We’re raising funds for renovations, new uniforms and equipment, and creating a scholarship fund to help kids in need access Jiu Jitsu classes. Please consider donating today!
AFFILIATED PROGRAMS
At Canby Jiu Jitsu, we are proud to be affiliated with organizations that align with our mission and values.
Adopt-A-Cop BJJ
A program dedicated to providing law enforcement officers with free or reduced-cost Jiu Jitsu training to improve their safety, effectiveness, and community relations. We support and encourage officers to train in Jiu Jitsu as a means of de-escalation and self-defense. We also extend membership discounts to adults in other front-line professions including Active Duty or Reserve Military, Firefighters, Nurses, and EMT's.
BJJ Globetrotters
A worldwide network of Jiu Jitsu practitioners who emphasize inclusivity, travel, and cross-training among different academies. Being part of BJJ Globetrotters allows our members to train at affiliated gyms around the world and connect with a diverse community of martial artists. We hope to start a travel scholarship fund in 2026 to provide our most dedicated students with the chance to travel the world and experience a BJJ Globetrotters camp.
“I can’t say enough things about Canby Jiu Jitsu. Owen and Leah have really made this place a home for my son. He feels comfortable, happy, excited to come to class and most of all safe. Safe to be himself, have fun, learn and know that all of the coaches are there to help him be successful.”
LEARN MORE ABOUT JIU JITSU
DOWNLOAD this free e-Book to get started.
Our Vision for the Future
At Canby Jiu Jitsu, we’re always looking forward to growing and enhancing our impact on the community. In the near future we hope to secure grant funding to expand our initiatives, including:
Providing more membership and uniform scholarships to make Jiu Jitsu accessible to families in need.
Reducing membership fees to ensure affordability for all.
Sponsoring students to compete in local, regional and national competitions.
Offering more classes, seminars, summer camps, and after school programs to engage kids in a fun and active learning environment.
Creating even more opportunities for community engagement and personal development through Jiu Jitsu and self defense.
Your support helps us work toward these goals, and we’re excited to see how Canby Jiu Jitsu can continue to make a difference.
GIVE TODAY
We’re raising funds for renovations, new uniforms & equipment, and creating a scholarship fund to help kids in need access Jiu Jitsu classes.
We believe every child deserves the chance to learn confidence, discipline, and community values, regardless of financial circumstances. Please consider donating today!
FOLLOW US
@canbyjiujitsu
