Element Academy of Jiu-Jitsu is lead by UFC Veteran Mackens Semerzier.

Professor Mackens is originally from Miami, Florida and is a lifelong Martial Artist. He has taught, competed, and coached at the highest levels of Martial Arts. He has extensive experience in wrestling, boxing, muay thai kickboxing, mixed martial arts, military defensive tactics, and personal self-defense to complement his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu knowledge. Mackens has been teaching formal classes since 2002, starting with security courses while enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Mackens served for 8 years and reached the rank of Sergeant. While on active duty he spent time as a FAST Company Squad Leader, Forward Observer during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and taught Security Courses to young Marines before being Honorably Discharged. After completion of his military service he continued to pursue his Martial Arts passion which allowed him to train, teach, and compete across the world. 

Notable Achievements:

• WEC / UFC - 2 Time Fight Bonus Award Winner (Submission of the Night & Fight of the Night)

• 2009 MMA WORLD RANKED at #10 in the Featherweight Division

• Multiple time regional BJJ Gi and No-Gi Champion

• Multiple time WKA MMA Featherweight Champion 

• Military Combatives Instructor 

Professor Mackens was awarded his Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2013 after only 7 years of dedicated training. In 2022 8th Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu White and Red Belt, Master Luiz Palhares promoted Mackens to 3rd Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt. 

Mackens is known for his light hearted personality, sharp technique, and passionate commitment to teaching students of all skill levels.

• Ages 5-13

• All youth students start in our Youth Fundamental Jiu-Jitsu Program which is specifically designed to help instill the most important techniques and tactics of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

• Youth Self-Defense taught in a fun and energetic way by certified expert instructors in a clean, safe, and friendly environment. 

• Students learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu concepts and techniques that are adapted to young students for maximum effectiveness. 

• Our Youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Program builds confidence, discipline, teamwork, and physical fitness. 

• We use an online rank tracking system for easy progression tracking and belt promotion updates. 

• No experience is necessary and those with experience are always welcome; the first week is FREE and no gear is needed, just come in and have some fun. 

• Students are always paired and separated by age, size, and experience level to maintain a fun and safe training environment.