Why North Bay Jiu Jitsu?
Structured Curriculum
Progress through a clear system designed for long-term developement, not random techniques.
Professional Coaching
Experienced instructors who prioritize safety, fundamentals and real growth.
Supportive Community
Beginner-friendly culture where kids and adults train with confidence.
Programs
Kids Jiu Jitsu
Structured classes that help kids build discipline, confidence, and coordination.
Students learn strong fundamentals in a safe and supportive environment while developing focus, teamwork, and resilience.
Adult Jiu Jitsu
A structured training program for beginners and experienced students alike.
Classes focus on fundamentals, technical improvement, and a positive team culture.
No Gi Jiu Jitsu
Fast-paced grappling that emphasizes wrestling, control, and submissions without the traditional gi.
Great for building athleticism and expanding your overall grappling skills.
Proudly serving Novato since 2014
Over 2,300 students trained.
INSTRUCTORS
Tryfon Stathopoulos
• Founder/Owner
• 2x World Champion
• 25+ years experience
Tryfon Stathopoulos is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. Teaching since 2005, he has helped more than 2,300 students in Novato develop confidence, discipline, and real skill.
Sonia Lastreto
• Brown belt instructor
• Academy administrator
• 8+ years experience
Sonia began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2014 and is a brown belt at North Bay Jiu-Jitsu. A seasoned competitor with medals at IBJJF Worlds and other major events, she manages the academy and coaches the Women’s and Youth programs.
Chris Cashman
• Founding member
• Black belt instructor
• 15+ years experience
Chris Cashman earned his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt in 2021, becoming North Bay Jiu-Jitsu’s first black belt. He teaches both Gi and No-Gi and is known for his attention to detail and strong work ethic.
Sebastian Uhalde
• Brown belt instructor
• Experienced competitor
• 8+ years experience
Sebastian is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt and accomplished competitor, earning gold medals at the JJWL Golden State Open. He is known for his tenacity and plays an active role at North Bay Jiu-Jitsu, assisting with the Kids program and hosting Saturday Open Mat.
Paulo Silva
• Black belt instructor
• Main kids instructor
• 10+ years experience
Paulo Silva has trained at North Bay Jiu-Jitsu since 2012 and has been teaching since 2014. A black belt with a degree in psychology, he coaches both kids and adults and is known for his thoughtful, disciplined instruction.
Dmytro Pakhan
• BJJ Purple belt
• Degree in physical ed.
• 20+ years boxing coach
Dmytro Pakhan is a seasoned amateur boxer with over 20 years of experience and a degree in Physical Education. He is also a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt and has coached numerous boxers and MMA athletes throughout his career. He leads the MMA Fitness program at North Bay Jiu-Jitsu.
Jacob Miller
• BJJ Blue belt
• Avid competitor
• No Gi specialist
Jacob Miller is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu blue belt under Tryfon and serves as Team Captain of the No-Gi Competition Team. Specializing in No-Gi, he leads the No-Gi Training Lab and is known for his technical precision and competitive drive.