About us

Dteam

D-TEAM is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy in Tempe, Arizona, built on discipline, respect, and steady progression. The academy welcomes adults, kids, and families who want structured training in a supportive and focused environment.

At the center of D-TEAM is head coach Johnny Wirtlock.

Meet the Coach Jonny

Jonny is the head coach and leader of D-TEAM. He began training Jiu-Jitsu in late 2013 and has dedicated himself to the art ever since. Over the years, Jiu-Jitsu has become more than a hobby — it has been a major part of his life and personal growth. His time on the mats has shaped his teaching style: focused, practical, and always evolving.

Mission as a Coach

Jonny’s priority is helping students reach their own goals — whether that means getting in shape, building confidence, learning self-defense, competing, or simply enjoying Jiu-Jitsu. His aim is to build a welcoming team environment where everyone can improve together.

Coaching Philosophy

Jonny’s goal as an instructor is to create a training environment that is fun, safe, and challenging. He believes students improve fastest when they enjoy coming to class, feel supported by their teammates, and train hard while taking care of one another.

Teaching Approach

Jonny emphasizes concepts over memorization. Instead of forcing everyone into the same style, he teaches the principles of Jiu-Jitsu so students can develop a game that fits their body and goals. His approach is practical and MMA-influenced, with a strong focus on dominant positions such as top control and back control.

Competition Experience

Jonny has competed regularly and understands that both winning and losing are part of the learning process. With a balanced competition record and multiple podium finishes (including events with 2–3 competitor brackets), he brings real experience from competition into the classroom.

He has also cornered an amateur MMA fighter to two victories, including a knockout and a referee stoppage.

Our teaching focuses on concepts, strong fundamentals, and practical application, helping students develop a style of Jiu-Jitsu that works for their body and goals.