IBJJF Masters World Champion. Co-founder of Van Isle BJJ. The heart of our coaching staff — patient, precise, and deeply committed to every student’s journey.
Professor Matt de Groot is the co-founder of Van Isle Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and a lifelong martial artist with more than 15 years on the mats. Patient, precise, and deeply encouraging, Matt has helped hundreds of Victoria students build real skill, real confidence, and lasting community at Van Isle.
Matt earned his BJJ black belt under Prof. Filip Matos at the Roll Academy. He is a decorated competitor in his own right: IBJJF Masters World Champion (2016), IBJJF Pan American Champion (2018), and a three-time IBJJF Seattle International Open Champion. He’s also a two-time B.C. Provincial Champion, a Judo brown belt, and has been training martial arts since he picked up Shotokan Karate at age 6.
Book a Class with Prof. Matt →Matt has competed — and won — at world, international, and provincial levels, often against opponents up to 30 lbs heavier than him.
A favourite moment from his career: in 2016 Matt captured a world title in the same bracket as his own student, Fred Jaskiewicz — a moment that captures exactly what makes him special. Matt doesn’t just train champions, he trains alongside them.
Matt is the heart of the Van Isle coaching staff. His teaching is methodical and precise — you’ll never finish a class with him wondering what the move actually was. He has an exceptional ability to meet every student exactly where they are. Beginners feel safe and informed; competitors feel pushed and refined.
If you train with Matt long enough, you’ll notice that he doesn’t just teach Jiu Jitsu — he teaches a way of approaching the sport. Patient, humble, technical, and relentlessly committed to your growth.
“From day one, I was warmly welcomed at Van Isle, made to feel like I was part of something. If you’re wondering if this is for you: try it. You’ll never regret it.” — Stu Robertson, Blue Belt
“The quality of instruction and professionalism here are top-tier.” — Steven Santos, White Belt
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Your first class is free. Come learn from one of the most decorated and patient coaches in B.C.
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