New Lenox, Illinois · Est. 2011
Real Jiu-Jitsu.
Built for you.
Build confidence, get stronger, and learn practical self-defense. Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and judo for kids and adults—with a place for complete beginners.
Choose “2 Week trial” on our registration page. No experience needed.
Self-defense firstPractical skills. Position before submission.
3rd-degree black beltLed by Coach Steve Patterson.
Since 2011Training the New Lenox community.
Your first step starts here
Find your place
on the mat.
Train for confidence, fitness, self-defense, or competition. Start with the program that fits you.
Confidence starts with the right coach.
Kids Coach
Stephanie Lain
BJJ brown belt
IBJJF Worlds runner-up
Pan American gold medalist
Coach Stephanie combines technical skill with patience and encouragement. She helps kids build confidence, discipline, and respect in a structured, engaging class—on and off the mat.
Ask About Classes with Coach Stephanie →A stronger version of you.
Learn takedowns, control, escapes, and submissions in a welcoming, hardworking room. Morning, evening, and Saturday classes fit different schedules.
Start an Adult Trial →Learn day-one skills on day one.
An eight-week course built for adults starting from scratch. Learn the fundamentals step by step with other beginners.
View Beginner Course Registration →Start together. Build confidence.
A women’s-only, eight-week introduction to Jiu-Jitsu. Build a foundation in practical self-defense and grappling in a supportive group.
View Women’s Course Registration →Beginner courses run in sessions. Email us to confirm the next start date and availability before enrolling.
University of Ground Fighting
Experienced coaching.
Real progress.
Our approach blends Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and judo. You’ll learn to take the fight to the ground, control your position, and build technique through consistent practice.
Coach Steve Patterson
Owner & Head Coach
3rd-degree BJJ black belt
Judo black belt
9 years of wrestling
Former professional MMA fighter
Make training part of your week
Class schedule.
Find a time that works, then take your first step. Our regular classes alternate Gi and No-Gi weeks.
All times are Central. Contact us for holiday changes and the current Gi / No-Gi week.
| Program | Days | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kids | Mon–Thu | 5:00–6:00 PM |
| Adults | Mon / Wed / Fri | 9:00 AM |
| Adults | Mon–Fri | 6:30 PM |
| Adults | Saturday | 10:00 AM |
| Beginner course | Friday | 6:30–7:15 PM |
| Women’s course | Saturday | 9:00 AM |
Eight-week courses require separate enrollment.
From a UofGF parent
More than techniques.
“I attribute it to the positive, accountable, respectful style that he learned from his first coach!”— Emily, UofGF parent
New to Jiu-Jitsu?
You don’t need to be ready.
You just need to start.
Choose your first step.
Try two weeks of regular classes, or select an eight-week beginner course on our registration page.
Plan your first class.
Email Coach Steve with your program and preferred class time. We’ll help you choose the right place to begin.
Meet your team.
Bring water and comfortable workout clothes. Tell your coach you’re new, and we’ll guide you from there.
Do I need experience or need to get in shape first?
No. Beginners are welcome. Start where you are and build fitness and skill through consistent training. Our eight-week courses offer a structured introduction.
Do I need to buy a Gi before my first class?
No. A Gi is not required to get started. Bring comfortable workout clothes and water. Contact us before your first visit for guidance on the current training week.
What does membership cost after the trial?
Regular monthly memberships are $180 for one person, $300 for two family members, and $400 for three or more family members. Eight-week beginner courses are $200 and are enrolled separately. Review current terms during registration.
Which course should I choose?
The adult beginner course meets Fridays at 6:30 PM. The women’s-only beginner course meets Saturdays at 9:00 AM. Both run for eight weeks. Email us to confirm the next session and available spots.
Where is the academy?
University of Ground Fighting is at 12540 Harvey Drive, New Lenox, IL 60451. Email Stevenjpatterson@gmail.com with questions before your first visit.
Your first class is the beginning
Step onto the mat.
Jiu-Jitsu for kids and adults in New Lenox.
Select “2 Week trial” on the registration page.
Questions? Email Coach Steve.