PROFESSOR LEV PLOTKIN
Lev discovered his passion for Jiu Jitsu over 12 years ago and has been studying the discipline ever since under Professor Rodrigo Mendanha, earning his black belt in 2023.
Being a very light weight (less than 60 kg), Lev favors technical executions involving footwork, pressure, flexibility and speed, rather than strength and explosiveness. Guard passing, triangle variations, and an emphasis on tight side control are some of his favorite teaching topics, along with inversions and exploring new techniques.
Lev is extremely passionate about the sport and passes on his love for BJJ to all his students, leading competition classes and actively supporting them in regional and international tournaments.
Certifications:
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ICP Certified Instructor
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Member of the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation, IBJJF
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Member of the Ontario Jiu-Jitsu Association, OJA
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Member of the Quebec Jiu-Jitsu Federation, JJBQC Quebec Federation of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu
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Member of the NCP of the Coaching Association of Canada, Coach.ca
PROFESSOR RODRIGO MENDANHA
Rodrigo was born in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. His first martial art was wrestling, a discipline he perfected during his years living in Chicago, IL. When he returned to Brazil in 1996, Rodrigo wanted to find a school to continue his martial arts training. He found Gracie Barra BH, founded by Vinicius Magalhães "Draculino." Rodrigo already knew something about the Gracie family history and was excited to have the opportunity to practice the sport with some of the most respected masters in the world.
“I am very proud to say that I went from white belt to black belt under Draculino. He committed to teaching more than just the technical aspects of the martial art, but also emphasized Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as a life path involving social responsibility, respect, and friendship.”
PROFESSOR ANDREW PRATA
Andrew has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over 12 years, with experience in both Gi and No-Gi disciplines. Before discovering BJJ, he played junior major league baseball for the city of Repentigny, later returning to coach the same team after his time as a player.
Early in his BJJ journey, Andrew was invited to coach and teach the fundamentals class at Gracie Barra Laval while still a blue belt. It was there that he earned his purple belt. Due to professional commitments, he transitioned to Gracie Barra West Island, where he continued his training and coaching, ultimately earning his brown belt. He has consistently taught and coached both Gi and No-Gi classes throughout his progression.
Andrew has competed in several prominent tournaments, including Grappling Industries, Submission Arts United, and NAGA, frequently securing spots on the podium. His personal transformation through BJJ is equally impressive — going from 300 lbs to 175 lbs, a change he has maintained. Competing across multiple weight classes, Andrew brings a rare perspective to the mats. His experience as both a heavyweight and a lightweight has given him a deep understanding of the game from all angles — the power game of larger athletes and the technical finesse of lighter competitors.