About Us
a jiu jitsu school in downtown neenah, born from true teamwork and collaboration.
Crafted uniquely from a beginner’s passion, Fortitude Jiu-Jitsu was a project we never expected.
Having years of martial arts experience yet limited knowledge of BJJ, owner Joel Ellenbecker began our journey through holding submission grappling classes in Fortitude’s earliest years. Throughout many hours of training, competing, and dedication, he grew within the BJJ community, seeking guidance from his mentors and colleagues, while hosting class with everyone willing to learn alongside him.
Fast forward to the present— we are now part of Team Vaghi Northern Region, an affiliation with a wealth of knowledge and experience, spearheaded by Rodrigo Vaghi and upheld in our area by Professor Bill Krieg. Our class schedule and team has grown in their dedication and knowledge within the art of Jiu Jitsu, with the mission to cultivate a community of welcoming and open-minded learners. Our space is expanding to not only host a plethora of art forms with Fortitude Krav Maga, but to offer the best class times and mat space, allowing motivated students a prime space to learn and develop their skills.
“The instructors are so knowledgeable and passionate. The sense of community at Fortitude is hard to find. Everyone supports each other on the path they are on. You never feel any judgement.”
— JoBeth S.