Meet Our
Instructors
Tradition Jiu-Jitsu Academy is the first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school that is based in the heart of Tradition, Port St. Lucie and provides kids and adults training programs. Our classes are instructed by Valeria and Mateo Nunez, whom offer a detailed insight into the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for all skill levels.
The Nunez couple have extensively trained and competed over the years and train regularly to stay up to date with the current techniques to provide new and advanced students in basic fundamental self-defense methods and advanced level training. They accommodate both the beginner students and competitors, and seek to improve their student's performance in the art of Brazilian Jiu jitsu.
Jiu-Jitsu Instructor / Brown BeltIBJJF Verified RefereeCertified Personal Trainer
Born and raised in Costa Rica, Valeria Nunez discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2010. As a college rugby player, she initially sought strength training at the gym to enhance her performance on the field. It was there that she was first introduced to Jiu-Jitsu. At first, she was hesitant to try it, already deeply committed to rugby. However, her passion for Jiu-Jitsu grew so strong that she ultimately decided to leave rugby behind to dedicate herself fully to the sport.
In 2014, Valeria took her first steps into coaching, teaching both kids' and women's Jiu-Jitsu classes. It was during this time that she realized her true passion—helping others grow and improve through Jiu-Jitsu. Committed to enhancing her teaching abilities, she pursued additional certifications, including a personal trainer certification and other functional training courses to complement her instruction.
In 2017, Valeria was promoted to brown belt under Roger Coelho, a significant milestone in her Jiu-Jitsu journey. Two years later, in 2019, she moved to the United States. In 2020, she made the difficult decision to step away from training to focus on raising her children.
By the end of 2023, Valeria returned to the mats as a mother of two, ready to continue growing both as a student and as an instructor. She also became a NASM-certified personal trainer, further expanding her ability to guide students toward their personal and physical development.
With years of experience as a competitor, instructor, and trainer, Valeria is dedicated to using her knowledge to empower women and children both emotionally and physically through Jiu-Jitsu. She believes that the lessons learned on the mats extend far beyond training sessions, shaping individuals into stronger, more confident versions of themselves. As she often says, "You have to be a black belt inside and outside the mats."
Lineage: Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie > Helio Gracie > Rickson Gracie > Marcelo Behring > Waldomiro Perez > Roberto Godoi/Jorge Patino > Roger Coelho
Favorite Position/Technique: Half Guard
Jiu-Jitsu Instructor / Black Belt
Mateo Nunez’s passion for sports and martial arts began at the young age of six and has remained a driving force throughout his life. His introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu came through a unique opportunity—while working alongside UFC referee Mario Yamasaki. After attending his first Jiu-Jitsu class, Mateo was instantly hooked, marking the start of his journey in November 2007 under the Yamasaki family. He progressed through the ranks under the instruction of Fernando Yamasaki, earning his purple belt along the way.
In 2012, Mateo further refined his skills under the mentorship of David “The Rock” Jacobs (Rest in Peace) and Abmar Barbosa. Training diligently under their guidance, he was awarded his brown belt in 2014. He continued training with them until 2019, when he transitioned to Conquest BJJ, where he trained under Vicente Junior. In 2022, Mateo achieved a significant milestone—earning his black belt from Vicente Junior, a highly respected instructor who holds his black belt under the legendary Ricardo De La Riva.
After relocating to Florida, Mateo became a part of the Brazilian Top Team, training under world-class black belt competitor Gabriel Procópio Fonseca. Despite his busy schedule as an instructor, he remains an active competitor, regularly testing his skills in high-level Jiu-Jitsu tournaments.
Since 2011, Mateo has been a dedicated competitor, consistently medaling in various Jiu-Jitsu events, including numerous IBJJF Championships and Super Fights. Some of his most notable accomplishments include winning 1st place at the ADCC Virginia Beach Nationals, winning 1st place at the IBJJF New York Pro, and earning victory at Fight2Win Pro 53MD, where he was awarded the coveted "Fight of the Night" honor as a brown belt.
With years of experience competing and training under world-class instructors, Mateo remains committed to sharing his knowledge and expertise with the students of Tradition Jiu-Jitsu Academy. His dedication to the art and his passion for teaching ensure that every student benefits from the techniques, values, and lessons he has acquired throughout his Jiu-Jitsu journey.
Lineage: Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie > Carlson Gracie > Ricardo De La Riva > Vicente Júnior > Mateo Nunez
Favorite Position/Technique: Lasso Guard
