Meet the Team

PROFESSIONAL BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU INSTRUCTORS

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Head Professor · 2nd Degree Black Belt

Thiago "Soldier" Teixeira

Professor Thiago Teixeira Pegado is a highly respected Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach and strength and conditioning specialist, with extensive experience in athlete development and performance.

A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Professor Daniel Almeida and Professor Bruno Bastos, Professor Thiago combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of the physical and mental demands of combat sports. His approach to coaching is grounded in discipline, consistency, and long-term development.

With a background that includes military service and 7 years of leading physical training, he developed a strong foundation in structure, resilience, and performance — qualities that continue to influence his coaching philosophy today.

Professor Thiago also holds a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education, along with multiple qualifications in fitness, coaching, leadership, and management. This combination of academic knowledge and practical experience allows him to deliver well-rounded, effective training programs tailored to individuals of all levels.

As both a competitor and coach, he understands firsthand what it takes to perform at a high level. His work has been recognised through partnerships and sponsorships with organisations such as the New Zealand Warriors, Crew Commercial, Autex Acoustics, and Red Belt Nutrition, reflecting his credibility and impact within the industry.

Professor Thiago's mission is to help individuals not only improve their physical performance but also develop confidence, discipline, and a strong mindset that extends beyond training.

Qualifications

• Degree in Physical Education
• Certificate III in Business
• Certificate IV in Marketing
• Diploma in Management
• Certificate II, III, IV & Diploma in Sports Coaching
• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment
• Certificate III & IV in Fitness
• Advanced Diploma in Leadership & Management
• Group Training Specialisation
• Community Coaching
• Program Specialisation
• COVID Safe Martial Arts Instructor Certificate
• PCYC QLD COVID Safe Plan for Clubs
• PCYC QLD Infection Control Training
• PCYC Code of Conduct Refresher
• PCYC Child and Youth Risk Management
• PCYC Individual Healthy and Safety Commitment
• PCYC Child Protection

Achievements

• 1 x Pan Pacific 2nd Place Open Weight Division (NoGi) 2025
• 1 x Pan Pacific 3rd Place Weight Division (NoGi) 2025
• 1x ACT State Champion – Medium Heavy (Gi) 2025
• 1x ACT State Champion – Medium Heavy (NoGi) 2025
• 1 x Victoria State 3rd Place – Middle Weight (Gi) 2025
• 1 x Australian National Champion M3 (NoGi) 2024
• 1 x Pan Pacific Champion M3 (NoGi) 2024
• 1 x QLD State 3rd Place (Gi) 2022
• 1 x QLD State 2nd Place (NoGi) 2022
• 1 x Victoria State 2nd Place (Gi) 2022
• 1 x Victoria State 2nd Place Open Weight Division (No-Gi) 2022
• 1 x Victoria State Champion (No-Gi) 2022
• 1 x Australian National Champion (No-Gi) 2022
• 1 x Australian National 2nd Place (Gi) 2022
• 1 x ABJJC Super Fight Champion Gold Coast (Gi) 2021
• 1 x QLD State Champion (Gi) 2021
• 1 x QLD State Champion (NoGi) 2021
• 1 x QLD Bjj Circuit Open Weight Master Champion (Gi) 2021
• 1 x QLD Bjj Circuit Light Weight Master 2nd Place (Gi) 2021
• 1 x BarraFit Games Oceania Champion 2018
• 2 x Abu Dabhi Pro 2nd Place (Gi) 2018
• 2 x NSW States Championship 2nd Place Gi (2016)
• 2 x QLD States Championship 2nd Place
• 1 x Pan Pacific 2nd Place (NoGi) 2015

Professor · Black Belt

Kaue Macruz

Professor Kaue is a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, boasting eleven years of dedicated training in the discipline. Alongside his extensive experience on the mats, he holds a diploma in sports coaching, showcasing his commitment to honoring his craft.

His teaching prowess shines brightly as he effortlessly imparts knowledge on jiu-jitsu techniques, breathing methods, and flexibility exercises. More than just an instructor, Professor Kaue embodies the principles he teaches, leading by example with his dedication to a healthy lifestyle.

A true competitor at heart, Professor Kaue's passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu serves as a beacon of inspiration for all students at Virtue. His unwavering enthusiasm for the sport fuels motivation within the academy, fostering a community united by their love for martial arts.