Program Overview
What is Zen Youth Jiu Jitsu?
Zen Youth Jiu Jitsu is a dynamic martial arts program designed to help kids build confidence, discipline, and essential self-defense skills in a fun, safe, and supportive environment. Our mission goes beyond teaching techniques — we focus on helping kids grow both on and off the mat, developing the tools they need to navigate life with resilience and respect.
More Than Just a Martial Art
Zen Jiu Jitsu Instructors
Jiu Jitsu Professor and Head Instructor
Mark Lim
Outside of his career as an IT Executive, Mark Lim is an experienced Jiu-Jitsu instructor who has accumulated years of experience in training, teaching, and competing since 2009. Mark practices a strategic style of Jiu-Jitsu focused on foundational techniques, longevity, and overall health. His instructional principles involve an ecological approach to learning, utilizing kinesthetic, positional, and resistance-based drilling techniques.
Mark earned his Blackbelt under Matheus Lutes of Royal Jiu Jitsu, a distinguished blackbelt from Marcelo Garcia's lineage. Mark has won a Master Worlds Silver Medal and multiple gold medal champion in various competitions, including IBJJF and Grappling Industries.
In addition to his Jiu-Jitsu career, Mark has held executive IT roles since 2011 and attributes much of his professional success to the principles learned in Jiu-Jitsu. While teaching both adults and youth since 2012, Mark blends his extensive martial arts knowledge and professional experience into his teaching, offering a comprehensive and insightful approach to Jiu-Jitsu.
Alex Vargas
Jiu Jitsu and Fitness Coach
Alex is a dedicated practitioner, coach, and mentor at Zen Jiu Jitsu & Wellness, bringing a wealth of experience in martial arts and fitness.
With over 20 years of combined Jiu Jitsu and Wrestling experience, including Division 1 Collegiate Wrestling at the University of Maryland, Alex brings a well-rounded approach to training.
Beyond the mats, Alex spent years as a licensed captain running his own boat charter business and operating a water sports camp for kids, giving him valuable experience in working with children, building confidence, and creating safe, structured learning environments.
Katerina Kallergis
Jiu Jitsu Professor
With over 15 years of training and nearly a decade of coaching experience, Professor Kat brings a thoughtful and logical perspective to the mat, grounded in a adaptive approach to learning. Coach Kat focuses on fostering skill acquisition through direct, experiential learning. Coach Kat's passion lies in guiding students to discover their own paths to mastery. She has a “Keep it fundamental!” attitude that is approachable for all levels.
Sierra Butler
Youth Jiu Jitsu Coach
After her hockey career ended, she turned to Jiu Jitsu as a new way to stay active. With years of nannying experience, she works great with kids and brings strong energy to our youth classes. As a student herself, she’s excited to learn alongside the kids and support them, knowing how tough and rewarding the sport can be.
Ben Ciampa
Jiu Jitsu Coach and Youth Instructor
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Ben began training Jiu Jitsu 2019 in Mesa, Arizona. A recent transplant to Long Island, he holds a purple belt and trains under Mark Lim. Ben’s teaching focuses on mastering the fundamental techniques and concepts of Jiu Jitsu. In addition to the physical benefit, Ben values the mental and character-building aspects of Jiu Jitsu, applying the principles of leverage, patience, and perseverance to navigate challenges in life, on and off the mat.