Codella Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy Instructors
Mike Codella
Mike Codella, a long time student, friend, and now Third Degree Black Belt under World Champion and legend Renzo Gracie, Mike teaches this cutting edge method of proven fighting/self defense, the way he practiced, and learned it from Renzo Gracie for so many years.
Mike Codella retired from the NYPD in 2003. With Renzo’s encouragement, Mike began teaching in 2004 and opened his own Academy in 2005.
Mike takes pride in passing on the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and MMA knowledge he has acquired, and hopes to impart that knowledge to his friends and students.
Santino Codella
Being the son of Professor Mike Codella, Santino was brought into the world of Brazilian JiuJItsu at a young age.
He was a well respected high school wrestler, and was the captain of his team in his senior year.
His true love was Brazilian JiuJitusu however, and he received his blue belt upon turning 16. He began teaching classes that same year, and would earn his Black Belt in 2018.
He is currently a 1st degree Black Belt, and is the lead instructor of our evening white belt/fundamentals class.
Paul Mascetta
Paul began his martial arts journey in the winter of 2013.
Under the tutelage of Professor Mike Codella, Paul was determined to earn his Black Belt.
With a never give up attitude and determination, Paul earned the coveted Black Belt in Dec 2023.
He credits hard work, and the camaraderie which the Academy is known for for ability in achieving this great accomplishment.
Paul has been an instructor for our children classes since 2014 where he has specialized in teaching the 4-12 year olds.
Paul is also an entrepreneur and successful direct response marketing specialist.
Paul has helped many well known online businesses grow due to his expertise in this field.
Husain Haider
Husain is healthcare professional/researcher. He's been training jiujitsu since 2016.
His entire emphasis when it comes to learning and training is applying the scientific method to jiujitsu.
He loves teaching because it enhances his understanding and forces him to be competent for his students.
Seeing them learn and succeed is immeasurably greater than any small personal achievement of his own.
Frank Concolino Jr.
Frank is a U.S. Navy Combat Veteran who served our country for 11 years.
Most of those years he served overseas in Europe , Asia and the Middle East (Operation Enduring Freedom).
Frank has been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since 2009 and is a 1st degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Blackbelt under Professor Mike Codella.
He has competed in 100's of tournaments in the United States and Brazil. (ADCC , IBJJF, NAGA , Goodfight , numerous "Super Fights" and RISE #1 (a professional invitational grappling tournament now held on UFC fight pass.)
Frank is one of the head coaches for the children's Jiu Jitsu program at Codella Academy and takes pride in sharing the Art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with the future of America.
Rick Wagner
In 2015, Rick stepped onto the mats for the first time, eager to learn the art of jiu-jitsu.
His commitment and discipline quickly paid off as he progressed through the ranks, mastering techniques and developing a deep understanding of the sport.n 2017, Rick took on a new role as a coach for children at the Codella Academy.
His experience as a practitioner allowed him to connect with young students, teaching them not only the techniques but also the values of respect, discipline, and perseverance.
Rick’s coaching style emphasizes both skill development and character building, ensuring that his students grow not only as athletes but also as responsible individuals.
For Rick, Codella Academy isn’t just a place to train—it’s a family.
He cherishes the camaraderie, the shared passion, and the sense of belonging.
Whether he’s coaching, competing, or simply rolling with fellow practitioners, Rick feels at home within the academy’s walls.
Zach Hunter
Zach Hunter is an experienced Brazilian JiuJitsu practitioner with many tournament wins and medals under his belt. He is also a proficient and seasoned Muay Thai fighter and instructor.
.
Ready To Join Us?