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Preserving Our Legacy while Empowering Our Community

Community Heroes

At Legacy BJJ Omaha, we believe the selfless dedication of community heroes sets an inspiring example for the next generation of martial artists, and we take pride in giving back to those who serve our community.  Embracing the values of service and individual achievement for the benefit of others is the essence of this program, and we hope to instill these same principles in all of our students. 

Our qualified Community Heroes—active duty and retired police officers, firefighters, and military service members—are welcome to attend free weekly training sessions at our academy. These members-only sessions address specific challenges faced by our Community Heroes in a supportive and understanding environment.

Simply sign a waiver, register as a member of the Legacy Community Heroes program, and you’re ready to start training with us at no cost. As part of this program, we will request a $5.00 monthly gift to be given to the charity that you and the rest of the team select. This is our way of saying thank you for your service and your unwavering commitment to making our community a better place.

If you’re a Community Hero, please join us. We would be honored to have you as a part of the Legacy BJJ family.

Partnerships

Legacy BJJ’s Corporate Partnerships Program showcases our commitment to empower our community by offering tailored martial arts experiences that boost employee health and teamwork. With discounted programs and partnerships, we aim to enhance physical and mental well-being while fostering local connections. Join us in promoting a healthier, more cohesive community.

Community Outreach

Legacy BJJ Omaha is committed to giving back. As a dedication to our community, we will donate 100% of all proceeds raised for community improvement to a charity chosen by our members.

Legacy Stories

Discover the heartbeat of Legacy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on our Legacy Stories page!

Dive into inspiring stories of triumph as we celebrate the incredible success of our dedicated students. These stories reflect not just victories on the mats but also the relentless spirit that defines our community. Each story shines a spotlight on personal growth, showcasing how our students have faced and conquered life’s challenges, both inside and outside the gym. Whether it’s overcoming personal obstacles or achieving new heights in Jiu-Jitsu, our blog serves as a testament to resilience and strength.

Join us to explore these motivational journeys and find your own source of inspiration within our Legacy family.

Together, we rise!

Legacy Stories

Affiliated Schools

Team Rodrigo Vaghi Headquarters​

Rodrigo Vaghi is a 6th-degree black belt under the legendary Rickson Gracie. When he arrived in the U.S. to represent Gracie BJJ, he formed his own school currently in Ellisville, Mo. Team Vaghi has been the leader in BJJ in the Midwest.

His accomplishments in the competitive aspect of BJJ speak for themselves. What really makes Rodrigo special is his teaching excellence and what he has accomplished with the teams he has built.

TeamVaghi.com
Team Rodrigo Vagi Facebook Page

Dojo Omaha

Dojo Omaha is led by Dan Clark. He instructs the Taijutsu classes. Taijutsu is a MMA system. Dojo Omaha is also the home of Axios BJJ A.KA. the Blackfish. The Blackfish are led by John Hansen. John is a second degree black belt under Rodrigo Vaghi. John is assisted by Vaghi black belts Kristi and Charles Russell (both Charles and Kristi are among the most active black belt competitors in the area), Lane Greis, Vito Agosta, B.J. Donahoe, and Ross Clerk.

Legacy BJJ would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dojo Omaha. Dojo Omaha has helped us through a rough time by providing a home for the homeless.

dojoomaha.com
Dojo Omaha Facebook Page

Scott Morton Brazilizn Jiu-Jitsu​

Scott Morton Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is run by Scott Morton. He is a Rodrigo Vaghi black belt. He has been very successful as a BJJ competitor and coach, as well as a MMA coach. He works out of Ralston, NE.

Scott Morton Brazilizn Jiu-Jitsu​ Facebook Page

Saint Charles Mixed Martial Arts And Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ​

Mike Rogers is the owner and head coach at St. Charles MMA/BJJ and a black belt under Rodrigo Vaghi. He trains out of St. Louis, MO.

scmma.co
SCMMA ​Facebook Page

Taylor Made BJJ​

Tracy Taylor is a Rodrigo Vaghi second-degree black belt. He teaches in Maryland Heights, MO.

Taylor Made BJJ ​Facebook Page

Origin Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu​​

Jesse Reine is the owner of Origin Brazilian Jiu–Jitsu. He is a Rodrigo Vaghi black belt teaching out of Rice Lake, WI.

originmartialarts.net
Origin Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu​​ ​Facebook Page

North Broadway Jiu-Jitsu

Brian Guidry leads North Broadway Jiu-Jitsu and is a black belt under Rodrigo Vaghi. He trains out of St. Louis, MO.

guidrytraining.com
North Broadway Jiu-Jitsu ​Facebook Page

Pedigo Submission Fighting

Pedigo Submission Fighting is run by Heath Pedigo. He is a Rodrigo Vaghi black belt. He works out of Mt. Vernon, IL.

daisyfreshusa.com
Pedigo Submission Fighting ​Facebook Page

Impact Martial Arts

Impact Martial Arts is led by Rodrigo Vaghi blackbelt Bill Kreig. He works out of Oshkosh, WI.

impactmartialartswi.com
Impact Martial Arts ​Facebook Page

Fortitude Martial Arts

Fortitude Krav Maga is headed by Rodrigo Vaghi blackbelt Bill Kreg. He works out of Neenah, WI.

fortitudekravmaga.com
Fortitude Martial Arts ​Facebook Page

Flashback Martial Arts

Flashback Martial Arts is headed by Rodrigo Vaghi blackbelt Jesse Rueger. He works out of Appleton, WI.

flashbackmartialarts.com
Flashback Martial Arts ​Facebook Page

Ronin May Thai and BJJ

Ronin Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is headed by Rodrigo Vaghi brown belt Charlie Brown. He works out of Little Chute, WI.

roninmuaythai.com
Ronin May Thai and BJJ ​Facebook Page

Savage Citizen

Savage Citizens are everyday people, people like yourself, who make the world a better place every day but also have something inside them that needs to be let out. We are a community-focused team working to help each other get better every day.

savagecitizenbjj.com

Andrew W

Amazing place to train for both adults and kids! My kids and myself have loved learning with Ed, Matt, and the team at Legacy BJJ.

So many youth sports today are surrounded by over competitive tones and negativity, everything at Legacy is positive and builds these kids up. I ask my kids every night we are free if they want to attend BJJ and they always want to go. I see their skills and confidence building every time we are there.

This has been a great place for myself also. Being an adult and stepping out to learn a new sport/skill can be intimidating. From day one I never felt that way at this gym. The environment and welcoming nature of this place is awesome.

Thanks for all you do! We can’t wait to continue to improve with everyone at Legacy BJJ.

Ilan

The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts scene in Omaha, NE would not be what it is today without those that planted it’s seeds 30 years ago. We could not talk about Jiu-jitsu in Omaha without talking about Ed Shobe. Ed’s commitment to the growth of BJJ in Omaha is commendable. He has not only played a pivotal role in building and expanding the local Jiu-Jitsu community but has also been a source of inspiration for many practitioners myself included.

In the 90s, we could count on two hands the number of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu practitioners in the entire state.  We would have the same 6 to 10 friends, all white belts under the tutelage of Rodrigo Vaghi in St. Louis. We would meet at Dr. William Steiner’s dojo or even at his house.

Under Ed’s guidance and informal leadership, we not only developed technical skills but also gained a deeper appreciation for the philosophy and wisdom behind Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and life. Ed showed us the importance of discipline, respect, heart, and sportsmanship in Jiu-Jitsu. He instilled these values in everyone who joined. He created an atmosphere where camaraderie thrived and everyone felt motivated to excel.

I am grateful for the knowledge and values he has imparted on me during my BJJ journey. The impact on the community is still evident 30 years later. We are champions on the mats and off the mats. We carry a part of Ed within our success in life and in our BJJ journey.

Claudia R

Thank you for allowing me to become mentally stronger. Why Jiu-Jitsu is for me? Several years ago, I was sitting on the couch watching television. My wife said I do not want you to be a couch potato. What are you going to do once you retire from the military? I was inching up to about 245 pounds. I was the heaviest I have been in my life.

At that time, I did not have anything to say. However, her comment did bug me and she was right I have been trying to lose weight for several decades. Now that I have been training for over seven years, I have been able to keep off twenty or more pounds. I credit the weight loss to my new way of life with Jiu-Jitsu. I also believed keeping a warrior spirit. I am truly thankful to have begun Jiu-Jitsu training in my 50’s.

Now being a young 58-year-old: (With the help of Professor Ed Shobe for past seven years) I have been able to remain in good physical shape, make friends and became mentally stronger for the rest of my life. Professor Ed is extremely dedicated and a selfless servant to every practitioner. His leadership and his training are excellent for any older practitioner and young alike.

Wesley

Since the very day I first stepped on the mat, Ed Shobe and Matt Lipold have influenced both me and my son in so many ways. They have helped us grow in the areas of self-respect, selflessness, and respect for others. This all being done through the art of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

Aderso

It’s truly an honor to express the profound impact Ed Shobe has had on my life and Jiu-Jitsu journey. He not only invited me but also wholeheartedly guided me through my initial years in Jiu-Jitsu. Without his influence, Jiu-Jitsu wouldn’t have become an integral part of my life. I am profoundly thankful for his support as it has truly shaped my journey in ways words cannot fully express.

Beyond his technical expertise and effective coaching, Ed has cultivated a community in the Midwest where every practitioner feels like family.
Ed’s approach goes beyond technique mastery, it’s a holistic experience. His caring demeanor creates an environment where individuals not only learn Jiu-Jitsu but also discover their resilience and life potential.
In every training session, Ed’s dedication shines. His encouragement reaches beyond the dojo inspiring personal growth in all aspects of life. What sets Ed apart is not just his expertise but the authenticity of his friendship. His genuine connections within the Omaha martial arts community have turned training sessions into unforgettable experiences.
Being part of Ed Shobe’s Jiu-Jitsu community is more than learning a martial art, it’s a transformative journey guided by a coach who genuinely cares. I am grateful for the inspiration, camaraderie, and continuous growth under Ed’s guidance.

Mike

Thank you for the memories, blood sweat and tears from the mat! The motivation you gave me to succeed, personally and professionally was greater than you could ever imagine. You be challenged me, and you have always been there when I needed.

We first met at the Dundee Dell when you came in for some food. You had a Jiu-Jitsu sweatshirt on and that sparked our conversation. I came into the gym back when it was in Benson to take my first class. You were the most welcoming person I could ask for. YOU, took almost all my nervousness away. From that day on I have been hooked.

To know you’re opening up this gym is such a proud moment. You have gave more to the Jiu-Jitsu game than the Jiu-Jitsu game has given to you. You’re an inspiration to all who have the privilege to know you. And the ones who don’t see it… Smash ’em!! LOL

We started off as white belts. You had a vision and I have always been proud to follow you. Along the way I got lost but found my way back to my journey. Jiu-Jitsu has helped me grow in so many ways. Jiu-Jitsu has given me far more than I have given Jiu-Jitsu. This art has shown me heartbreak, laughs and so much more. BUT…. This art has given me some of the best memories, helped me grow as a person. Be a better man, husband, father and businessman. I have made life long friends and memories from Jiu-Jitsu.

Surround yourself with people who fight along side you!

Jill

I started training BJJ with Ed Shobe in 2003 after graduating from the police academy & realizing that I was not equipped to win physical confrontations. After watching me train stand-up with another instructor at the same gym, Ed asked me to train some BJJ with him because I was continuously being knocked down when the male fighters punched or kicked me. Through the years, I have stayed training with Ed because he presents easy breakdowns of fundamental movements which work in various situations. He doesn’t force a body to make moves work, instead he finds moves that work for your body and teaches you those variations. Matt Lippold has picked up this same style of teaching through his years of training with Ed. In addition, Matt is able to find your weaknesses and turn them into strengths. I have trained with them for 20 years & would recommend that any female interested in training start here because in addition to always being appropriate in their contact with females, they are willing to help females become strong fighters or just improve your self-defense.

Andy W

Whether you want to compete and win, want to train for fun and health, or looking to see your kids grow and develop, they have created a place where everyone is welcome and everyone is part of the team. Between their high-level of technique and love of seeing people just get better, Ed and Matt have created the perfect place for my kids and I to have fun, learn new things, and create great memories!

Community