Damian Hirtz
Damian Hirtz has over 15 years of training and teaching experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His training began in 1997 by traveling to Los Angeles to train at Rickson Gracie’s Pico Boulevard academy. He received his BJJ black belt under his friend and world class MMA trainer, David Camarillo. Damian is the head instructor of Alliance Minnesota under the guidance of Fabio Gurgel.
Teaching
Damian’s attention to detail and dedication to the technique of jiu-jitsu led to his being asked to substitute for his instructor very early in his training, while still at the Blue Belt level. As time went on he was asked to assume a greater role in the development of his fellow students and began teaching his own regular classes. Over the years he was lucky enough to work with students from all walks of life, helping them reach their full potential in jiu-jitsu. His students have ranged from doctors, lawyers, housewives, office workers, students, and children to police officers, military personal and professional competitors.
Because of his dedication to the technical aspects of jiu-jitsu, his role evolved into additionally teaching the advanced classes and working with competitors and professional fighters on their preparation for events.
His role as a training partner and corner man to many professional Mixed Martial Arts fighters continues to this day. He continues to be a reference for some of the greatest competitors in the world competing on the highest levels possible in events like The Ultimate Fighting Championship, EliteXC, WEC, and Pride FC.
Accomplishments/Certifications
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
- BA University of St. Thomas – St. Paul, MN
- CrossFit Certified Instructor
- CrossFit Olympic Weightlifting Certified Instructor
- CrossFit Kids Certified Instructor
- Owner/Head Instructor: Alliance Jiu-Jitsu MN and CrossFitMN – Minneapolis, MN.
Competition
- 4x Greater Midwest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu / Submission Wrestling Champion
- 2000 Rickson Gracie International: Silver Medalist
- 2001 Machado World Grappling Games: Bronze Medalist
- 2003 Las Vegas Open: Bronze Medalist
- 2004 Midwest Championships Brown/Black Belt: Silver Medalist
- 2005 CBJJ Pan American of Jiu-Jitsu: Silver Medalist
- 2006 Greater Midwest Submission Hunt: Brown/Black Belt Champion
- 2006 NAGA Chicago: Black Belt Champion
- Multiple state and local championships
Tim Blackstone, Youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt
- US Army Soldier 1999-2006
- Army Combatives Trained
- CrossFit Level 1 Certified Instructor
- Currently pursuing a Pre Med degree at Augsburg College
