Humble Beginnings
On the 24th of November 2022. Christopher Addison-Collis and Raphael Bardi; picked up the keys to a small commercial tenancy in Rosebery, Sydney, Australia
It was here, for the next 3 weeks, that endless hours of labour would be fulfilled to create the amazing space, everybody knows and loves: Academy 411.
The goal - a local family business that would provide exceptional instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling and Submission Grappling. Fostered in an aesthetic, clean, and professional environment, where all would feel part of the family.
Priming The Gym
Testing different motorcycle tyres & plywood for our spring loaded floor.
Chris adding the finishing touches to our white brick wall at reception.
Paul (Raph's Dad), commencing construction on the back wall mat frame.
Many hands made light work.
Construction of our Project
For weeks - family members helped us turn our dream space into reality.
258 motorcycle tyres were gathered from various motorcycle mechanics all across NSW.
150 square-metres of plywood was put together to create our spring loaded mat setup.
Many hours of painting white coats on the wall. Setting up software for members, learning to code and write websites. Building this amazing gym was a learning curve to all involved.
Our spring loaded mat was built for comfort and safety, and is the only real spring loaded mat in the eastern suburbs.
To new clients and visitors wanting to see our facilities. Feel free to click the link below:
Stages of Construction
Two layers of thick plywood laid in opposing directions to provide support and prevent breaks.
Silicon was used to waterproof and join the sheets of plywood together.
Buckets of "Bondcrete" were rolled into the plywood to seal and waterproof the floor. It was then given a few layers of waterproof outdoor white paint to seal it even further.
Mats were laid and butted in with the help of specialised tools (our legs kicking them). Then tightened with spacers towards the wall mats.
This ensures that no gaps are left between any mats that could potentially catch stray toes or fingers when people are training.
Modernising Jiu-Jitsu
With our mats in place, everything needed to fulfil 411's goals was ready.
Our philosophy is to provide the highest quality of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes. For beginners to seasoned competitors. Kids and Adults alike.
Our instructors provide real instruction that is technical and modern. This is achieved through constant growth in training and research off the mat.
We instill conceptual training as a core value and drive our students to achieve a higher level of Jiu-Jitsu.
The only Academy in Sydney's Eastern suburbs that can provide the newest instruction. With the sport dynamic and constantly changing, our conceptual approach to the sport provides our students with the foundations and basics of Jiu-Jitsu and a pathway to grow and learn new techniques.
Academy Four Eleven guarantees the highest quality of grappling instruction:
Kids Gi Classes have grown immensely since our inception date. All of our coaches have years of experience teaching kids of all ages. Each instructor holds certified child checks, and is qualified in first Aid and CPR.
Photoshoots have become a regular to show off some of our merchandise that is sold online or in-store!
One of our very first 6pm No-Gi classes. This is the most popular class every evening.
Jiu-Jitsu School Program that we run for local schools in and around Rosebery.
Kids get to try out techniques and play wrestling based games with the coaches.
Testimonials:
"Fantastic academy, great coaches that can handle anything you throw at them, very technical and patient but accepting and friendly environment. Cannot recommend enough! They go above and beyond to meet the needs of everyone that walks through the door. No student left behind 🙌 Brand new, pristine facilities with a very calm and relaxed atmosphere.
All the coaches are amazing with the kids (especially my two little devils) and welcome any and all with a smile! Highly highly recommend 🙏👌"
"Great gym with a welcoming social atmosphere and top level coaching. Chris, Raph & Nick are very passionate and technical when it comes to coaching and provide a broad range of modern grappling techniques. Chill culture combined with training designed to develop students at every level."
"I’ve had two one on one privates with Nick to dip my toe in and have become hooked. Owner/Instructor Raph has been so welcoming and places a huge emphasis on the students and their individual needs. I can’t recommend these guys enough. They are building something special. Thanks again Raph, Chris and Nick!"