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Member Testimonials

Jeremy Knopow - Feb 2023

Professor Nick and his wife Mel have created the perfect environment for kids and adults alike to learn, grow, and most importantly have fun!

I've been to many gyms/ clubs / dojos over the years and Evolution is by far the best culture I've ever encountered. No big egos, everyone is encouraging and helpful, and it all starts with Nick and Mel.

I joined as a 46 yr. old adult and then shortly after our kids ages 6 and 10 wanted in on the fun.

Besides the fantastically welcoming culture at Evolution the quality of the instruction is also top notch. Many members have tried out multiple BJJ gyms around SE Wisconsin and ultimately landed at Evolution. It's easy to see why, and the results from the club at competitions for those who want to do that speak for themselves - Evolution almost always has the most medals per participant in any tournament they enter. Quite a feat when you consider we're up against much larger clubs from Chicago, Madison, Milwaukee, etc.

Evolution Jiu Jitsu is truly the perfect blend of culture and quality.

Ward Lyon - Dec 2022

One of the best decisions we made as a family was to join this gym. If your child has confidence issues or a hard time fitting in, this is the family environment that will help. Respect is given and earned and the classes are inclusive. Nobody is made to feel less for not knowing a lot, it’s a great teaching/learning experience the kids will take away for the rest of there lives. You will see changes in your child after just a couple classes and if they compete even more! Highly encourage anyone to try it out, you won’t regret it.

Alyssa Grossman - Dec 2022

Really great people who actually care about your child and their wellbeing! I would recommend them to anybody.

Kristen Montemurro - Feb 2022

We have become part of the Evolution family and couldn't be happier. We had come from a fantastic gym prior and this gym provides the same high level of training. The Professor is a fantastic instructor and will care about your children's well-being as humans. Our children have made a ton of friends and are thrilled to go to every class. They have become more disciplined and compete often. The family atmosphere and high level training will make a difference in your children's life! We couldn't be happier to be a part of this gym!

Mark Magnuson - Feb 2022

In the short time that my son has been going to Evolution, it has become apparent that we didn’t just join a gym. We joined a family that cares just as much for the inexperienced as the experienced. This level of care in their teaching is emulated by their Professor, to their coaches and all the way down to a crisp, clean white belt. The welcoming attitude of every person involved is unheard of in this day and age. Young and old, I would highly recommend enrolling with Evolution.

John Clauss - Mar 2021

I've been training here over 5 years and coaching about 4 years. Best decision I've made in my life and it keeps getting better. Very family like environment and everyone's humble! The instruction here is top notch!

Josh Pfleger - Jan 2021

Awesome group with exceptional instruction.

Samantha Sittler-Katterhagen - Feb 2020

We love this place, great with the kids.

Philip Wong - Sept 2019

Coach Nick and his students were extremely welcoming! Really clean gym with lots of mat space. Highly recommended to visit this gym if in the area. 5 stars.

Tyler Galvan - July 2018

I've been doing martial arts on and off since I was 19 and this place is fantastic. I've been a member here for almost 2 years now and the instruction is top notch and had a very family friendly atmosphere. Whether you want to compete or just get into shape and learn self defense, this is the place. Nick and Melanie Riggle have worked hard to make this gym what it is and it shows.

Craig Lockman - July 2018

Both my kids are enrolled here as it is a great place to learn Jiu Jitsu. Very much a family like atmosphere.

Brett Bohn - Feb 2017

If anyone has been wondering about the jiu jitsu journey or what it is all about I encourage you to give it a try. It WILL teach you more than just how to defend yourself in battles. You will develop discipline, patience, more self-esteem, and overall better life.

All the coaches and students at Burlington are top notch and each one brings in a different way to help you get where you want to be, not only on the mats but in life in general. Stop out and give it a try, and make some new friends along the way.

Robert Streske - Feb 2017

My little man loves it here. He has been there for 2 months now and has learned a lot. The instructors really give each child special attention. Great place! Great Instructors!

Angela Watson - Dec 2016

Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. I love the passion the instructors have and quality of care each student receives. After only 2 visits my daughter said,"Sign me up." This is the place to come to learn self defense against bullies, self-confidence, self-esteem, focus, and discipline that all apply not only for a child but flows over into adulthood.

Dennis Dyon - Oct 2015

Great coaches great people if you're interested in jujitsu I would highly recommend going to veneration BJJ in Burlington.

Erik Litviak - Sep 2015

Veneration BJJ is a great addition to our community. Coach Nick, and Meliane are as good as they come. If you are looking for a program for your kids or wanting to get into shape yourself I would highly recommend stopping in and speaking with them. Perfect for anti bullying , self defense and a all around great family atmosphere. My son Mak has been in it for almost a year and he loves it!

Amber Itzenhuiser - Mar 2015

So proud of what BJJ has taught my children! Coach Nick Riggle is amazing, and my 5 year old son looks up to him as if he were a king! If I had to chose one person for him to look up to as he does it would be Military, and family man Nick Riggle! Thank you Melanie Riggle and Nick Riggle for the amazing program you brought to Burlington! :)

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