MEET OUR TEAM
John King
Founder
Chief Executive Officer
Head Coach
John is the Founder, Chief Executive Officer, and Head Coach at RGJJ Academy in Shakopee, MN. He has devoted his career to the art of Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu and has been a certified RGJJ Network Gym Affiliate since 2021. John holds certifications as both an RGJJ 360 Level 1 and Level 2 instructor, as well as being a G.R.A.C.I.E. certified instructor for law enforcement. In 2023, he proudly earned his prestigious black belt from Royce Gracie, known as the world’s hardest black belt test, which is exclusive to fewer than 200 individuals worldwide. This achievement marks a significant milestone in his martial arts journey, which began in 2010.
With over a decade of teaching experience as a Jiu Jitsu coach, John is passionate about sharing his knowledge with students of all ages and abilities. He has extensive knowledge of the 753 code and the Gracie diet, which he incorporates into his teachings. As an alumnus of Dakota County Technical College, he is also certified in BLS CPR for adults, children, and infants, placing a strong emphasis on health and safety in every aspect of training.
John fosters a positive and inspiring atmosphere at the academy, encouraging students to develop their skills, confidence, and discipline. Outside of the academy, John enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife, Winona, and their three children: Shali, John Jr., and Tate. His hobbies include physical fitness and riding motorcycles with his family. Come meet John at RGJJ Academy Shakopee—where an exciting journey in martial arts awaits!
Winona Wabasha
Co-Founder
Director of Operations
Assistant Coach
Winona is the Co-Founder of RGJJ Academy in Shakopee, MN, where she serves as the Director of Operations and Assistant Coach. At the academy, she empowers individuals to grow through the art of Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu and the RGJJ 360 curriculum. In 2022, Winona earned her Purple Belt from Royce Gracie. She plays a key role in running the Junior Warriors program and specializes in self-defense for women and children, fostering a welcoming environment that builds confidence and essential skills.
In addition to her work at the academy, Winona is a Registered Dental Hygienist and a former Emergency Medical Responder, emphasizing health and safety in all her endeavors. She is certified in BLS for the Healthcare Provider and has a diverse background that includes serving as a Teacher’s Aide at Playworks Childcare Center in Prior Lake, MN. In her free time she is an endurance runner, enjoys lifting weights, and occasionally likes to ride motorcycles with her family. Together with her husband John are proud parents to their three children, Shali, John Jr., and Tate.
With her friendly approach and passion for Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Winona inspires students of all ages to reach their potential and form lasting connections. Come meet Winona at RGJJ Academy; an exciting journey awaits!