# API - Ascension Athletics > Bristol, United States ## Overview **Name:** API - Ascension Athletics **Description:** Ascension Athletics MMA & BJJ is a martial arts school in Bristol, Connecticut, offering comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and striking arts. Founded in 2016 by Jeff Haddad, the academy has become a fundamental part of the Bristol community through its uplifting environment and commitment to student success. The school welcomes everyone from beginner hobbyists to competitive martial artists, providing programs for all ages starting from 5 years old. The academy's philosophy centers on supporting students in achieving their dreams through promoting healthy habits in competition and life. Ascension offers a unique scholarship program funded by local businesses to ensure martial arts training is accessible to families in need. The supportive atmosphere is built on respect, inclusivity, and perseverance, where students of all skill levels train together in an anti-ego environment focused on personal growth. Head instructor and owner Jeff Haddad brings exceptional credentials to the academy. A former pediatric and occupational therapist, his background gives him unique expertise in working with various learning styles and physical abilities. As a 1st degree BJJ black belt, 2-time IBJJF World Champion (Purple M1 and Black M2), #1 IBJJF World Ranked M2 Black Belt (2023), and undefeated 5-0 professional MMA fighter (Reality Fighting Bantamweight Champion), Jeff combines world-class competition experience with compassionate instruction. The academy is supported by a skilled team of instructors including Jack Stapleton, Casey Norton, Rob Cole, Glenn Pierce, James Comerford, Kat Torres, Rob Grillo, and Dan Wilcox. **Status:** Active ## Contact Information **Address:** 99 Farmington Ave, Bristol, Connecticut 06010, USA Bristol, IA 06010, United States **Phone:** (860) 306-1726 **Email:** ascensionathleticsct@gmail.com **Website:** https://www.ascensionathleticsct.com **Social Media:** - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ascensionathleticsct/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ascension-Athletics/61550323732965/ ## Hours of Operation - Monday: 6:30 AM - 8:55 PM - Tuesday: 6:30 AM - 8:55 PM - Wednesday: 6:30 AM - 8:55 PM - Thursday: 6:30 AM - 8:30 PM - Friday: 4:15 PM - 7:15 PM - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:55 AM - Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:55 AM ## Pricing ## Facilities & Amenities Kickboxing ## Instructors ### Jeff Haddad - Black **Role:** Head Instructor **Bio:** Former pediatric and occupational therapist with unique expertise in working with physical and behavioral disabilities. Started martial arts training in 1999 and teaching in 2006. Coached high school wrestling teams to multiple championships before opening Ascension Athletics in 2016. ### Casey Norton **Role:** Instructor ### Dan Wilcox **Role:** Instructor ### Glenn Pierce **Role:** Instructor ### Jack Stapleton **Role:** Instructor ### James Comerford **Role:** Instructor ### Kat Torres **Role:** Instructor ### Rob Cole **Role:** Instructor ### Rob Grillo **Role:** Instructor ## Programs ### Minis BJJ **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** kids **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program for young children ages 5-7 **Classes:** ### Juniors BJJ **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** kids **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program for children ages 8-12 **Classes:** ### Teens BJJ **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** kids **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program for teenagers ages 13-14 ### Adult/Teen BJJ - Beginner **Skill Level:** Beginner **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Beginner Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for adults and older teens (15+) **Classes:** ### Adult/Teen BJJ - All Levels **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for all skill levels (15+) **Classes:** ### Adult/Teen BJJ - Advanced **Skill Level:** Advanced **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Advanced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for experienced practitioners (15+) **Classes:** ### No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** all_ages **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** Grappling without the gi, focusing on wrestling and submission techniques **Classes:** ### MMA **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** all_ages **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** Mixed Martial Arts combining striking, grappling, and wrestling **Classes:** ### Striking **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** all_ages **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** Striking program combining kickboxing, boxing, and Muay Thai techniques **Classes:** ### Competition Class **Skill Level:** Advanced **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** Advanced competition-focused training **Classes:** ### Open Mat **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** all_ages **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** Open mat for sparring and technique practice **Classes:** --- **Last Updated:** March 01, 2026 **Data Source:** BJJ.Space (https://bjj.space/gyms/united-states/iowa/bristol/api-ascension-athletics)