BJJ in Schuylkill Haven

Anthracite Combat Club

Anthracite Combat Club was founded in 1993 by Jeff Walcott in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania. The club's origins trace back to when Jeff began studying under a top Gracie Jiu-Jitsu instructor in Philadelphia. After receiving a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Jeff brought his training home to Schuylkill County, starting with small groups of close friends and gradually expanding into a formal academy. The club offers high-quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction certified by both the IBJJF and JJGF. Training emphasizes a systematic progression of techniques combined with proper repetitions and conditioning. The academy has built a strong competition pedigree, with team members consistently placing in the top three positions at tournaments. In 2004, the team expanded into mixed martial arts competition, achieving notable success in the cage. Today, Anthracite Combat Club serves over 60 members with programs for ages 5 through adult, including specialized classes for kids, teens, and women's self-defense. Head instructor Jeff Walcott holds a 1st degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and brings decades of experience since beginning his training in 1993. He is joined by Matt Melusky, a 2nd degree black belt in BJJ and brown belt in Judo. The academy is also supported by co-owner Lisa Walcott and club manager Kristin Polston. The team continues to travel and train with top-level instructors to bring the latest techniques and approaches back to their students in Schuylkill Haven.