Port Orchard's home for wrestling & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
At Delapena and Gerace Grappling, we provide a distinctive training experience tailored to all skill levels. Our mission is to cultivate well-rounded grapplers, proficient from standing positions to the ground. We embrace a hybrid training approach, integrating expertise from both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (bjj) and USA Wrestling to offer a uniquely blended instructional program.
Alejandro D. Delapena III
Alejandro D. Delapena III brings over two decades of distinguished service as a US Navy Deep Sea Diver to his role as a wrestling coach and mentor. His transition from a highly decorated military career to the world of wrestling showcases his unwavering dedication, discipline, and leadership.
Alejandro's wrestling journey began in 1986 in Benton City, WA, where he first engaged with the BC Little Guys program. His passion for wrestling evolved through mastery of Folkstyle, Freestyle, and Greco-Roman styles. This dedication led him to secure three Washington State High School Championships, laying the foundation for a remarkable wrestling career.
In collegiate wrestling, Alejandro represented North Idaho College and Oregon State University with notable success. His exceptional talent on the mat garnered the attention of the US Navy, where he joined the All-Navy wrestling team, competing in both Freestyle and Greco-Roman disciplines.
In 2011, Alejandro was appointed Head Coach of the All-Navy wrestling team, a role he held until 2023. His leadership significantly elevated the team's performance on national platforms, earning recognition from esteemed coach Rob Herman, a two-time Olympic Greco-Roman coach.
Currently, Alejandro serves as a coach at Central Kitsap High School, where he continues to shape the next generation of wrestlers with his extensive expertise. His coaching achievements are underscored by his Bronze Level Coach certification from the USA Wrestling Federation, and he is actively pursuing Silver and Gold Level certifications to further enhance his skills.
Alejandro's influence extends beyond local boundaries, having coached both adults and children, conducted clinics nationwide, and produced multiple National All-American wrestlers. His commitment to the sport is evident through his training at prestigious facilities such as the Olympic Training Center and his involvement in major events, including the Armed Forces Championship, Wrestling World Team Trials, and Olympic Team Trials.
With a career spanning over three decades, Alejandro D. Delapena III exemplifies the essence of wrestling—resilience, determination, and an enduring commitment. His impact on the wrestling community continues to inspire and uplift, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport he passionately advocates.
Thomas S. Gerace III
Thomas S. Gerace III is a seasoned professional retiring from the U.S. Navy after two decades of distinguished service as a Navy Deep Sea Diver. With a rich background in martial arts spanning over 17 years, Thomas has dedicated the past 12 years to mastering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ).
His BJJ journey began in May 2012 at Tidewater Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Chesapeake, VA, where he trained under Dan Gleaton and Johnathon Wertz. Thomas progressed through the ranks, competing in both gi and no-gi formats, and earned his brown belt before relocating to Washington State in 2019. During his time at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division in Keyport, Thomas continued his training at Hybrid Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Bremerton, WA, under the guidance of George Hissung. In November 2022, Thomas achieved his Black Belt in BJJ, a prestigious recognition validated by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation.
Thomas's expertise extends beyond personal achievement. He has been an influential coach, nurturing the growth of both youth and adult practitioners. His coaching career began in 2014, following the attainment of his blue belt, and has since evolved to include adult instruction and law enforcement defense tactics. His commitment to the sport and community was honored with the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal by the U.S. Navy.
In February 2024, Thomas earned certification as a State Law Enforcement Defense Tactics Instructor through the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission, further underscoring his dedication to enhancing public safety through BJJ training.
Driven by a passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and its transformative impact, Thomas envisions creating a gym that fosters community connection and personal development. His goal is to build a facility in Kitsap County that will serve as a hub for after-school programs, camps, and community events. Thomas's commitment to BJJ is rooted in his belief in its power to enhance self-confidence, physical well-being, and emotional resilience.
