Welcome to ALIBI BJJ ACADEMY in Woking 

Meet our team

EDYTA OPALKA

WMA Alibi BJJ Academy Founder 

Head Instuctor (BJJ BLACK BELT)

I began my Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) journey in 2012, and it quickly became a cornerstone of my life, particularly during some of my most challenging personal moments. Training on the mats didn’t just help me face my struggles—it gave me the strength to grow through them. They say life doesn’t get easier; we simply get stronger, and I’ve found that to be profoundly true. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to compete in numerous tournaments across the UK and internationally, including the World Championships, achieving victories in prestigious events like the British Open and British Nationals. Today, I am honored to hold a black belt (one degree) under Martin Hollis.

Coaching naturally became an extension of my journey when I discovered that helping others grow inspired my own personal and professional growth. Together, we cultivate a stronger, more resilient community. For me, teaching and learning are inseparable; I will always see myself as a student first. What I love most about coaching is watching people transform—not just as athletes but as individuals. It’s about planting seeds of growth, even if the results take time to blossom.

Outside of BJJ, I am deeply passionate about neuroscience and psychology. Understanding how the mind shapes our emotions and behaviors has given me a richer perspective on life and martial arts. Another vital aspect of my journey is the emphasis BJJ places on physical and mental well-being. Training consistently demands discipline, resilience, and a proactive approach to health. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of proper nutrition, recovery, and mindfulness practices to balance the intense demands of the sport. Beyond the physical benefits, BJJ has taught me to manage stress, stay present, and develop a mindset that thrives under pressure. These lessons have not only improved my performance on the mats but have also empowered me to tackle life’s challenges with greater composure and confidence.

To new students, my advice is simple: don’t fear failure. Laugh at your mistakes, be kind to yourself, and show compassion to others. Embracing your imperfections isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s the key to clarity and self-acceptance. At its heart, the true reward of BJJ isn’t found in medals or accolades; it lies in the process of showing up, learning, and applying those lessons both on and off the mats. Over time, just like refining a technique, life begins to flow with greater ease and purpose.

💬 Favorite Quote:

"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." – Benjamin Franklin

 

 

 

RICHARD BRIGGS

BJJ INSTRUCTOR 

(BJJ BLACK BELT)

I began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in 2013, during a transitional period in my life. After years of playing competitive rugby, I found myself looking for something that could challenge me both physically and mentally, without the toll that rugby had taken on my body. BJJ offered that balance—highly technical, endlessly challenging, and deeply humbling. I quickly found a new passion on the mats, two nights a week training quickly went to 4 due to how addictive it is.

From white belt to black belt, I committed fully to training and competing. I tested myself at every level, stepping into tournaments with the aim to win but always open to learning. Every match, win or lose, added to my understanding of the art and myself. The journey through the belts was not just about progression, but about persistence, humility, and growth.

Now, as a BJJ instructor and Year 9 Director of Learning at The John Fisher School, it’s incredibly rewarding to guide others along their own paths. Watching students develop their technique, confidence, and understanding of BJJ under my instruction is a privilege. Seeing them apply what we’ve worked on in real time—whether in training or competition—is a reminder of why I started this journey in the first place. Teaching has become one of the most fulfilling parts of my BJJ experience.

💬 Favourite quote :

"Where there is no struggle,there is no strength"

NISAR AHMED

BJJ AND WRESTLING INSTRUCTOR 

(BJJ BROWN BELT)

I've been passionate about martial arts since I was a teenager. Inspired by legends like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, I began my journey with karate in my hometown of Woking before exploring judo and wrestling. Although life and family commitments occasionally paused my training, my dedication never faded.

For over a decade now, I’ve focused on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, complementing it with judo and wrestling. I hold a brown belt and have been coaching since my early days, teaching Gi, No-Gi, judo, and wrestling classes — including running kids’ classes for many years.

My passion lies in helping others grow — especially young people in my community. My community work dates back decades, and in 1987, I was honoured to receive recognition from the Mayor of Woking for setting up the first youth club for the local Asian community and helping keep kids off the streets.

I’ve also dedicated years volunteering at Bisley Prison, working alongside chaplains to support inmates, particularly those from Asian communities. I was proud to be among the first to introduce Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and archery to my community, helping these sports flourish alongside wrestling, swimming, and horse riding — activities that hold cultural and religious importance in my faith.

In addition to grappling, I also have experience in fencing and am a qualified archery instructor. Today, I’m focused on growing as a grappling coach, driven by my love and passion for the art. I’m excited to share my knowledge and experiences with all who want to learn, grow, and build a stronger community through martial arts.

💬 Favourite quote :

"Progression to excellence only comes when it is tought in all areas of discipline ~Nisar Ahmed

CHARLY VIERU

NO-GI (GRAPPLING)

INSTRUCTOR 

(BJJ PURPLE BELT)

GUIDO SCALISE

BJJ ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR 

(BLUE BELT)

My Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey began in 2022, shortly after my son Luca started, and it was love at first roll! A few months later, I eagerly stepped into the role of assisting Edyta with the children’s classes, and it’s been a joy to see my son Nico and my daughter Milena join the fun on the mats too. For me, assisting with the kids' sessions is incredibly rewarding. I love helping them grasp the details of BJJ and seeing that moment of understanding when they successfully apply a technique. My experience as a parent helps me connect with them, and in turn, guiding them has deepened my own understanding of BJJ, which is invaluable for my own progression. I firmly believe BJJ offers children so much more than just physical skill; it builds resilience, self-control, camaraderie, and confidence – attitudes and skills transferable to all areas of life. It's wonderful to see these qualities blossom in our young students within our gym's fantastic, family-like community spirit. I was promoted to blue belt in December 2024. I'm committed to my own learning and aspire to one day achieve a black belt. I’m excited to continue sharing my passion and supporting our youngest members as they grow! Outside of BJJ, I’m a software engineer, a science nerd, an amateur musician, and a sports fan!.

 

💬 Favourite quote :

"A mind is like a parachute.It doesn't work if it is no open" ~Frank Zappa

About Us

At our Academy we are more than just martial arts .

We are a community built on trust, respect, and support. Our goal is to empower individuals of all ages and sizes on their journey through BJJ  training. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced practitioner, we welcome you to join our family.

Our instructors are DBS checked, First Aid certified, and trained in Safeguarding—because your safety and trust matter as much as your progress.

Our Mission

Our mission is to help individuals achieve their goals through great-quality training. We have successfully helped people of all ages reach their potential, whether it's gaining confidence, learning self-defence, or competing .Our focus is on personal growth, both physically and mentally.

Why Choose Us?

What sets us apart is our dedication to fostering a sense of community and support. We believe that through mutual respect and trust, our students can thrive and excel in their martial arts journey. Our instructors are highly experienced and passionate about what they do, ensuring that each student receives the attention and guidance they need to succeed.

Join Our Community

Contact us today to book a trial class and experience the sense of camaraderie and empowerment that our community has to offer.

Start Your Martial Arts Journey Today

Join our community of passionate martial artists and experience the benefits of training with us.