About Us

With over 17 years of experience, Fabricio Machado began his Jiu Jitsu career at age 15. Under Grand Master Julio Secco, one of the fathers of Jiu Jitsu. Secco is one of the 15 red belts in the world appointed by the International Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF).

Between Brazil and America, Fabricio has trained with Marcelo Garcia and Mario Reis and the Alliance team in New York City in 2015. In 2016, Fabricio moved to California. Where he joined the Checkmat Team under Lucas Leite in La Habra. In 2018, Fabricio was awarded his black belt under Lucas Leite.

Fabricio has trained with many world-renowned Jiu Jitsu athletes. Including Gabriel Almeida, Marcus Buchecha, Matheus Gabriel, The Luna Brothers, Marcelo Mafra, The Nagai Brothers, Luis Panza, and Leo Viera.

Owner of Checkmat Exeter Fabricio Machado has a long-standing history with Jiu Jitsu training. Dating back to 2005 in Brazil. When he was only 15 years old he trained under Grand Master Julio Secco. One of the fathers of Jiu Jitsu. Fabricio trained under many notable martial artists going forward such as Marcelo Garcia, Mario Reis and the Alliance team in New York City in 2015.

Shortly after New York, he joined the Checkmat Team in California and earned his black belt by 2018. Martial arts helped him transition to a more mature way of life beyond his own individuality. Fabricio was passionate about helping adults and kids stay fit and gain confidence in order to positively impact the community. Therefore he takes pride in being able to positively change the lives of his students in the first BJJ academy in Exeter, California.

I’m Joseph, one of the instructors at Checkmat Exeter. I began training in 2023 under Fabricio Machado and quickly fell in love with the culture and community of jiu-jitsu. I came in with no martial arts background, but I found that anyone can learn and grow with the right environment and support.

I stepped into a coaching role because both of my kids train here, and I wanted to be part of there journey. Starting something new can feel intimidating, but taking that first step is worth it. Whether your goal is confidence, fitness, or personal growth, we’re here to help you every step of the way. We hope to see you on the mats.

I am a native of Porterville, I went to college here close to home both at COS and CSU Fresno. After graduating with my Master’s in Communication I traveled around for a couple of years. Then I decided to try seasonal work in Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. While out traveling I made a goal to start doing jiujitsu as a way to make myself feel comfortable and confident. This art truly builds confidence in every student I have come across and I am so grateful for the opportunity to teach at Checkmat Exeter.

Austin Woods is a blue belt with three years of Jiu-Jitsu experience. He coaches both kids and adults and enjoys working with students at every stage of their journey. He has competed at multiple tournaments, including Fight 2 Win and Jiu-Jitsu Con, gaining valuable experience performing under pressure and testing his training in high-level environments.

For Austin, success in jiu-jitsu comes down to one thing: showing up. Growth follows consistency, and consistency builds confidence both on and off the mat.
Outside of jiu-jitsu, Austin works in graphic design, creating branding and visual content for businesses and organizations. He enjoys the creative process and the discipline required to continually improve his craft.

Jacob Clark is a purple belt under Mark and Kayti Quesada at Combat Base Visalia. Jacob began training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2022 and quickly developed a passion for personal growth and live competition. He has competed in both no-gi tournaments and mixed martial arts (MMA), gaining valuable experience that has shaped his practical and pressure based skills and mindset.

Hi, I’m Alicia! I love welcoming new members and helping everyone feel comfortable from day one. I had the privilege of meeting Coach Fabricio and Coach Sarah when my own little brother began to train here at Checkmat. Shortly after I began my own jiujitsu journey here as well, so I truly understand what it feels like to be new. I’m always happy to answer questions, help you get started, and make sure you feel right at home here at Checkmat Exeter!