Our Team
Clay Burwell - Head Coach & Owner
From Adversity to Mastery
My journey in martial arts began as a way to overcome adversity. After moving from the North Carolina to New Jersey as a child, I quickly became the target of bullying. Determined to build confidence and defend myself, I turned to boxing through a youth program at the Police Athletic League. Through countless hours of training under legendary coach Bob Van Syckle, I developed resilience, discipline, and a passion for combat sports that would shape my future.
Military Service & Professional Success
At 19, I joined the military and served with distinction in the 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper. The rigorous training, discipline, and mental fortitude I gained during my service became the foundation for everything I pursued afterward.
After completing my service, I moved to New York City to chase my dream of becoming a celebrity trainer. I succeeded, working with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Matt Damon, Drea De Matteo, and Anna Paquin. But even with that level of success, my passion for martial arts continued to grow.
During this time I boxed full time competitively out of one of the toughest gyms in the world- Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn New York under the tutelage of renowned coach Terry Southerland.
The Path to High Performance
My dedication led me to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where I discovered a deeper purpose beyond fitness and self-defense. Under the mentorship of Josh Griffiths of Clockwork Jiu-Jitsu, I earned my Black Belt, an achievement that required years of rigorous training, discipline, and perseverance. Working internationally as a professional bodyguard also pushed my skills to new heights, demanding composure and expertise in real-world, high-pressure situations.
Empowering You to Succeed
Today, as the owner and head coach of High Performance Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, I’m dedicated to helping my students unlock their full potential. Whether you’re looking to build strength, skill, and confidence, or a parent seeking a positive, disciplined environment for your child, I provide top-tier instruction designed to help you achieve your goals.
At High Performance BJJ, every student’s journey matters. From young kids developing coordination and respect to adults striving for personal excellence—I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Elizabeth Burwell - Personal Trainer & Co-owner
Elizabeth has been passionate about fitness and bio-mechanics for as long as she can remember. After graduating from Birmingham-Southern College with a BA in French and dance, Elizabeth moved to New York City where she spent over 10 years working as a professional dancer and personal trainer. Her unique training style is a result of her knowledge of dance, Pilates and heavy resistance training and has led to her services being sought out by Sandra Oh, Christina Ricci and Katie Cassidy, to name a few.
In addition to personal training, Elizabeth works as a Cardiac Nurse, graduating with a BSN from the University of South Carolina Upstate. She holds certifications and titles in the following: Registered Nurse - SC, National Association of Sports Medicine - CPT, Pre and Post Natal Fitness, Pilates, TRX, Kettlebells, Cancer Exercise Specialist, and CPR/AED.
Elizabeth specializes in training people with cardiac conditions, obesity, pre/peri and post menopausal women and back pain. She believes in empowering individuals to take control of their health through knowledge and movement, ensuring that every person is supported in their unique fitness journey.
Oscar Rosa - BJJ
Oscar began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2000 and currently holds the rank of blue belt.
Jamali Ford
Jamali started his Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2020 and currently holds the rank of blue belt.