OUR INSTRUCTORS
JAKE HOWARTH - HEAD INSTRUCTOR
A former collegiate wrestler and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Professor Vitor Oliveira, Jacob Howarth brings over two decades of grappling experience to Roots Jiu Jitsu & Muay Thai. His coaching blends the discipline of wrestling with the technical precision of jiu-jitsu, emphasizing growth, humility, and strong fundamentals.
Outside the academy, Jacob is a full-time accountant who believes that the principles of martial arts — discipline, focus, and integrity — extend far beyond the mats. He and his wife Megan live in Hilliard, Ohio with their 2 corgis “Cowboy” & “Bebop.”
“Grappling has been the catalyst for my growth throughout life. The confidence that comes from consistent training — improving a little each day — naturally spills over into everything you do. The ability to face difficult challenges, stay composed under pressure, and embrace humility each time you ‘tap out’ all work together to build true character”
- Jacob Howarth
ACCOLADES:
2× IBJJF No-Gi World Medalist (2021, 2024)
2× IBJJF No-Gi Pan-American Medalist (2021, 2022)
1 x IBJJF Pan-American Medalist, Gi (2020)
Multiple-time IBJJF Open Champion
ADCC Chicago Open Champion (2024)
PGF Season 7 Team Champion (2024) – $100K Grand Prize
Main Character BJJ Team Champion (2024)
COREY MEEKS - HEAD INSTRUCTOR
A Westerville native, Corey began his journey in combat sports through wrestling and developed a passion for MMA and boxing during high school. While attending college in California he discovered Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2009.
After returning to Ohio, Corey began training full-time in 2010 and after seven months earned his first MMA win by submission in under a minute. From 2010 to 2016, he dedicated himself to MMA, eventually turning pro in 2014 while training and fighting out of Roufusport MMA Academy in Milwaukee, WI. under the late, world-renowned coach Duke Roufus.
While rehabbing from an injury, Corey was presented with an opportunity that would eventually lead to a career in software. He gradually shifted his focus back to training and competing in Jiu Jitsu under Professor Vitor Oliveira of GFTeam and Ronin Training Center, where he also served as an assistant instructor from 2018 to 2023.
For the past 13 years, Corey has dreamed of creating his own training facility – a place where both youth and adults can train hard, develop their skills, and challenge themselves while being part of a community that values hard work, learning, and self-improvement through martial arts.
ACCOLADES:
Former Professional Fighter
Awarded BJJ Black Belt under Vitor Oliveira (2022)
Pan Asian Champion (2019)
Relentless Invitational 69kg Champion (2019)
Arnold Sports Festival Champion (2018, 2019)
Awarded Kickboxing Purple Belt under Duke Roufus (2015)
Awarded Kentucky Bluegrass MMA Submission of the Year (2013)
Multiple-time IBJJF Open Medalist
CLASS SCHEDULE
LOCATION
95 Huber Village Blvd.
Westerville, OH 43081
FOUNDING
MEMBER
SPECIAL
Be one of the first 50 members to join before opening day and lock in a lifetime discount on your unlimited-level membership. Reserve your spot today for only $1 — You won’t be charged your first payment until we officially open for business.
As a founding member, your discounted rate stays in place even if you decide to pause your membership after the initial period — no surprises, no hidden fees. Only a minimum, 3-month commitment to begin transforming yourself on the mats.
Once they’re gone, they’re gone.
ONLY 50 FOUNDING MEMBER SPOTS AVAILABLE
OUR INSTRUCTORS
CLASS SCHEDULE
LOCATION