Welcome to ALIBI BJJ ACADEMY in Woking 

Meet our team

EDYTA OPALKA

Alibi BJJ Academy Founder 

Head Instuctor (Black Belt)

I started training BJJ in 2012, and it quickly became a transformative force in my life, especially as I navigated numerous personal battles. The journey on the mats became a path to confronting my struggles and learning to overcome them. I've competed and won many tournaments both in the UK and internationally, and I've also had the privilege of taking part in the World Championships. I'm currently a black belt (one degree) under Martin Hollis. I began coaching because I realized that by helping others, I was helping myself — and together we add value to the community. For me, teaching and learning are inseparable; and so I'am always a lifelong student. What I love most about coaching is witnessing the incredible transformation in others – not just as athletes, but as individuals -It means planting seeds, even when others don't see the garden yet.

Beyond the mats, my curiosity extends to the fascinating realms of neuroscience and psychology in general. This pursuit of understanding how the mind works, from its complexities to its impact on our actions and emotions, deeply enriches my perspective, both in life and in my approach to BJJ. My advice to new students is simple yet powerful: don’t be afraid to fail, have fun with your mistakes, and be kind to yourself and others. Embracing your imperfections isn't a weakness: it's the gateway to mental clarity and true self-acceptance. The real value of training isn’t just in medals but in showing up consistently, learning deeply, and translating those lessons in life—just like making a technique second nature.

💬 Favourite 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

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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.