KUGTAR MMA

KUGTAR MMA offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Tang Soo Do, Kids MMA, Muay Thai, Eskrima, and competition training. Weekly classes are listed Monday through Friday, and Eskrima is listed for Friday 6:30-7:30 PM. New students begin through KUGTAR's observation and evaluation process.

Programs

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — Little Dragons: 4-8; Big Dragons: 8-15; Adult Beginning BJJ: 16+ · Weekly classes; specific times listed on the schedule
• Tang Soo Do — Little Dragons: 4-8; Big Dragons: 8-15 · Weekly classes; specific times listed on the schedule
• Kids MMA — 8-15 · Weekly classes; specific times listed on the schedule
• Muay Thai — 16+ · Weekly classes; specific times listed on the schedule
• Eskrima — 12 and up · Friday 6:30-7:30 PM
• Competition Training — Eligible current students · Competition classes listed on the weekly schedule · Readiness-based; for students preparing to represent KUGTAR in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Tang Soo Do competition

At a glance

• Ages: 4–18 years old
• General schedule: Current weekly classes are listed for Monday through Friday. New students begin through KUGTAR's observation and evaluation process.

About the provider

KUGTAR began in Salinas in 1995 and has been family-owned since 1995. Master Vicente Vanderlipe and Cecilia Vanderlipe are listed as the founders and owners, and Cecilia Vanderlipe is listed as Owner and Youth Program Director. The mission statement says: "Technique. Character. Community. Training with purpose." It also says the youth programs build courage, confidence, self-defense, anti-bullying skills, listening, respect, and hard work. Master Vicente Vanderlipe earned his first Tang Soo Do black belt in 1985 and won a championship title in full-contact kickboxing in 1996. Cecilia Vanderlipe holds black belts in Tang Soo Do and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Students are expected to listen, carry themselves well, and value others. New families normally observe first to understand the dojo and training environment. Instructors assess readiness, attitude, and placement. Admission is determined by the owners/instructors.

Last updated October 10, 2026.