OUR HENDO BJJ INSTRUCTORS
2314 Asheville Highway, Suite C, Hendersonville, NC, 28792
HEAD INSTRUCTOR
Larry Shealy
4th Degree Black Belt
Professor Larry Shealy is a dedicated martial artist and the lead instructor at Hendo BJJ. With a journey that began in November 1994 at a Rickson Gracie Seminar in Jacksonville, FL, Larry has devoted his life to mastering and teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). He is a 4th degree Rigan Machado black belt and a certified Rigan Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor.
Larry's teaching extends beyond the traditional scope of BJJ. He has shared his knowledge with the military, including the Marines, Army, and Navy, as well as local police and the S.W.A.T. team in Jacksonville Beach, FL. Alongside his wife Gail, he has trained hundreds of women in self-defense tactics, empowering them to take control of their safety and well-being.
After successfully running a BJJ Academy in Neptune Beach, FL since 2001, Larry moved with his family to Hendersonville, North Carolina in the fall of 2019. He is now the owner and main instructor at Hendo BJJ, which opened in December 2021.
Larry is a taskmaster on safety and proper jiu-jitsu technique, known for his passion for training and his love for his students. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing from Florida State University and an MBA from Jacksonville University in Management/Marketing. Despite a successful career in medical device sales and sales management, Larry's true passion lies in serving the Lord and helping others through the Art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
OUR CERTIFIED COACHES
At Hendo BJJ, our coaches are the heart of our academy. They are not just students of Jiu-Jitsu but passionate educators dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential.
Each of our coaches brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the mat. They are continuously learning and evolving as martial artists and teachers to provide the best possible training for our students. They understand that every student is unique, and they are adept at tailoring their instruction to meet individual needs and goals.
But beyond their technical ability, our coaches are known for their ability to inspire and motivate. They foster a positive and supportive training environment where students feel valued, challenged, and empowered. They are committed to helping students improve their BJJ skills and build confidence, discipline, and resilience that will serve them in all areas of life.
Tommy Auletti
Assistant Head Adult BJJ Coach
Tommy is a Marine Corps veteran who brings discipline, precision, and an exceptional attention to detail to Hendo BJJ, where he is Purple Belt in Jiu-Jitsu, on top of a Black Belt instructor in Military Combatives. NA father of two young students at the academy, he leads by example both on and off the mat.
One of the most dedicated students in our gym, Tommy’s commitment to mastering Jiu-Jitsu and helping others improve reflects his passion for the art. His military background, perseverance, and family-centered approach make him a valued part of our coaching team and community.
Andrew Thomas
Co-Assistant Head Kid’s BJJ Coach
Andrew Thomas brings passion, patience, and positivity to the kids’ program at Hendo BJJ. A Hendersonville local, Andrew lives here with his wife and child, and he is deeply rooted in family and community. Outside of jiu jitsu, he works professionally, supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Andrew is committed to giving back and loves being involved in volunteer work that strengthens and uplifts the community. On the mats, he channels that same energy into helping kids build confidence, discipline, and resilience through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. His approach blends encouragement with accountability, creating an environment where young students can thrive both on and off the mats.
Patrick Lang
Co-Assistant Head Kid’s BJJ Coach
Patrick Lang brings over 35 years of martial arts experience to the mat and holds a 6th-degree black belt in Okinawan Shorin Ryu Karate, and a 1st Degree Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As a lifelong martial artist, Patrick teaches with a focus on perseverance, honesty, strong character, self-control, and respect—core values that have guided his training and his life. A married father of two, he understands the importance of creating a positive, structured environment where students of all ages can grow in both confidence and character.
A proud Hendersonville local and business owner, Patrick is deeply connected to the community he serves. His warm yet disciplined teaching style helps students stay motivated while developing a strong foundation in martial arts. He’s passionate about instilling integrity, discipline, and humility in every student—values that extend far beyond the mat.
T.J. Erway
T.J. brings over 25 years of martial arts expertise to Hendo BJJ, holding a 4th degree black belt in Aikido and a brown belt in Japanese Jujutsu (similar to Judo). As a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, T.J. combines discipline and precision in his coaching.
Alongside his martial arts career, he owns a marketing education company and is the founder of a marketing software platform. A recent addition to the area since 2021, T.J. is a married father of four grown children. His extensive experience and diverse skills make him a cornerstone of our training team, dedicated to laying a strong foundation for our students in BJJ fundamentals.
PARENT HELPERS
At Hendo BJJ, we believe in the power of family and community. That's why we're proud to have a team of dedicated parent coaches who bring a unique perspective to our academy. These individuals are not just experienced martial artists; they're parents who understand the challenges and rewards of introducing children to the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. They are committed to creating a safe, fun, and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Our parent coaches are a testament to our belief that Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art; it's a family affair.