The Team Third Heaven Martial Council is an international panel of experienced martial artists dedicated to preserving the integrity and legitimacy of martial arts lineages, systems, and belt rankings. Comprising seven respected members from diverse backgrounds, the Council serves as a governing body that acknowledges and authenticates rank promotions and the founding of martial arts systems across a variety of styles. Our mission is to uphold excellence, honor tradition, and provide a recognized platform for martial artists worldwide. As our global community continues to grow, we may expand the Council to include additional members who share our commitment to martial arts leadership and accountability.
Justin Morris
Founder Of Team Third Heaven
Mr. Justin Morris is the founder of Third Heaven Martial Arts and has been teaching martial arts since 1995. He holds a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a 4th Degree Black Belt in First Wave Jiu-Jitsu, and Black Belts in Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Tae Kwon Do. In addition to these ranks, he has studied and taught a wide variety of other martial arts systems throughout his career. Mr. Morris established the first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school in the state of Wisconsin and later founded First Wave Jiu-Jitsu, a system dedicated to practical, combat-effective grappling and self-defense.
Mr. Jeff Growel
Mr. JEff C. Growel is the Owner and Chief Instructor of Royal Court Martial Arts Academy . With over 30 years of experience in both Eastern and Western martial arts, he is one of the few Black Belt instructors trained in the rare system of Chung Do Mu Sool Won Hapkido under Grandmaster Hwang In-Mo and Senior Master Instructor Michael Augsburger. Mr. Growel is passionate about developing character and life skills in his younger students and has worked with individuals of all ages and ability levels. He also teaches Mixed Martial Arts—blending Muay Thai, Hapkido, and Jiu-Jitsu—and offers specialized training in women’s self-defense and personal development.
Mr. Jamie Sparling
Mr. Jamie Sparling is the owner and head instructor of Affinity Martial Arts, bringing over three decades of experience to his students. He began training in 1993 under Steve Fristoe in Kali Filipino Martial Arts and went on to train with Dan Inosanto, earning senior associate instructorships in Filipino Martial Arts and Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do, as well as a Level 2 certification in Majapahit Silat. Mr. Sparling also holds a black belt in Third Heaven Martial Arts under Justin Morris and is known for his deep passion for martial arts and commitment to sharing practical, effective training with students of all backgrounds.
Mr. Nigel May
Mr. Nigel May is a lifelong martial artist with over 35 years of mat experience and holds an 8th Dan in Daitoryu Jujutsu and HapKiD. He also holds black belts in Taekwondo, Tukgong Musul, and a 1st degree black belt in First Wave Jiu-Jitsu. A passionate student of self-defense and combat arts, Mr. May has traveled extensively to deepen his training—making multiple trips to Japan, Korea, Italy, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Known for his dedication and humility, he continues to train, teach, and evolve, always pursuing practical and effective martial arts. He credits Coach Justin Morris for inspiring his ongoing commitment to self-defense-focused Jiu-Jitsu.
Mr. Chad Moore
Mr. Chad Moore is a 4th Degree Black Belt in World Taekwondo and an instructor at Warriors Academy, where he is known for his versatility and passion for teaching. He holds a Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has developed strong proficiency in kickboxing and a variety of weapons, including the bow staff, cane, sword, and nunchaku. Mr. Moore also leads a successful women’s self-defense program and is committed to equipping students with practical, effective skills for real-world situations. His well-rounded martial arts background makes him a respected and valuable member of Team Third Heaven.
Mr. Nathan Jennings
Pastor Nathan Jennings is the senior pastor of First Free Will Baptist Church and a lifelong martial artist with a distinguished and diverse background. He holds a 5th Degree Black Belt in Shorin-Ryu, 4th Degree ranks in both Isshin-Ryu and Kyushin Ryu Jujitsu, and additional black belts in Taekwondo (Chung Do Kwan), Combat Hapkido, Judo, the Chuck Norris System (UFAF), Goju-Ryu (USA), and the Joe Lewis Fighting System. Pastor Jennings also holds a Lakan Antas 2 rank in Arnis Stick Fighting and a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His passion for both ministry and martial arts reflects a lifelong dedication to personal growth, discipline, and the empowerment of others.
Mr. Rodger Frievalt
Pastor Rodger Frievalt is the full-time pastor of Victory Center Church and serves as a spiritual mentor to many members of Team Third Heaven. He is an accomplished martial artist with a strong background in physical fitness and bodybuilding. Pastor Frievalt holds a Brown Belt in Third Heaven Mixed Martial Arts and a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His unique combination of spiritual leadership and martial arts training allows him to guide others in both their faith and personal development, making him a valued leader and role model within the community.