INSTRUCTORS
BILL KONKEL
Owner | Senior Instructor
Bill Konkel is the Head BJJ Instructor at Voyage Jiu Jitsu. With over 20 years of martial arts experience, he holds a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Master Carlos Machado and is a certified 2nd-degree Black Belt through the IBJJF. In 2019, Bill brought the Voyage team under the GFT (Grappling Fight Team) banner, founding and leading the official IBJJF-recognized GFT Detroit affiliation.
Bill is an active competitor, representing his team in tournaments throughout the Midwest and internationally. He regularly steps onto the mats in IBJJF and other elite-level competitions, leading by example and inspiring his students to push their limits. His dedication to technical excellence, mentorship, and growth continues to shape the culture of Voyage Jiu Jitsu.
JASON WILHELMSEN
Senior Instructor
Coach Jason has been training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for over two decades. Fulfilling a lifelong dream, he earned his Black Belt in January 2015 under Master Carlos Machado and Professor Jamel McCurry. Known for his technical skill and calm, focused teaching style, Jason is passionate about helping students of all ages grow both on and off the mats.
One of his proudest moments in his journey was awarding a Black Belt to his own son—a powerful reflection of his deep dedication to family and the art of Jiu Jitsu. Coach Jason brings a wealth of experience, humility, and mentorship to every class, inspiring students through knowledge, discipline, and a love for learning.
STEVE SMALLRIDGE
Gi & No Gi Instructor
Steve began training Jiu Jitsu in 2008. After spending time at several gyms and taking a brief break from training, he found his home at Voyage Jiu Jitsu in 2016. Since then, Steve has remained an active competitor on the IBJJF circuit, earning multiple open titles and placing at prestigious tournaments such as the Masters No-Gi Worlds and Pans.
LEAR KIRKLAND
Gi & No Gi Instructor
Lear began his Jiu Jitsu journey in 2015 and quickly became a passionate practitioner, competitor, and instructor, earning his black belt in 2024. To Lear, Jiu Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it’s a way of life that empowers personal growth, discipline, and resilience across all areas of life. A dedicated member of Voyage Jiu Jitsu, Lear is also known for creatively blending his love of Hip Hop and Jiu Jitsu through a series of rap albums titled The Gift Rap, released under his stage name, “Learycal.”
PATRICK SALAZAR
Wrestling Coach
Patrick Salazar has been competing in the Michigan wrestling community since he was 12. By the age of 18 he had won over 150 matches and placed 7th in the Michigan State Finals. After High School Patrick has been coaching the Grosse Pointe South High School wrestling team for over 6 years. Training multiple state qualifiers and placers and leading his team to multiple district championships.
DAVID SALAZAR
Wrestling Coach
Dave Salazar has been on and off the wrestling mats since 2003 competing and coaching. He was a part of the most winningest team to ever go through Grosse Pointe North’s Wrestling program and racked up over 100 wins in just two seasons. Since he has been coaching at GPS High School the team has excelled to several championships, training multiple state qualifiers, and growing the once fledgling program back to excellence.
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29325 Harper Ave, St Clair Shores, MI 48081
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voyagejiujitsu@gmail.com
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586.260.2884