Tarsis Humphreys

Early Life and Introduction to Jiu-Jitsu

Tarsis Humphreys began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey around age 13, inspired when a school friend demonstrated effective submissions such as the Armbar and Mata Leão. Captivated by the practicality and efficiency of these techniques, Humphreys committed himself fully to training. He trained exclusively under the renowned Fabio Gurgel, the "General" of Alliance, who awarded Humphreys all his belts. In 2006, after securing his second world title at brown belt, Humphreys received his black belt from Gurgel.

Alliance Roots and Academy Expansion

Humphreys holds a unique distinction as the first student to earn every belt directly from Fabio Gurgel at Alliance, reflecting his deep roots within the team. Initially instructing in São Paulo, Humphreys briefly opened an academy in the United States around 2010 before returning to Brazil. He later relocated permanently to San Diego, California, strategically establishing a new Alliance-affiliated academy to expand the team's presence in the region. In San Diego, Humphreys actively coaches local students and cultivates a competitive team environment.

Technical Innovations: Lasso Guard and São Paulo Pass

Lasso Guard System

Humphreys is widely recognized for his innovative contributions to the lasso guard, a position he has extensively refined and systematized. He has produced an instructional DVD dedicated to this guard and regularly conducts seminars to share his detailed approach and strategic insights.

São Paulo Pass

Additionally, Humphreys developed a signature smash-passing sequence known as the "São Paulo pass," characterized by heavy pressure and precise control. During his competitive prime, Humphreys strategically concealed certain techniques, reserving them for critical moments in competition. As a coach, however, he openly shares these previously guarded innovations with his students.

Coaching Philosophy and Mental Training

Humphreys emphasizes the importance of mental training alongside physical technique, drawing from his extensive studies in sports psychology. He advocates frequent competition as a method to develop mental toughness, viewing competition itself as a skill requiring consistent practice. Humphreys also promotes balance through yoga and breathing exercises, practices he credits for his longevity in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Furthermore, he stresses the necessity of adapting one's game with age, transitioning from youthful explosiveness to a more strategic approach emphasizing timing, pressure, and fundamental techniques.

Transition to MMA Coaching

Around 2016–2017, Humphreys expanded his coaching expertise into mixed martial arts (MMA), serving as a grappling coach at an Alliance MMA affiliate. During this period, he worked closely with elite MMA athletes, including UFC competitor Wilson Reis. Humphreys specialized in adapting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques specifically for MMA, emphasizing takedowns, positional dominance, leg lock defense, and top pressure. He has also advised numerous Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champions transitioning into MMA, helping them effectively tailor their grappling skills for the cage.

Competition Style and Evolution

Throughout his competitive career, Humphreys was known for his strategic and technical approach, relying heavily on timing, pressure, and fundamental techniques. As he matured, Humphreys consciously adapted his competitive style, shifting from youthful explosiveness to a more methodical, pressure-based game. Although primarily focused on coaching, Humphreys continues to compete occasionally in Masters divisions and superfights. He believes ongoing competition experience is essential for coaches, keeping them sharp, relatable, and continuously evolving within the sport.