2nd Gear
About Us
Coaches
Kenneth Brown
Head Instructor
3rd Degree BJJ Black Belt
Kenneth earned his black belt in 2013 under Mike Moses of Evolve Academy in Gaithersburg, where he began teaching as a purple belt. From the start, he’s been deeply committed to both the science and the art of making Jiu Jitsu understandable and effective for every student — no matter their experience level.
Even today, Kenneth continues to refine his teaching methods, always seeking better ways to break down complex ideas and help students build real skill with clarity and confidence. That relentless pursuit of improvement is what inspired him to teach full time — and what drives the culture of growth at 2nd Gear.
Matthew Weinberg
BJJ Instructor
1st Degree BJJ Black Belt
Matthew began training Jiu Jitsu in 2002, and throughout the years, he has competed in tournaments gaining experience as both a competitor and a coach. In 2014 Matt began training with Kenneth Brown and in 2022 he had the distinction of being the first person to earn their Black Belt in BJJ from Kenneth. Matt is committed to helping others discover their own passion for martial arts and the personal growth that accompanies it. As an outspoken advocate for the physical and mental benefits of martial arts, Matt has happily given seminars to groups of all sizes, ages and skill levels. Matt works tirelessly to help create an inclusive community that supports its members and helps them grow as martial artists and individuals.
Becca Niburg
BJJ Instructor
BJJ Brown Belt
Becca received her brown belt in 2023. She started training in Brazilian jujitsu for self defense after feeling threatened by a romantic partner. When she started in 2015, she was often the only woman in class and wanted to make sure that other women had a different experience. She came to 2nd Gear to start the women’s program as a blue belt. Her teaching includes her background in trauma and mental health to make sure the class is inclusive and that every woman feels supported regardless of her reasons to join the program or goals in training. In addition to her role at 2nd Gear, she runs a yearly fundraiser within the community to raise awareness and money for suicide prevention.
Yemi Day
Muay Thai Head Instructor
Yemi has been on the martial arts path since 1991, when he began training in karate under the Tompkins Karate Association. His journey has spanned decades, styles, and disciplines — including competitive boxing, where he was runner-up in the United States Intercollegiate Boxing Association Championship (novice division) in 2017. On November 2, 2024, Yemi made history by competing in Maryland’s first-ever sanctioned Muay Thai fight, demonstrating both his dedication to the craft and his willingness to pioneer new ground.
A lifelong martial artist, Yemi approaches training as a vehicle for growth, discipline, and personal development — and brings that same mindset to every class he leads.
Peter Kofinas
Kids BJJ Instructor
BJJ Purple Belt
Peter started training at 2nd Gear in 2018. As a Chemical Engineering Professor and Chair, he has been teaching and doing research at the University of Maryland for nearly 30 years. He started Jiu Jitsu in his fifties and since then has gone above and beyond to be on the mat as much as possible, even when traveling nationally and internationally. He strongly believes in continuous improvement, and that teachers are as much learners as their students. His passion for teaching in academia has translated to teaching jiu jitsu, where he continuously improves his own skills by training but also by teaching others.
2nd Gear BJJ
Prince Georges County
8730 Cherry Ln, Suite 14
Laurel, MD 20707
Driving Directions
Email: [email protected]
Call Today! (240) 786-5553
Our Mission
At 2nd Gear, we’re passionate about martial arts and its power to build strength, character, and endurance. Our programs cater to all ages and skill levels, focusing on technique, strategy, and physical fitness in a safe, supportive environment.