Valor House

ABOUT VALOR HOUSE

Built on more than skill.

Valor House was built on the belief that a strong community is shaped not only by the strength of its members, but by the values they choose to uphold together. Through high-level training, shared purpose and a commitment to character, family and service, we’re building a place where people can grow stronger both on and off the mats.

MEET THE FOUNDERS

Johnny Souza

Johnny Souza

Head Coach & Co-Founder

Johnny brings decades of martial arts experience, championship-level competition and a coaching career spanning children, adults and experienced competitors. His approach combines technical precision with patience and a commitment to helping students grow on and off the mats.

Giovanne Guedes

Giovanne Guedes

Co-Founder & Coach

A fourth-degree BJJ black belt with more than 20 years of experience, Gio has developed black belts, world champions and professional athletes. He brings a standard of coaching built around technical excellence, discipline, character and long-term development.

Chris Gillespie

Chris Gillespie

Co-Founder

A wrestler, BJJ black belt, business owner, husband and father, Chris helped create Valor House to be more than another gym—a place where families feel welcome, relationships matter and training strengthens people beyond the physical.

Ronnie Borders

Ronnie Borders

Co-Founder

A Valley Center native, commercial fisherman and father of four, Ronnie returned to Jiu-Jitsu after seeing the impact it had on his children. His experience brings a parent’s perspective and a passion for helping young people build confidence, discipline and resilience.