Noah Shaffner is one of the most promising young talents emerging from Standard Jiu Jitsu. A brown belt under Greg Souders, he began training in 2021 and, within just a few years, has built a competitive resume that reflects both mettle and maturity far beyond his age.
At 19, Shaffner has already made waves on the national stage. He won gold in the under 76kg division at the 2024 ADCC Canada Open in Toronto, submitting all five of his opponents. The year prior, he earned bronze at the ADCC US Open in Chicago, racking up five victories with four submissions.
In just four years of training, he has submitted many seasoned black belts. His style is gritty, effective, and constantly evolving. It is rooted in deep problem-solving rather than surface-level flash.
More than just a competitor, Shaffner is a thinker. He has become a voice for the next generation of grapplers who are moving beyond outdated training models. Featured on podcasts such as BJJ Mental Models and The Primal MMA Coaching Podcast, he shares insights on how ecological dynamics and the constraints-led approach transformed his understanding of skill development.
At Standard Jiu Jitsu, Shaffner helps shape a culture that values exploration over imitation, representative games over rote drills, and learning over ego. His ability to communicate complex ideas clearly makes him not only a formidable athlete but also a trusted coach and teammate.
Train With Noah
Start your free 7-class trial at Standard Jiu Jitsu.