Instructors

Senior Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Instructor | Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt

About Larry

Lawrence (Larry) Yap is a retired U.S. Army Ranger with over 40 years of martial arts experience. A highly accomplished martial artist, Larry received his black belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu from Rorion Gracie in 2013 and holds additional black belts in Hapkido (under Grandmaster Song S. Choi) and Judo/Midori Yama Budokai Japanese Jiu-Jitsu (under Sensei Frank Barry).

Larry’s martial arts journey began at just 10 years old, competing in amateur boxing (AAU & PAL) and Muay Thai under Kru Takkratoke. Over the years, he has fought in numerous all-service military Muay Thai bouts in Thailand, as well as U.S.-Thai friendship competitions at Lumpini Stadium and City Hall in Saraburi, Thailand.

In addition to his striking background, Larry was a high school and collegiate wrestler at the University of Missouri. His Gracie Jiu-Jitsu journey began in 1989 under Relson Gracie and Romolo Barros, training in a garage in Hawaii Kai and at the University of Hawaii. He earned his purple belt and continued training while competing in no-gi, sambo, and MMA competitions across the world, including California, Las Vegas, Florida, Hawaii, UAE, Brazil, Thailand, Korea, and Japan. After an impressive career, Larry retired from competition in 2000.

Teaching & Coaching Philosophy

Now back in the game, Larry is dedicated to refining his teaching skills and helping students grow on and off the mat. As a Certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy Black Belt Instructor, he is committed to sharing his deep knowledge and real-world experience with students of all levels.

Why Train with Larry?

With decades of martial arts expertise and an unmatched passion for teaching, Larry brings a wealth of knowledge, discipline, and combat-tested techniques to every class. It’s often joked that Larry has forgotten more about jiu-jitsu than most of us will ever know—but what he does remember, he shares with clarity, precision, and a sense of humor that keeps training both engaging and effective. His students benefit not only from technical instruction but also from the mentality and discipline of a lifelong martial artist and military veteran.

Outside the Gym

Larry is a Chesapeake resident and the proud father of two Grassfield High School graduates.

Owner & Master Instructor | 8th Degree Tang Soo Do Black Belt | Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt

About Bill

Bill Odom is a highly accomplished martial artist with over 50 years of experience as a Tang Soo Do practitioner and instructor. An 8th-degree black belt, Bill has dedicated his life to martial arts mastery, instruction, and leadership. His martial arts journey began at just 10 years old in Thailand, where he first trained before refining his foundational skills under James K. Roberts, Sr. in Springfield, Virginia.

After a decade of karate training, Bill joined the U.S. Army, where he served for 25 years, commanding infantry units, including Army Rangers. Throughout his military career, he acquired extensive knowledge in various martial arts and developed his teaching and combatives expertise. Notably, he created a combatives program for over 14,000 soldiers in Korea and has taught men and women of all ages, from military personnel to civilian students.

A former nationally ranked competitor, Bill has continued his martial arts education by regularly training at Gracie University. He is a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu black belt and a dedicated student of Rorion, Ryron, and Rener Gracie. In addition, he established the first Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Certified Training Center and holds a Level 4 instructor certification.

Teaching & Coaching Philosophy

With decades of experience across multiple martial arts disciplines, Bill’s teaching philosophy is rooted in discipline, practical application, and personal development. His extensive background in military combatives and self-defense allows him to bring a unique perspective to his instruction, helping students develop both physical skills and mental resilience.

Why Train with Bill?

Bill’s wealth of knowledge, skill, and leadership sets him apart as a martial arts instructor. He is deeply committed to helping students of all backgrounds succeed, whether they are training for self-defense, competition, or personal growth. His experience, mature judgment, and dedication to excellence make him an outstanding mentor for anyone looking to master martial arts in a structured, supportive environment.

Outside the Gym

Bill is a Norfolk resident and a father of four, including a graduate of Maury High School.

Soo Bahk Do Mentor & Advisor | Founder of Hampton Roads Karate
9th Degree Black Belt – Soo Bahk Do

About James

Master James Donnelly, Jr. is a 9th-degree black belt with over 50 years of experience in training, teaching, and mentoring martial artists. His journey began in 1966 as a student of Chuck Norris, and since 1970, he has trained under Victor Martinov, 9th-degree black belt.

A dedicated martial artist and lifelong student, Master Donnelly has trained at the Soo Bahk Do International Headquarters in 1989, 1995, 2000, and 2005 under the direct supervision of Hwang Kee, the founder of Soo Bahk Do, and his son, Grandmaster H.C. Hwang.

Today, he is a nationally certified Master Level instructor under the U.S. Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Federation and one of the senior ranking members of the organization.

Leadership & Teaching Legacy

Master Donnelly established Hampton Roads Soo Bahk Do in 1991, shaping the region’s martial arts community and producing generations of skilled students and instructors. In 2014, he partnered with Bill Odom to expand the school’s curriculum by incorporating Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, blending traditional martial arts with modern self-defense techniques.

Why Train with Master Donnelly?

With a lifetime dedicated to Soo Bahk Do and martial arts education, Master Donnelly continues to advise the karate program and mentor the next generation of instructors. His depth of knowledge, direct training under legendary martial artists, and commitment to preserving and evolving martial arts traditions make him an invaluable mentor, leader, and advisor at the school.

Senior Soo Bahk Do Instructor | 6th Degree Black Belt

About Keith

Keith Wildonger is a 6th-degree black belt with over 25 years of experience in training, teaching, and mentoring martial artists. He began his Soo Bahk Do journey in 1992 and continues training under Master James Donnelly, 9th-degree black belt.

A nationally certified Master Level instructor under the U.S. Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Federation, Keith is dedicated to preserving and evolving traditional martial arts. His leadership extends beyond the dojo—he currently serves as both the Region 3 elected representative to the Board of Directors and the Board Chairman of the organization.

Military & Leadership Background

Keith is a retired Naval Flight Officer, having honorably served 26 years on active duty followed by 4 years as a government contractor. His discipline, leadership, and commitment to excellence are evident in both his military career and his martial arts instruction.

Why Train with Keith?

With decades of experience in Soo Bahk Do and military leadership, Keith brings a structured, disciplined, and practical approach to his instruction. His deep knowledge of traditional martial arts, leadership experience, and passion for teaching make him a valuable mentor for students of all levels.

Outside the Gym

Keith lives in Chesapeake, VA, where he remains dedicated to training and developing the next generation of martial artists.

Jason Picano – Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Program Director

About Jason

Jason Picano is a martial artist with over 40 years of experience and has a passion for sharing his
knowledge with others. He began his training in the mid-1980s with a traditional style of Karate,
where he was an avid tournament competitor for many years. In 1994, Jason expanded his
martial arts journey to include Judo, and in 1998, he began studying Gracie/Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
As a graduate of the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy’s Instructor Certification Program, Jason believes
that Jiu-Jitsu offers life-changing benefits for individuals of all ages, fitness levels, and abilities.
Jason’s martial arts journey has been shaped by his personal experiences and commitment to
improvement. As a practitioner in his mid-50s, he is particularly attuned to the challenges older
students may face, offering guidance with a focus on safety, encouragement, and individual
progress. His approach to teaching emphasizes the importance of physical and emotional well-
being, creating a positive, supportive environment for all students.

Teaching & Coaching Philosophy

Jason is dedicated to helping students develop both on and off the mat. His coaching style is
grounded in years of personal experience, providing students with practical techniques and
fostering a mindset that supports growth in martial arts and in life. He believes that Jiu-Jitsu must
be learned through diligent practice. His approach emphasizes hands-on training, encouraging
students to refine their skills through repetition, focus, and dedication.

Why Train with Jason?

Jason has a vast knowledge of martial arts, a wealth of personal experience, and a genuine
enthusiasm for teaching. His focus on safety, technical precision, and student support ensures
that all individuals can benefit from the power of Jiu-Jitsu, no matter their background or goals.
Jason firmly believes that Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone who wants to learn it, regardless of any
perceived limitations.

Outside the Gym

In addition to his martial arts training, Jason works as a senior structural engineer and design
manager. He enjoys staying active and maintains a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

Erin Reilly – Administrator

Shannon Higgins – Assistant Soo Bahk Do Instructor

Mariah is a Gracie jiu-jitsu purple belt and a certified Women Empowered® instructor.

Certified Gracie Jiu Jitsu Instructor | 3-Stripe Purple Belt
Head Instructor – Gracie Bullyproof® Program

About Troy

Troy Ingram is a Certified Gracie Jiu Jitsu Instructor and the Head of the Gracie Bullyproof® Program. With a 3-stripe purple belt and training experience dating back to 2006, Troy brings years of knowledge and passion to the mat. His journey in jiu jitsu started after a pivotal moment—almost getting into a fight and realizing he had no idea how to defend himself. The very next day, he stepped into Norfolk Karate Academy, where fate reconnected him with a childhood friend’s father, who would become his first instructor.

Jiu jitsu quickly became more than just a skill—it became a way of life. What Troy enjoys most is that jiu jitsu is for everyone, regardless of age, size, or background, and that the school provides a safe, empowering space for those who need it most.

Teaching Philosophy

Specializing in Gracie Bullyproof®, Troy is committed to teaching kids self-defense, confidence, and character development. While he is certified in multiple Gracie programs, his passion lies in helping kids grow both on and off the mats. His classes strike the perfect balance between fun and structure, ensuring that students not only learn techniques but also develop discipline, respect, and verbal assertiveness. Unlike many other programs, he takes pride in the fact that Gracie Bullyproof® focuses not just on physical defense, but also on verbal assertiveness, confidence-building, and personal growth.

Why Train with Troy?

Whether it’s through structured lessons, engaging drills, or character-building exercises, Troy is dedicated to creating a positive impact in his students’ lives. He believes that jiu jitsu should be fun but also meaningful.

Outside the Gym

Troy is a Chesapeake resident and a proud father of two boys. His older son is already a student in the Gracie Bullyproof® program, while his younger son is eagerly waiting until he’s old enough to join. In the meantime, he gets to practice with Dad at home, learning through Gracie Games and building confidence on the mats early.