Grand Opening September 14 — Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Jiu Jitsu - Wrestling - Self Defense
Train with intention. Train with the best.
Structured no-gi classes for kids and adults in Eau Claire — no experience needed.
Doors Open In
About Northstar
Jiu Jitsu Academy in Eau Claire, Wisconsin
We offer youth and adult programs focused on no-gi Jiu Jitsu, led by Nicholas Craton — a Black Belt under 2x World Champion Dante Leon. Proudly affiliated with Adamas and Pedigo Submission Fighting.
Our Programs
Find the Right Class
Beginners to Advanced
All Levels
Each month follows a central theme based on a core position, with weekly sub-themes that build on each other. Monthly themes, positional training, and live rounds.
No Experience Required
Fundamentals
Build the foundation first. Learn core positions and concepts alongside other beginners in a controlled, welcoming environment — no pressure, no experience needed.
Ages 4–7
Little Dippers
Games, movement drills, and partner activities that keep young kids engaged and learning. Structure, discipline, and fun — kids learn when to work and when to play.
Ages 8–12
Rising Stars
Structured practice, teamwork, and progressive skill development. Confidence comes from consistent effort, intentional training, and seeing real progress over time.
Meet the Head Instructor
Nicholas Craton
Head Instructor — Jiu Jitsu Black Belt
Nicholas Craton is a Jiu Jitsu Black Belt with 15+ years of experience on the mat. Promoted under Dante Leon — 2x ADCC Medalist and 2x IBJJF World Champion — Nicholas proudly represents Adamas and Pedigo Submission Fighting, as well as sponsors Parry Athletics and Westside Barbell.
Meet the TeamWhat People Say
Trusted by the Jiu Jitsu Community
"I have trained with Nick for years, and his experience and passion for grappling makes him a great instructor. He leads the kids and adults by example and upholds the values of his affiliations proudly. I would highly recommend North Star Jiu Jitsu if you're in the area."
"Nick is a dedicated athlete and practitioner that has 10+ years of training and 5+ of teaching experience. He has proven his skills as an instructor, competitor and referee all over the country. Excited to see what Nick builds with North Star Jiu Jitsu."
"I've been training with, learning from and helping instruct kids classes with Nick for several years now. He's a great guy, great competitor and great instructor. He has a great teaching style, is extremely knowledgeable and has a systematic approach. I'm excited for the future students of North Star Jiu Jitsu and bummed we won't have him with us! I do wish him all the best at NSJJ."
"I've been training alongside Nick for as long as he's been training, so I've had a front-row seat to everything he's put into this. Few people match the work ethic he brings, he is as dedicated as anyone I've ever seen on the mats. That same relentless drive is going to make North Star Jiu Jitsu something special for Eau Claire."
Pricing
Simple, Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees. No contracts. No surprises.
Adults Jiu Jitsu
Founding Member Rate
- No signup fee
- No contract
- No experience required
- Free week trial included
Kids Jiu Jitsu
Founding Member Rate
- Ages 4–12
- No signup fee
- No contract
- Free week trial included
Special pricing available for Founding Members, families, college students, and first responders & military. View all pricing →
Why Northstar
No Barriers. No Nonsense. Just Jiu Jitsu.
No Contract
Train month to month. No long-term commitment required.
No Signup Fee
Pay nothing to get started. Your first week is completely free.
No Experience Needed
Everyone starts from zero. We guide you from your very first day.
Free Week Trial
Try a full week of classes before making any decision.
FAQ
New to Jiu Jitsu? Start Here.
Not sure what to expect? These answers explain what Jiu Jitsu is, who it's for, and what your first class looks like.
What Is Jiu Jitsu?
A non-striking martial art where students learn to control an opponent using technique, leverage, and live practice — not size or strength.
Who Is It For?
Anyone. Most students begin with zero experience. Jiu Jitsu is learned step-by-step through coaching, drilling, and live practice.
What Does My First Class Look Like?
All you need is athletic clothes. We'll introduce the goals of Jiu Jitsu, cover basic positions, and guide you through every step.