Experience Snapshot
World-class Jiu-Jitsu instruction, a mission that matters, and the best of Tamarindo.
This Is What Your Retreat Could Look Like
Train hard, recover by the ocean, and explore Costa Rica with people who share your mindset — this isn't just a seminar, it's a full experience.
A Hero retreat is built around training, adventure, and real connection
Every retreat is designed to feel balanced and memorable — world-class jiu-jitsu instruction, time to enjoy Tamarindo, and a community atmosphere that makes the whole trip feel easy from day one.
Tom DeBlass
3rd-Degree Black Belt • UFC & ONE Championship Veteran • Academy Founder
Tom DeBlass is one of the most widely respected black belts, competitors, and instructors in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu today — known for breaking down complex technique into something any student can actually use.
Credentials & Experience
Read full bio
A former special education teacher, Tom found his way to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at 19 after an injury ended his track and field career. He trained under Ricardo Almeida, earning his black belt in six and a half years and later his 3rd degree — part of a lineage that runs through Renzo Gracie, Carlos Gracie Jr., and Helio Gracie.
Tom went on to win Pan American and World Championship titles in Jiu-Jitsu, then took his skills into professional MMA, competing in the UFC, Bellator, and ONE Championship. In 2006, at 24, he opened his own academy, Ocean County Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which has since grown into a network of affiliate schools across the US, Canada, Costa Rica, and Argentina.
As a coach, Tom is known for turning complex jiu-jitsu concepts into simple, teachable pieces — a skill he credits to his background in special education. He's produced nearly 30 black belts of his own, including standout competitors like Garry Tonon and Jen Allen Russell, and remains one of the most in-demand seminar instructors in the sport.
Train With Tom DeBlass
Spaces are intentionally limited to keep the retreat personal, high-quality, and focused on real learning.
Who This Retreat Is Perfect For
This experience is designed for people who love Jiu-Jitsu, meaningful travel, and being part of something bigger than just a vacation.
All Belt Levels
From white belts to black belts. Training is structured so everyone can learn, improve, and enjoy the experience.
Travelers & Adventurers
For people who want more than a typical vacation — train with a world-class instructor while exploring Costa Rica.
Solo Travelers Welcome
Many guests come alone and leave with lifelong friends, training partners, and unforgettable memories.
Training + Lifestyle
Train hard, then relax at the beach, explore waterfalls, surf, or enjoy Tamarindo's sunsets and food.
People Who Value Purpose
Proceeds go to HeroKids — funding free training and mentorship for local kids since 2016.
Bucket-List Experiences
Guests consistently say this becomes one of the most memorable experiences of their entire Jiu-Jitsu journey.
Secure your spot before this retreat fills
Choose your experience below. Most guests reserve with a $500 deposit and finalize details later.
What's Included
Train in paradise.
Help change a kid's life.
Every Hero retreat helps fuel the HeroKids Program — proceeds from this retreat benefit HeroKids, providing free Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, mentorship, and positive community for local children in Tamarindo since 2016.
When you attend this retreat, you're not just taking an unforgettable trip — you're helping create opportunities, mentorship, and positive role models for the next generation of Costa Rican kids.
What Past Attendees Say
Beautiful surroundings, great facilities, kind training partners and the opportunity to train with the all-time greats of BJJ. Hugely recommended. Update! I came back for a second retreat and still can't speak highly enough of what Ron and Hero have created here. The support is second to none and the atmosphere is fun and electric. I'll be back next year - if you're thinking about a HeroBJJ retreat and worried it all sounds too good to be true, don't worry, it really is that awesome.
The best jiu jitsu vacation ever! Ron is such a fantastic host in every possible way. Everything was well organized in terms of schedule, itinerary, social, logistics and more! He also brings the best BJJ coaches in the world. Henry Akins is the best of the best and his insight is truly special in a way that changes your mindset completely. We had such an amazing group of people who were so eager to learn and pick Henry's brain that every session was full of mind-blowing details. I cannot speak highly enough of Ron and Hero Academy Camps!!!
First time to a Hero BJJ seminar, blew away expectations. Tamarindo is a fun, diverse, beautiful and tasty town and an incredible place to have an academy. But not just any academy. Ron and his team have a huge kids class that trains free of charge! It sets up a culture of giving and connectedness that comes through every pore of the place and people. This has been a truly exceptional experience and I already can't wait to come back.
This retreat will definitely be one of the most memorable moments in my BJJ journey. The hospitality at Hero is absolute and genuine. The instruction by my favorite legend of the game was World class. The new friendships I trust will be enduring. In just the few days of this camp, my love of the art was reinvigorated. So it's going to prove to be one major driving force to the evolution of my skill set. This retreat should be on the bucket list of every jiu jiteiro.
This is my second time down here to a Hero BJJ Retreat, and again, it did not disappoint. Ron Jarman is the best retreat host hands down. They have it dialed in at Hero BJJ to make sure everyone has a great time. The quality of instruction was world class, and everyone training was super cool. Lots of skill across the board. Did the waterfall tour this time around, and it was amazing! Good times, good rolls, amazing food in Tamarindo - 100% will be back again!!
If you're on the fence Hero BJJ Retreats. Don't be. Just do it! This was my first trip to Costa Rica and first-ever BJJ retreat. Both on and off the mats, the trip was an incredible experience from start to finish. Of course, it was a pleasure not only to learn techniques from GOAT Xande Ribeiro but also to gain insight into how he trains and approaches the game. He was extremely accessible - what an awesome treat. And Ron was an amazing host, making sure we all were comfortable and had all the right information.
First time in Costa Rica and attending a retreat. This BJJ experience was awesome! Great training with legend Xande Ribeiro, a super fun group, and a solid mix of gi and no-gi sessions. Ron, who runs Hero Academy, is an awesome host and makes sure everyone has a great time. Our hotel was just a short walk from the gym and had incredible ocean views. Waking up with my espresso and that view every morning was the best.
Had an incredible time at this BJJ retreat! It was my first trip to Costa Rica, and the whole experience was amazing — great training, beautiful scenery, and an awesome group of people with world class BJJ. Shoutout to Ron for making this a seamless experience. Highly recommend it for all belt levels!
Hero Academy is such an amazing place to train. The camps they put on are top-notch, full of fun activities on top of the Jiu-Jitsu, and they also offer great instruction. Nacho is a great instructor, and Ron is such a great guy. Can't recommend Hero enough!
This was an amazing experience! Open air gym in paradise! I was here for Roy Dean who is absolutely amazing. His instruction is detailed and simple to understand. The day before we got there Dan Hart was having his retreat, and after decided to just stick around!!! I got to meet and roll with both Dan and Roy. The highlight of the experience was getting to work with the Hero kids. Something happened with the transportation so only about 10 of them showed up. Most rewarding part of the entire week. Ron and Nacho run an amazing place.
Just finished my 3rd camp this year at hero and my 4th visit this year. Never disappoints. This trip was the Dan Hart Charity seminar. Ron and company may saved the best for last. Good group, good jiujitsu, good location all for a good cause. Don't miss a chance for a hero event in 2022 or if you can't get away consider supporting the cause.
One of the best trips ever. Ron and his team were the best hosts. Anything we needed they were able to accommodate. Great recommendations for activities and food and shopping. We will be back for sure!
This is the 3rd time we have come out for a camp at Hero and won't be our last! It's a great facility with a great cause behind it. Ron always makes sure everything runs smoothly from airport pickups to hotel rooms. Plenty to enjoy in the beautiful city of Tamarindo when you are not training. You will not be disappointed.
Traincation! Embrace the Pura Vida of Costa Rica. Top level instructors in a super chill dojo. We made friendships & memories that will last a lifetime.
Quick Answers Before You Book
The essentials most people ask before reserving a spot.
What’s included in the retreat?
Training sessions, curated schedule, and on-the-ground support from our team. Your exact inclusions depend on the package you choose.
Tip: Scroll up to “What’s Included” and the hotel section for full package details.
What airport should I fly into?
Most guests fly into Liberia International Airport (LIR). It’s the easiest option for Tamarindo.
If you’re unsure, message us and we’ll help you choose the best routing.
Can I come alone?
Yes — solo travelers are very common. We keep groups small and the atmosphere welcoming, so people usually make friends quickly on and off the mats.
Can I bring a spouse or family?
Yes. Many guests bring a companion and turn the trip into a full vacation. Tamarindo is easy for non-training partners with beaches, restaurants, and excursions nearby.
If you need help coordinating rooms, companion options, or extra nights, we’ve got you.
How do I reserve my spot?
You can secure your spot with a $500 deposit. The remaining balance is due 45 days before the retreat.
Most guests reserve early with the deposit so they can lock in their place without paying in full upfront.
What’s the cancellation / transfer policy?
We keep booking flexible because we know plans can change.
60+ days before retreat: full credit toward any future Hero retreat, valid for 12 months.
30–59 days before retreat: 50% credit toward a future Hero retreat.
Within 30 days: your spot is fully transferable or can be resold.
If something comes up, message us directly. We’ll always do our best to help you find a solution.
Your early access pricing ends in
Reserve now for the best available pricing on the Tom DeBlass retreat before your current offer expires.