OUR PHILOSOPHY
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Philosophy
At the core of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lies a philosophy rooted in integrity, honor, and respect. These values shape not only how we train but how we live our lives beyond the mats.
Integrity
Integrity is the foundation of martial arts. It means being honest with ourselves and our training partners, pushing forward with discipline, and holding ourselves accountable in every aspect of life. In Jiu-Jitsu, there are no shortcuts—growth comes from dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to face challenges head-on.
Honor
Honor in Jiu-Jitsu is about upholding the traditions of the art and respecting the sacrifices made by those who came before us. It means representing our lineage with pride and carrying ourselves with humility, whether we win or lose. True honor comes from knowing that we have given our best effort while respecting the integrity of the sport.
Respect
Respect is the glue that binds the Jiu-Jitsu community together. It extends beyond bowing to our instructors and training partners—it means treating everyone with dignity, regardless of their skill level or background. We recognize that every person who steps onto the mats contributes to the growth of the academy and the art as a whole.
Growth Through Challenge
Jiu-Jitsu teaches us that adversity is an opportunity. Whether overcoming physical exhaustion, refining technique, or facing setbacks, each struggle is a lesson that strengthens both body and mind. Through disciplined practice, we build resilience that carries over into every aspect of our lives.
A Legacy of Leadership
As a coach and mentor, Stephen Patrick Lefebvre has always emphasized these principles, instilling them in his students as they develop both as martial artists and individuals. His dedication to the sport has created a lineage of skilled practitioners who embody these values, ensuring that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Cornwall remains a community built on discipline, camaraderie, and excellence.
Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it is a way of life. By embracing its philosophy, we grow not just as fighters but as people, fostering a culture of respect, perseverance, and lifelong learning.
Stephen Patrick Lefebvre
Stephen Patrick Lefebvre earned his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt in March 2017, following a decade of dedicated training under Professor Steve Burgess, a 3rd-degree black belt and senior combatives instructor in the Canadian Forces.
Stephen’s journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began in 2007 while stationed in Petawawa, Ontario, with the Canadian Forces. During this time, he actively competed in grappling tournaments and Mixed Martial Arts. Unfortunately, his competitive career was cut short due to a severe knee injury.
After being medically discharged from the Canadian Forces in 2012, Stephen relocated to Cornwall, Ontario. As a purple belt, he began volunteering to teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, representing Evolution BJJ under Professors Steven Burgess and Dan Guillemette, the founders of the academy.
In 2017, Stephen became the first IBJJF-recognized black belt in Cornwall. Over the following years, he solidified his legacy as a coach and instructor, becoming the first in Cornwall to promote a student to the rank of black belt after a decade of instructing. He has since promoted three individuals to the rank of black belt, further establishing his impact on the local Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community. His first black belt, Dean McDonell, has taken over the academy, continuing Stephen's legacy.
Stephen has coached numerous competitors to success in MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai, nurturing champions across various disciplines. His influence has shaped Cornwall’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu scene, with the city’s lineage in the sport tracing directly back to him.
Although Stephen has recently retired from actively teaching regular classes, he continues to support the community by running an open mat session Monday to Friday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.
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CLasses for both adults and children
Class is Monday to Friday from 7-830pm and is open to all skill levels
Open Mat is Monday to Friday 12-1pm
Photo Gallery
Dean McDonell is Stephen Patrick Lefebvre first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and is the owner and main instructor at Seaway Academy
Contact Us
Better yet, see us in person!
We love our customers, so feel free to visit during normal business hours.
Seaway Academy
1150 Montreal Road, Cornwall, Ontario K6H 1E2, Canada
613-818-0268 Dean McDonell owner/Blackbelt Instructor Seaway Academy
Hours
Monday to Friday 6-830pm
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