RIVERTON, Wyo. — Central Wyoming College will host Gracie Survival Tactics Level 1 training this spring, providing local and state law enforcement officers with modern defensive tactics instruction focused on de-escalation and injury reduction.
The five-day training will take place Monday through Friday, June 8-12, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day in the Riverton High School wrestling room. The cost to attend is $1500.
The course will be led by Jeff Greekas, a Gracie Survival Tactics Master Instructor through Gracie University and a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt with more than a decade of experience training law enforcement personnel. Greekas has worked extensively with officers and agencies across the country, teaching practical control-based defensive tactics designed specifically for the challenges officers face in real-world encounters.
In addition to his work with law enforcement, Greekas has owned and operated a martial arts school for more than 14 years, where he has trained students of all ages and experience levels. His background includes instruction in both self-defense and professional tactics training, giving him a broad perspective on communication, situational awareness, and physical control techniques.
Greekas is also a certified Women Empowered Self-Defense Instructor through Gracie University and a California POST-certified 1070 Arrest and Control Instructor. He is approved by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) to teach the Gracie Survival Tactics course for official credit to Michigan peace officers. Organizers said his extensive instructional experience and nationally recognized credentials make him uniquely qualified to deliver the course to Wyoming officers.
With the recent introduction of the Central Wyoming College Police Academy, CWC’s Criminal Justice Department is committed to hosting regular professional development opportunities that support and strengthen local and statewide law enforcement agencies. Bringing Gracie Survival Tactics to Fremont County reflects that commitment.
Gracie Survival Tactics is part of the online Gracie University platform. The Gracie family is known for introducing Brazilian jiu-jitsu to the United States and expanding its reach worldwide. Royce Gracie’s success in the early days of the Ultimate Fighting Championship helped popularize Brazilian jiu-jitsu nationwide. Today, Gracie training centers operate across the country.
Nationally, law enforcement agencies have placed increased emphasis on de-escalation and modern defensive tactics. Many departments are incorporating Brazilian jiu-jitsu techniques to provide officers with greater control during physical encounters while reducing the likelihood of injury to both officers and subjects. Gracie Survival Tactics focuses on control-based grappling methods designed to minimize harm when a person resists arrest.
Central Wyoming College is hosting the training in collaboration with the Riverton Police Department and the Lander Police Department. Organizers said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to community safety and improved outcomes in police-civilian encounters.
“Central Wyoming College is proud to collaborate with our local law enforcement partners to bring high-quality training opportunities to our region,” said CWC Instructor of Criminal Justice Andrew Hanson. “As we launch the Central Wyoming College Police Academy, it is important that we continue building strong relationships throughout Fremont County and support efforts that enhance both officer preparedness and community trust.”
“This training represents our dedication to providing officers with practical, effective tools that prioritize safety for everyone involved,” said CWC Instructor Ryan Taylor. “By hosting Gracie Survival Tactics, we are investing in techniques that emphasize control, professionalism, and reducing injuries during high-stress encounters.”
For more information about Gracie Survival Tactics or the Central Wyoming College Police Academy, contact the Central Wyoming College criminal justice department.
What: Central Wyoming College’s Gracie Survival Tactics Training
When: Monday-Friday, June 8-12, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Riverton High School wrestling room
Cost: $1500
Register today here.
