Meet the CoachProfessor Helder Franklin Soares
Owner and head instructor of Tetris Jiu-Jitsu. More than three decades in martial arts, a championship Jiu-Jitsu competitor and referee, and a former police officer.
- Martial arts since 1988
- Jiu-Jitsu referee
The story
A teacher shaped by three decades on the mat.
Professor Helder Franklin Soares is the owner and head instructor of Tetris Jiu-Jitsu Orlando, and he has spent more than three decades studying, practicing and teaching martial arts. His journey began in 1988 in Judo, where he built the discipline, resilience and competitive mindset that became the foundation of his career.
Helder went on to establish himself as a respected Jiu-Jitsu competitor, earning multiple championship titles. He has also served as a referee for some of the most recognized Jiu-Jitsu federations in the world, which gives him a unique perspective on competition and technical development.
Off the mats, he served as a police officer, an experience that sharpened his leadership, situational awareness and practical self-defense skills, all of which still shape his coaching today.
As an instructor, Helder is known for technical precision, a structured teaching method and the ability to connect with students of every age, from a child stepping onto the mats for the first time to a competitor chasing a title.
Help every student become stronger, more confident and more capable, on and off the mats.
The experience
Earned on every side of the mat.
As a competitor, a referee, a police officer and a teacher, Professor Helder has seen Jiu-Jitsu from every angle, and it shows in how carefully he teaches.
On the mat
- 1988
Began his martial arts journey in Judo
- Titles
Multiple Jiu-Jitsu championship titles
- Referee
Referee for some of the world’s most recognized Jiu-Jitsu federations
Off the mat
- Service
Former police officer
- Teaching
Coaches every age, from a first kids class to competitors
- Owner
Founder of Tetris Jiu-Jitsu Orlando
Coaching alongside
Coach Duda Franklin
Brown belt · Competitor
Duda Franklin is a brown belt and active competitor who coaches alongside Professor Helder, bringing competition experience and energy to every class. If you walk in for your first class, Duda is one of the first faces you’ll meet.
What students say
Patient, technical and kind.
5.047 Google reviews
Read all 47 reviews on Google“Fantastic class. I am glad to be training with such a high level instructor. Helder is an amazing instructor.”
“I showed up late and Helder Franklin was waiting still! He’s a great instructor and suitable for all levels!”
“Amazing school and amazing instructor giving us breakdowns and knowledge about the techniques.”
Your first class is free
Your journey starts here.
Pick a program and we'll text you to set up your free class. Every class is open to first-timers, and the coaches will guide you from the very first minute.
- No experience or fitness needed
- Just wear comfortable workout clothes
- Coached by a 30-year martial artist
Prefer to talk? (321) 399-2991