Heather Kerekes

Heather's journey into the realm of jiu-jitsu began at the end of 2020, inspired by her husband, Joel Kerekes, who introduced her to this dynamic martial art. She began her training at Paragon in California, a prestigious establishment founded by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner Franjinha Miller.

Her dedication and passion for jiu-jitsu became evident when she earned her blue belt in October 2022 while training at Paragon. Heather has consistently relished not only the rigorous training but also the excitement and challenges of the competition scene, which allows her to continually test her skills. Heather was promoted to purple belt in February 2026 by Joel Kerekes and Troy Holton.

A major aspect that played a part in Heather's love for Jiu-Jitsu came from the women she first met and who welcomed her onto the mats. It felt intimidating at first, but she quickly warmed up to it all when she realized how kind everyone actually was.  Most importantly, she was pleasantly surprised by how helpful and encouraging everyone was.  These incredible women showed her the amazing power of Jiu-Jitsu. Heather appreciates everyone she has come across during her journey on the mats. One of Heather's biggest goals at American Viking Jiu-Jitsu is to build up a strong women's program in hopes to share the empowerment, confidence, camaraderie, and absolute fun that Jiu-Jitsu allowed her to experience since day one.

In parallel with her jiu-jitsu journey, Heather has long nurtured a profound passion for working with children. Her extensive experience, knowledge, and expertise in child development have been cultivated over the years.

After completing high school in 2012, Heather embarked on her career as a nanny for local families, all while pursuing her college education. Her commitment to child development shaped her academic journey, prompting her to change majors and ultimately earn a Bachelor's Degree in Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies, along with a minor in Child Psychology from California State University, Bakersfield, in 2021.

Heather's professional journey encompasses over a decade of experience working with children of all ages. She has particularly contributed her skills as a registered behavior technician for children with autism, providing essential behavioral therapy. Her work in this field not only underscores her commitment to supporting children but also highlights her expertise in addressing their unique needs.

In 2022, Heather and Joel moved to Arkansas with the intention of enjoying more quality time as a family. In July 2024, they happily welcomed their son, Björn, which inspired them to build their dream academy—American Viking Jiu-Jitsu.

Heather's journey illustrates a harmonious balance of diverse passions. Her commitment to both jiu-jitsu and child development showcases a remarkable combination of physical discipline and emotional intelligence. With the founding of American Viking Jiu-Jitsu, Heather and Joel have cultivated an environment where families and individuals of all ages can unite to learn and flourish. The academy is not just a place for physical training; it is a community where values such as respect, perseverance, and camaraderie are cultivated.

Heather's approach to teaching jiu-jitsu is deeply influenced by her background in child development. She emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to explore their abilities and push their limits. Her unique perspective allows her to connect with students on a personal level, inspiring them to achieve their personal best. Joel and Heather’s classes are designed to be engaging and accessible, fostering a love for martial arts that transcends age or experience level.