Built by BJJ Practitioners, For BJJ Academies
The story of two brothers-in-law from Melbourne who decided to solve the academy management problem once and for all.
Meet the Founders
United by family, driven by passion for BJJ
Will Davison
Co-Founder & Lead Developer
A passionate software developer with years of experience building scalable web applications. When Jess came to him with the idea for RULLA, Will saw an opportunity to combine his technical expertise with his appreciation for the martial arts community. He took Jess's vision and transformed it into the comprehensive platform that RULLA is today.
"Great software should eliminate friction, not create it. RULLA lets instructors focus on teaching while we handle the complexity behind the scenes."
Jess Smith
Co-Founder & BJJ Black Belt
A BJJ Black Belt and owner of Nakama BJJ in Melbourne. After years of struggling with generic gym management software that didn't understand the nuances of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Jess envisioned a platform built specifically for BJJ academies. His real-world experience running a successful academy shapes every feature in RULLA.
"Every BJJ academy has unique challenges - from tracking belt progressions to managing family accounts. RULLA was born from these real frustrations and needs."
Our Journey
From a problem to a solution that's transforming BJJ academies
The Problem
Jess Smith, running Nakama BJJ in Melbourne, grows frustrated with generic gym software that doesn't understand BJJ's unique requirements.
The Idea Takes Shape
Over family dinner, Jess shares his vision for a BJJ-specific platform with his brother-in-law Will, a software developer. Development begins in earnest.
First Beta Testing
Nakama BJJ becomes the first academy to use RULLA, helping refine features with real-world testing through late 2024.
Expanded Beta Testing
After proving the concept at Nakama, RULLA expands testing to additional academies, incorporating feedback and building a robust platform.
Limited Beta Program
RULLA opens its exclusive beta program to select academies worldwide, offering free access and the opportunity to shape the platform's future.
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we build
Passion for BJJ
Built by practitioners who understand the unique needs of BJJ academies and the importance of preserving the art's traditions while embracing modern tools.
Community First
We believe in empowering instructors to focus on what they do best - teaching and building strong academy communities.
Purpose-Built
Every feature is designed specifically for BJJ academies, not generic gyms. From belt progressions to gi/no-gi tracking, we speak your language.
Continuous Innovation
We're constantly improving RULLA based on feedback from our academy partners, ensuring the platform evolves with your needs.
Our mission is simple: empower BJJ academies with technology that understands their unique needs, so instructors can focus on what matters most - teaching and growing the gentle art.
Will & Jess
Why Rulla?
From Swedish to BJJ
"Rulla" is a Swedish word meaning "roll" - but not just any kind of roll. In Swedish, "rulla" specifically refers to "a list of names, such as pupils in a school."
But here's where it gets perfect: in BJJ, to "roll" means to practice and spar - it's how students train together, apply techniques, and develop their skills on the mats.
This creates a beautiful double meaning that captures exactly what our platform does. Rulla manages your student "rulla" (roll of students) while they "roll"(practice/spar) in your academy.
Meet Our Capybara Mascot
The Perfect BJJ Spirit Animal
Our capybara mascot isn't just cute - it embodies the very essence of what makes a great BJJ practitioner. Capybaras are known for their remarkably calm and peaceful nature, never showing aggression even in challenging situations.
This serene temperament mirrors the mental discipline and composure that BJJ teaches - staying calm under pressure, breathing through difficult positions, and maintaining a clear mind when facing adversity on the mats.
There's also a beautiful connection to BJJ's roots: capybaras are abundant throughout Brazil, the birthplace of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Just as the gentle art spread from Brazil to transform martial arts worldwide, our capybara represents that same Brazilian spirit of community, patience, and peaceful strength.
Like a skilled BJJ practitioner, the capybara shows us that true strength comes from being calm, adaptable, and harmonious with your environment - values that we've built into every aspect of the Rulla platform.
Ready to Join Our Journey?
Be part of the Rulla story and help shape the future of BJJ academy management
Join the exclusive beta program \u2022 Free access during beta \u2022 Exclusive launch pricing