Stedfast Instructors
Professor Sharon Emde
Black Belt Instructor
Sharon is a Houston native with a background in Kinesiology and Exercise Science and a master’s degree in physical therapy. She found her passion for Brazilian jiu-jitsu later in life, starting with kickboxing and boxing before diving into Jiu-Jitsu at 44, and quickly immersing herself in the sport. Despite facing chronic illnesses and major surgeries along the way, Sharon competed in over 40 IBJJF competitions in 6 years, including several majors, winning numerous titles along the way.
Sharon is a World Champion and 2x silver medalist, 2x Pan Champion and 2x silver medalist, 2x World Champion NOGI and 2x medalist, and NOGI Pan medalist, having one a major tournament at every colored belt. In 2021, she was promoted to black belt at the IBJJF World Masters Championship.
Despite her competitive success, Sharon’s journey has not been without challenges. Her experiences have given her unique insights into modified training and jiu-jitsu-related rehabilitation, which she now shares as an enthusiastic instructor.
Charles Rakoski
Owner & Coach | Stedfast Jiu-Jitsu
Charles Rakoski is the owner and a coach at Stedfast Jiu-Jitsu. A lifelong martial artist, Charles is passionate about helping students build confidence, discipline, resilience, and a strong work ethic through the practice of Jiu-Jitsu.
Holding a Black Belt in Zen Do Kai and a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Charles brings years of martial arts experience to the mats. His coaching philosophy centers on creating a welcoming environment where students of all ages and skill levels can learn, grow, and challenge themselves while developing meaningful relationships within the academy.
Outside of Stedfast, Charles is the founder and CEO of Bearfoot Lifeguard & Pool Management, where he has spent nearly two decades building teams and developing leaders throughout Texas. His experience leading organizations has reinforced his belief that success comes from consistency, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
At Stedfast Jiu-Jitsu, Charles is dedicated to helping students become stronger, more confident versions of themselves while fostering a culture of respect, perseverance, and community both on and off the mats.
Juan Villarreal
Coach
Coach Juan is a Houston native who began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2018. From his very first class, the art became a passion, and he has dedicated himself to continual growth on and off the mats.
Today, Juan holds the rank of brown belt and is an integral part of the Stedfast Jiu-Jitsu coaching team. Juan teaches the 6:00 AM class and serves as an assistant coach in the kids program.
His passion for coaching extends beyond jiu-jitsu. Having played soccer since the age of nine and spent years coaching young athletes, he developed a deep appreciation for teamwork, leadership, and helping others reach their potential.
For Juan, jiu-jitsu is truly a family affair. His 4-year-old is already training on the mats, his wife is a dedicated supporter of the Stedfast community, and his father-in-law has earned the rank of purple belt. The love of combat sports runs deep in the family, as Juan’s grandfather was a luchador in Mexico.
Coach Juan is committed to helping students build confidence, discipline, and resilience while fostering a strong and supportive community both on and off the mats.
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