BAYSIDE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU
INSTRUCTOR
Peter Polygenis earned his black belt in 2010 and now holds the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt, with over 29 years of experience on the mats.
He began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1996 under Australia’s BJJ pioneer, Peter de Been, and first started teaching just a year later. Since then, Peter has coached students of all ages and experience levels - from complete beginners to accomplished competitors.
Known for his technical precision, personal approach, and community focus, Peter’s teaching philosophy is built on respect, inclusiveness, and helping each student reach their full potential.
COACH AND MENTOR
Peter has guided numerous men, women, and children to success in State, National, and Pan Pacific Championships. He’s not only a seasoned competitor - he’s a coach who leads by example, building a club culture based on growth, discipline, and connection. He is a regular fixture in his students' corners at almost all local competitions, lending his support whenever he can.
Peter has actively competed for over many years across multiple weight divisions and age brackets, earning a long list of medals at State, National, and Pan Pacific competitions.
Competition Highlights:
1998 Victorian Championship – Gold (61–67kg)
1998 Victorian Championship – Silver (Absolute)
1999 Victorian Championship – Silver (61–67kg)
2001 Victorian Championship – Silver (85–91kg)
2001 Pan Pacific Championship – Silver (91–97kg)
2002 Victorian Championship – Gold (91kg+)
2002 Pan Pacific Championship – Gold (91–97kg)
2002 Pan Pacific Championship – Gold (Absolute)
2003 NSW Circuit – First Round Gold (Absolute)
2003 NSW Circuit – First Round Gold (85kg+)
2003 NSW Circuit – Joint Champion (Absolute)
2008 Pan Pacific Championship – Gold (91–97kg)
2013 Victorian Championship – Silver (91–97kg)
2016 National Championship – Gold (Masters 2, 91–97kg)
2016 National Championship – Gold (Masters 2, Absolute)
2016 #3 Ranked Australian (Male Black Belt, Masters Gi)
PETER'S LINEAGE
Carlos Gracie Snr. ➜ Carlos Gracie Jr. ➜ Peter de Been ➜ Peter Polygenis
Bayside BJJ head coach Peter Polygenis joins the Roll or Die podcast to share his journey. Hear how he’s built a positive, long-lasting BJJ community.
▶️ Watch the episode below.