About Us
Learn more about our philosophy, meet our instructors, and our academy.
Our Philosopy
Respect for others and oneself
Discipline in training and in life
Truth and integrity in all actions
At Riverdale Martial Arts, we are dedicated to providing traditional martial arts training while empowering our students with practical, real-world self-defence skills. Through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi grappling, and kickboxing, we teach a balanced system of grappling and striking that prepares individuals for real-life situations—not just sport. Our approach focuses on building confidence, awareness, and the ability to stay composed under pressure, so students can protect themselves and others if ever needed. Grounded in the principles of respect, discipline, and community, our academy is committed to helping each student grow stronger—both physically and mentally.
RMA Training Method
At RMA, our training method is built around developing real-world capability through a structured and progressive approach to martial arts. For adults, we combine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi grappling, and kickboxing to create a complete system that prepares individuals for all phases of a potential confrontation - standing, clinch, and ground. For kids, our focus is on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, building a strong foundation in control, discipline, and confidence in a safe and structured environment. This is not about competition - it’s about capability.
Our women’s-only Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program plays a key role in this system, offering a dedicated space for women to build confidence, learn practical self-defence, and develop control under pressure in a supportive and focused environment. Alongside this, our co-ed adult programs expand skill sets through striking, movement, distance management, and fast-paced grappling that translates directly to real-life situations.
Training at RMA goes beyond techniques. We focus on situational awareness, boundary setting, composure under stress, and the ability to think clearly in challenging moments. Through consistent, structured training, students build discipline, resilience, and confidence - developing not just as martial artists, but as capable individuals prepared for the realities of the world outside the gym.
Bobby Currie - Head Instructor
Born in 1982 and raised in Regent Park, Toronto, Bobby Currie has dedicated his life to martial arts from a young age. He began his journey in 1985 at just 3 years old, training in Karate under Sensei Rick Cameron. By 1990, he had expanded his repertoire to include Judo, training under Sensei Frank Hatashita. As a teenager, Bobby competed for Ajax Budokan in 1997 under the guidance of Senseis William and Kevin Doherty.
In 2006, Bobby started his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training at Toronto BJJ while simultaneously teaching Judo. Two years later, he began training in BJJ and MMA under Professor Jorge Britto and Mauy Thai/MMA under Mauricio Veio.
Instructor Achievements and Credentials
Judo Black Belt
BJJ 2nd Degree Black Belt
2X Canadian Judo Champion
IBJJF Pan-Am Silver Medalist
Military Service
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bobby sought ways to contribute to his community and joined the Canadian Armed Forces - Army. He currently holds the rank of Corporal and serves as an Airborne Rifleman in Recce Platoon with the Queens Own Rifles of Canada. He is also the head coach for the QOR of C Grappling team.
Qualifications
Close Quarter Combat Basic (CQCB)
Basic Parachutist (BPara)
Cold Weather Operator (CWO)
Basic Machine Gun (BMG)
Primary Leadership Qualification (PLQ)
Bobby's extensive experience and diverse training background make him a valuable asset to Riverdale Martial Arts, where he is committed to imparting his knowledge and skills to his students.
The Dojo
We have 750 sqft of mat space, men’s and women’s change rooms and a co-ed bathroom.
