Our instructors
Milard Roper
Sensei Milard
At OM BJJ, our philosophy is rooted in respect for the traditions, teachers, and lineages that came before us. Sensei Milard’s martial arts journey reflects that tradition, with a direct lineage to Master Renzo Gracie in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo.
For more than two decades, Sensei Milard has dedicated himself to the study and practice of martial arts. His journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu spans 26 years, during which he has had the privilege of learning from accomplished instructors including Amal Easton, Jay Jack, Joe Scarolla, Nick Serra, and Professor Rich Korfhage.
In 2016, Sensei Milard received his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt from Professor Rich Korfhage, marking an important milestone in a journey that continues to this day.
His martial arts education extends well beyond Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Sensei Milard has studied Judo under Sensei Joe Turchiano since 1999, developing a deep appreciation for the principles of balance, timing, leverage, and technical efficiency that Judo brings to his overall approach to martial arts.
He is also an Associate Instructor in Universal Defense System under Sifu Ralph Mitchell. Earlier in his martial arts journey, he had the opportunity to receive extensive instruction from respected martial artists including Chan Bong and Louie Jack Man.
Sensei Milard’s commitment to learning continues today. He continues to study Doce Pares under Grandmaster John Mac and Yang Family Tai Chi under Jim Uglow, further expanding his understanding of movement, structure, balance, and martial application.
Seamus Roper
Seamus Roper leads the Kids and Teens programs at OM BJJ. Martial arts have been a part of his life for as long as he can remember—he began training practically as soon as he was old enough to walk.
Seamus is a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a Black Belt in Judo under Sensei Joe Turchiano. His years of training in both arts have given him a strong technical foundation and a deep understanding of how martial arts can help young people develop confidence, discipline, resilience, and respect.
What truly sets Seamus apart is his ability to connect with kids. He has a naturally warm and welcoming personality while also possessing the rare ability to command the attention of a room full of 20 young students—a skill we sometimes joke is a martial art and a superpower all its own.
His classes balance serious instruction with an atmosphere where kids feel comfortable learning, working hard, making mistakes, and having fun. Seamus believes martial arts should help children become not only better martial artists, but more confident and capable young people.
Outside the academy, Seamus is a skilled welder and works as a Teaching Assistant at Suffolk BOCES. When he's not teaching, training, or working, you'll often find him pursuing another lifelong passion—fishing.
Sensei Joe Turchiano
9th Degree Black Belt Sensei Joe Turchiano is a highly experienced and knowledgeable Judo instructor, with a passion for teaching and helping students achieve their full potential. Training with Joe offers an opportunity to learn from a seasoned veteran, who has honed his skills through years of competition and training. Whether you're looking to learn self-defense, build confidence, or simply stay in shape, Joe's lessons are designed to help you reach your goals and have fun while doing it.