Dolly Stoner

In the world of Gracie St. George, where commitment and passion are revered, Dolly Stoner stands as a pillar of dedication and resilience. Since stepping onto the mat in June of 2019, Dolly has not only trained with an unwavering consistency—averaging four sessions per week—but she has also risen through the ranks to achieve a one-stripe purple belt, a testament to her skill and perseverance. Her journey, however, does not end there. Dolly has earned the coveted BBS1 stripe and, in January 2024, she graduated from the Instructor Certification Program, becoming the fifth instructor at Gracie St. George.

Dolly’s foray into martial arts began with karate, a discipline where she relished breaking through mental and physical barriers. It was her daughter, Penny, who first introduced her to the Gracie Bullyproof classes, and from there, Dolly’s path took a decisive turn. Realizing the limitations of karate for realistic self-defense for the average woman, she embraced Gracie Combatives and became an official student at Gracie St. George shortly after. The allure of overcoming larger adversaries captivated her, driving her deeper into the world of Jiu-Jitsu.

One of the unique aspects that drew Dolly to Jiu-Jitsu was the structured curriculum of Gracie University, a rarity in the broader BJJ community. Initially skeptical, she found herself profoundly impressed by the comprehensive vision and the high standards set by Ryron and Rener Gracie. This respect for the integrity and excellence of the Gracie’s contribution to martial arts became a cornerstone of her commitment.

Dolly’s connection to the Gracie St. George community is deeply personal. She shares a close bond with Jake’s family and has forged strong, trusting relationships with her training partners. Her family remains her greatest treasure, with her husband, Josh, standing as her unwavering tower of support. His encouragement allows Dolly to dedicate herself fully to both learning and teaching Jiu-Jitsu, balancing her roles as a devoted mother and a passionate martial artist.

Dolly’s journey is not merely about physical prowess; it is also about the profound understanding of the mind-body connection. This holistic approach to Jiu-Jitsu has not only liberated her but has also inspired those around her. In the tapestry of Gracie St. George, Dolly Stoner’s story is one of relentless pursuit, community, and the transformative power of martial arts.