"The best coaches are usually former athletes of modest accomplishment. They worked hard with less than perfect genetic abilities and achieved some success through perseverance and acquired skill. They learned how the hard way, and gained the experience necessary to teach others the same things.
If they happen to be articulate individuals, they are able to communicate their experience to others. If they are intelligent, they can continue to analyze that ever-growing data pool that a bunch of novice trainees provides, and obtain new insights into what works and what doesn’t. And if they are the kind of folks who’s egos can remain in check, they stay receptive to learning from other coaches and experienced professionals.
Persons who possess all these traits are exceptional – most coaches are less effective because one or more of these components is lacking." - Mark Rippetoe
I strive to be this exceptional coach.
My knowledge and skills in combat sports covers a wide category of skills including Wrestling, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Boxing, and Kick Boxing, with years of training in each aspect, finally culminating in teaching Mixed Martial arts. Previously, I was the owner and head coach of the highly successful Steel Valley MMA, which produced some of the top ranked amateur MMA fighters in Ohio.
Some of my own personal accomplishments in combat sports include:
- Black belt - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- Black Belt - Judo
- 2007 Next Level Fighting 8 Champion
- 2006 Next Level Fighting 7 Champion
- USA Boxing Coach
- 2007 US Grappling Copa Nova Executive No Gi Heavyweight, 1st Place
- 2007 US Grappling Copa Nova No Gi Advanced Heavyweight, 2nd Place
- 2005 Shufu East Coast Open Champion
- 1998 San Shou Kickboxing U.S. Open Champion
- Collegiate Wrestler (D1 University)
