Our Coaches
John Kutz, Head Coach (Gi, No gi, Kids JJ)
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John Kutz has been training and competing in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and martial arts since 2011 and was promoted to the rank of black belt by his professor Don Whitefield in July of 2022. John has competed in multiple martial arts such as boxing, kickboxing, combat wrestling, and MMA.
John has been coaching since 2015 and loves sharing his passion with people and continues to train, compete and grow in martial arts. John is known for his compassionate leadership skills, attention to detail, and ability to facilitate an inclusive and motivating environment.
John is an active competitor in the grappling world, continuing to challenge himself against world class black belts and constantly growing his jiu jitsu.
He is a devoted coach and cornerman, bringing his lifetime of experience and innovation to every student.
Expect to see John leading gi, no gi and kids classes!
Cholena Horne (Wrestling Coach, Jiu Jitsu Coach)
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Cholena Horne teaches technical classes for all ages, with a passion for making the mats inclusive and welcoming.
She began her grappling journey in wrestling, earning titles at BC Provincials, CAN West, a Jr. Pan Am bronze, and multiple Canadian National medals. She transitioned to Jiu Jitsu and continues to compete internationally—earning medals at IBJJF No-Gi Worlds, ADCC Nationals, reaching the Medusa Combat Jiu Jitsu Worlds semifinals, and capturing titles with promotions such as Battle Grappling, AVA, and Main Character. She is now a brown belt.
Outside the gym, Cholena is a teacher and loves spending time with her cats.
Damon Rowling (Gi Coach)
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Damon began his grappling journey in 2017 under the guidance of coach John Kutz. An integral part of the West Coast crew since day one, Damon has developed a style centered around an impenetrable offensive guard and creative submissions. He has trained both gi and nogi and competed in both. His passion for teaching makes him an attentive and patient instructor for both kids and adults alike.
Joe Robertson (Kids Coach)
Joe is a multi-disciplinary martial artist in jiu jitsu, judo and kickboxing, bringing his athletic and dynamic approach to our mats. He is an active competitor and patient instructor, and loves to support our kid's competition team every chance he gets. We highly recommend having Joe in your corner!​​
Marko Youngston (No Gi Coach)
Marko brings an intelligent and analytical approach to teaching jiu jitsu. Expect to play a variety of technical games with constraints to bring your jiu jitsu to the next level in Marko's classes. ​He has a keen eye for details and is sure to help you advance quickly in the sport! ​
