Certifications
- B.S. in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management from Penn State University
- M.A. in English: Creative Writing from West Chester university.
- ACSM Certified Personal Trainer
- ACE Certified Group Exercise Instructor
- Purple belt in BJJ
- Gold in NAGA, purple belt division 149.
Biography
BACKGROUND
I originally started training martial arts by picking up Krav Maga lessons, as I was about to move downtown and wanted to know how to defend myself. They also offered jiu jitsu and muay thai at this school, so I quickly switched over to that after watching some classes. I got hooked once I learned how to hit the heavy bag – that was such a thrill. Once I learned my first submission, wthe Americana, I was hooked.
I have really come to embrace all aspects of grappling, and strive to improve all areas of my game. I still like to approach the game as a newcomer, to keep myself grounded and approach every technique, new and old, with the openness of a beginner. My aspirations are to just keep getting better and to win local competitions here and there. I have also come to embrace the role of teaching. With my prior experience with fitness coaching, it has become such a natural fit. I love watching the students develop as martial artists.
FAVORITE TECHNIQUE
Gift wrap to back take to rear-naked choke. Or any butterfly guard sweep!
ADVICE TO NEW STUDENTS
Try your hardest to show up and train as often as possible, no matter the excuse. You don’t always have to be mentally present to train, but you do have to be physically present!