I’m a 46 year old husband and father of three kids who keep me busy year round. I’ve spent the last 10 years coaching soccer, softball, basketball and baseball. I love every minute of it. When I’m not running around with the kids, I work as a physical therapist. I’m one of the lucky people who love their job because it gives me a chance to help people and assist them in living their best life. In my free time, I try to fit in as many hobbies as I can. I love to kayak, hunt, work out, read and just generally challenge myself. This is where Jiu Jitsu comes in. I had been toying with the idea of starting for years and in late 2024 I finally took the plunge.

My experience at the Mat Factory has been top notch. The combination of instructors (Gina and Matt) has provided a mix of technical and fundamental styles that make it easy to learn and grow within the sport. Everyone at the gym has been welcoming and willing to help me as I’m learning basic techniques and positions. I’ve yet to have a class that I didn’t walk away from feeling like I’ve learned or accomplished something.

I think that I love jiu jitsu so much because it mimics life in so many ways. It is a series of small challenges that you must conquer in order to succeed. You’re going to get knocked down, it is up to you to get back up. You have to learn to control yourself before you can start controlling someone else. And lastly, it’s never easy; you better be up for the challenge!