About Evolve Training Center

Coach J has nurtured an unwavering passion for martial arts since his youth. Commencing his journey in judo at the age of 5, he later explored baseball, football, and basketball. However, the allure of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu captivated him in 1996, prompting him to seek out the revered Rickson Gracie as his mentor. Under Rickson’s guidance until 2007, Coach J achieved the esteemed rank of purple belt. In 2004, Coach J attained a black belt in judo from the Cahill Judo Academy. In 2011, Coach J was honored with a black belt in BJJ from the esteemed Ribiero brothers, Saulo and Xande. Coach J maintains a strong bond with Master Rickson Gracie, who oversees their collaborative self-defense program with Coach Jane. While he achieved success in judo and BJJ tournaments, Coach J's true passion lies in coaching and fostering a close-knit community. The Evolve Culture, where a familial atmosphere prevails, is his greatest source of pride. Not only are students supported by coaches, but also by their peers, creating a helpful environment. Dedicated to excellence, Coach J consistently brings top-tier talent to Evolve. Notable figures such as Xande and Saudi Ribeiro, Rafael Lovato, Justin Flores, Henry Akins, Daniel Cormier, Victor Hugo, Rafa and Gui Mendes, Rener Gracie, Gezary Matuda, Bruno Malfacine, and JT Torres have graced the academy. Coach J continues to evolve as a practitioner while delivering the best to Evolve and its community.

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Coach Mark began his training in 1993. He quickly rose through the ranks, competing as a kickboxer and Muay Thai stylist for organizations including Strikeforce, ISKA, IKKC, and IFCA. Before retiring from competition, he represented Team USA at the 2004 IFMA World Championships. Coach Mark furthered his education at San Francisco State University, majoring in Kinesiology and Physical Education, to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a top coach and academy owner. Renowned Coach Duke Roufus recognized Coach Mark as a Black Belt in the Roufusport Kickboxing curriculum, complementing his extensive Muay Thai training under some of Thailand’s top coaches. In addition to coaching, Coach Mark serves as the WBC Muay Thai USA West Coast Regional Director, helping support and grow the sport throughout the region. Today, his passion is building a strong community where students can thrive while learning the discipline, confidence, and life lessons martial arts has given him.

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Coach Jane began her jiu jitsu journey in 2004 under the tutelage of her husband J. Janero under Rickson Gracie, then received her black belt in 2015 from J. and Xande Ribeiro under Ribeiro Jiu Jitsu. Throughout the years she has had the privilege and opportunity to learn and train with some of the best women in jiu jitsu, including Gezary Matuda, Mackenzie Dern, Michelle Nicolini and Luiza Monteiro, as well as Rafa and Gui Mendes, who have helped develop her game and system for teaching. Coach Jane has participated and won in competitions such the Pan Americans and Master Worlds Championships at Purple, Brown and Black belt. In 2015, she and her husband started teaching women’s self defense through free community workshops called Unleash the Inner Warrior in You. Today they continue to teach at various communities and organizations to help others be aware and prepared. Coach Jane’s purpose is to inspire women to believe in themselves and be the best version of who they are, nothing less. Her passion continues to drive her to make a difference.