COACHES

Brendon has spent over 40 years on the mats. He’s a Judo Olympian, the youngest judoka to win the New Zealand Senior Nationals, and has medaled and won many competitions in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo — including his division at the All Japan BJJ Championships. He also spent several years training full-time in Japan.

A former Army serviceman and Devonport local, Brendon brings a calm but structured coaching style to every class. He teaches full-time at both Tu Kaha BJJ and Alive Dojo, holding a 4th-degree black belt in Judo and a BJJ black belt awarded by Pedro Fernandes.

Off the mats, Brendon enjoys time outdoors — valuing nature as balance to the discipline of training.

Bryan is a true legend of the mats. He began training martial arts at age 10 and spent over a decade living, training, and teaching in Japan. He holds a 2nd-degree black belt in Judo from the Kodokan — one of the most prestigious Judo institutions in the world.

In 2005, Bryan was crowned Okinawa Superfight MMA Champion, and he earned his BJJ black belt under Pedro Fernandes. A devoted Devonport dad, Bryan lives by the principles of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo both on and off the mats.

Outside the dojo, Bryan is also a keen musician, bringing creativity and rhythm into all aspects of his life.

Anthony is a Pedro Fernandes black belt with over a decade of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience. Originally from California, he wrestled competitively through high school, giving him a strong base in takedowns and pressure-based grappling.

By day, Anthony is a mortgage broker, but by night he's a no-gi grappling specialist known for his sharp technique, relentless style, and ability to break down complex movements for students of all levels.

A calm, technical coach who leads by example, Anthony brings real-world toughness, deep mat knowledge, and a no-ego vibe to every class.

Tukaha purple belt

Tukaha purple belt

Leon is a BJJ blue belt and Judo green belt who assists with our kids classes. Born in Japan and bilingual in English and Japanese, he brings a calm, approachable energy to the mats that younger students connect with easily.

Leon has been training for years and understands what it’s like to grow up on the mat. He helps create a fun, structured, and supportive learning environment for our younger students — and is a great role model in both attitude and technique.