The Refuge Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy maintains a staff of highly-skilled, thoroughly educated instructors to give you and your family the very best in martial arts education. Our staff is committed to providing high quality instruction and an overall positive experience.
Read more about our awesome instructors and staff below.
Coach Josh
Owner & Head Instructor
Black Belt
Coach Josh has been training in BJJ since 2007 and is a highly accomplished competitor. Josh hopes to share his knowledge and create future world champions.
Coach Ryan
Instructor
Black Belt
Coach Ryan loves to share his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu knowledge. Ryan dedicates his time to mentorship programs where he comes alongside young men to provide them leadership and guidance.
Coach Corey
Youth Instructor
Black Belt
Coach Corey has been training BJJ since 2011. He has competed at all ranks and also enjoys coaching his son's football team.
Coach Kanani
Assistant Youth Instructor
Brown Belt
Coach Kanani has been training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since 2011 and got her start in martial arts by training in Shotokan Karate. Kanani has a passion for instructing kids.
Coach Swee'Pea
Assistant Youth Instructor
Brown Belt
Coach Swee'Pea is a United States Army Veteran and brown belt under Professor Josh Guerra. He is an active competitor and was the #1 ranked purple belt in Arizona before being promoted to brown belt. Coach Swee'Pea has a passion for helping others become better versions of themselves through Jiu-Jitsu!
Coach Daniel
Assistant Youth Instructor
Purple Belt
Coach Daniel started his Jiu Jitsu journey right here at Refuge. He loves helping coach the kids classes where he has three sons that train
Coach Yin
Assistant Youth Instructor
Blue Belt
Coach Yin has over 6 years of training and has competed in over 30 tournaments around the US. He holds multiple titles the most recent is IBJJF Blue Belt Worlds Champion
Coach Jessica
Assistant Youth Instructor
Blue Belt
Coach Jessica has been training BJJ for 5 years and is an IBJJF Kids Pan and American National Champion. She is an all-district wrestling champ and has a passion for helping other young girls achieve their goals.
Coach Emma
Assistant Youth Instructor
Blue Belt
Coach Emma is a blue blue belt under Professor Josh Josh Guerra. She is an active competitor and is the #1 ranked female blue belt in Arizona. She enjoys coaching and sharing her knowledge with our youth students
Mr. Nathan
Front Office
Mr. Nathan supports the front office administration. Being diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, he is determined to spread the message of autism awareness and be a positive role model for others.
