MEET THE INSTRUCTORS

Mike Nasu, based in Squamish, B.C., is a dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu trainer at our facility. With his deep understanding of the art and a passion for teaching, Mike has earned a reputation for excellence. His expertise and patient approach make him an invaluable mentor to both new and experienced practitioners. Mike’s commitment to the sport and his students is evident in every class he leads, fostering a strong, supportive community within our gym.

Matt Parker (Viking) is a dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and a high-level purple belt with a deep passion for the art of Jiu-Jitsu. Known for his kind and encouraging coaching style, Matt brings a wealth of experience and a genuine love for the sport to Mountain Jiu Jitsu. His commitment to the growth and success of his students is evident in every class he leads. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grappler, Matt’s patient guidance and expert knowledge will help you elevate your skills and deepen your understanding of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Join Matt at Mountain Jiu Jitsu and experience the difference of learning from a coach who truly cares about your journey on the mat.

Johnny Thomaidis is a highly respected Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and instructor at our Squamish school. Known for his exceptional skills and comprehensive knowledge of the sport, Johnny brings a wealth of experience to his teaching. His dedication to Jiu-Jitsu and his students shines through in every class, inspiring others to reach their full potential. Johnny’s passion for the art and commitment to excellence make him an integral part of our training community.

Neil McWatt has dedicated many years to mastering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, specializing in Gi training with a unique focus on wrist locks and unconventional techniques. His deep knowledge and innovative approach have earned him a reputation for excellence within the BJJ community. Loved and respected at our academy, Neil’s teaching style combines technical precision with a passion for the art, making him an invaluable mentor to students of all levels.

Norman Dacanay has practiced Jiu Jitsu for well over a decade and currently holds a brown belt. He has enjoyed the physical, technical, and mental challenges the sport has offered. His martial arts journey has allowed him to train with some of the most respected names in jiu jutsu and to academies across the globe. Today, his passion lies in introducing beginners of all ages to the art, focusing on teaching the fundamentals and instilling the techniques necessary for lifelong practice.

David Dorfman (Dave) is a high-level purple belt with a lifelong dedication to grappling, having started training as a young boy. He is not only a skilled Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner but also extremely proficient in Judo, often teaching takedowns with unmatched expertise. His exceptional grappling abilities and deep understanding of the art make him a formidable asset to our gym, inspiring and elevating everyone around him.

We are excited to welcome Jack Miller to the Mountain Jiu-Jitsu Squamish team! Jack moved to Canada from New York City in 2019 and brings with him an impressive blend of academic and grappling experience. By day, Jack is a dedicated psychologist, and by night, he is a passionate Jiu-Jitsu enthusiast. Having trained at the renowned blue-basement at Renzo Gracie's in New York, Jack also holds a 10th Planet Black Belt. He offers a unique, ecological teaching style that makes understanding this ever-evolving martial art easier for everyone. We're thrilled to have Jack join our team and look forward to the knowledge and passion he'll bring to our gym!