Meet your Coaches

Vanessa embarked on her jiu-jitsu journey in 2013, prompted by her husband's question, "How would you defend yourself?" She didn't have an answer then, but 10 years later, she is now a brown belt and a fierce competitor who has competed at every belt level. Vanessa placed third at NOGI Worlds Master 1 Brown Belt in 2024. Throughout her journey, Vanessa has had two babies and continued training even during her pregnancies. She has consistently placed or won in the tournaments she has entered. Jiu-jitsu has transformed Vanessa’s life, instilling in her a newfound confidence. She loves sharing her jiu-jitsu knowledge and is passionate about the sport. Vanessa is excited to assist her husband as they open their gym and continue to grow in their roles as both competitors and coaches.

Jason started jiu jitsu in 2009 and received his black belt in 2017. His work as an educator for over 15 years has helped inform his coaching style. Jason is one of the toughest training partners on the mat and a true martial artist. He has a contagious sense of humor and leadership that has a positive effect on everyone in the room.

Accomplishments:

2018 – 1st Place - No Gi Pans (Master 3)

2022- 1st Place – No Gi Pans (Master 4)

1988 – 3rd Best in Show – Oakhill Stables Summer Camp Youth Horse Show

Joellen Wilkinson started her jiu jitsu journey in 2011. She earned her brown belt, and enjoys both gi and no gi. She has competition experience in the gi, and has always been drawn to the challenge of jiu jitsu. Joellen has a patient teaching style that emphasizes details and step-by-step learning. She has taught both young people and adults.

Nick started Brazilain Jiu Jitsu in 2008 under Marcello Salazar. Since then, he has trained under Sergio Correa, Diego Gamonal, and Ben Leny. He has competed in Boxing, Muay Thai, and MMA. Nick is a NOGI Pans Gold medalist at purple belt, and a NOGI Worlds Silver medalist at purple belt. Nick won American Nationals, NOGI Pans, NOGI Worlds at Brown Belt in 2024. He is excited to fulfill his role as a coach and competitor in the worlds biggest tournaments. 

Kevin Edgerton

Coach, Brown Belt

Kevin is a retired Special Forces Detachment Commander and Communication Sergeant with a wealth of experience in the military and fitness sectors. He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Licensed Massage Therapist, Kevin also holds numerous prestigious certifications, including Fascial Stretch Therapy Specialist and KinStretch Specialist. His deep commitment to ongoing education is evident through his participation in fitness seminars and his goal of becoming a Level 3 Fascial Stretch Therapist and Selective Functional Movement Assessment certified within the next year. Kevin also holds a Master’s degree in Health and Sports Science from American Military University, graduating with honors. Beyond his professional achievements, Kevin is an active contributor to his community, donating time and expertise to local veterans' charities by providing Fascial Stretch Therapy to severely disabled veterans. He lives in San Antonio, Texas, with his wife Cordelia, a US Army veteran, and their three children. In his free time, Kevin enjoys Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and trains his family and friends in his well-equipped home gym.