About Evolve Training Center

Coach J's passion for martial arts started early. He stepped onto the judo mat at age 5, spent time in baseball, football, and basketball, then found Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1996 and never looked back. That discovery led him to seek out Rickson Gracie as a mentor, training under him until 2007 and earning his purple belt along the way. In 2004 he earned his judo black belt from Cahill Judo Academy, followed by his BJJ black belt in 2011 from Saulo and Xande Ribeiro. He still maintains a close relationship with Rickson Gracie, who oversees the self-defense program he runs with Coach Jane.

Coach J found success competing in both judo and BJJ, but coaching is where his heart is. The Evolve Culture is his greatest source of pride: a familial atmosphere where students are supported not just by their coaches but by the people training beside them. That commitment to excellence extends to who he brings through the doors. Xande and Saulo 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 all trained at the academy. Coach J keeps growing as a practitioner while giving Evolve and its community his best.

Coach Mark started training in 1993 and rose through the ranks fast, competing as a kickboxer and Muay Thai stylist for organizations including Strikeforce, ISKA, IKKC, and IFCA. He capped his competitive career representing Team USA at the 2004 IFMA World Championships before stepping away from the ring.

With his sights set on becoming a top coach and academy owner, he went on to study Kinesiology and Physical Education at San Francisco State University. Renowned coach Duke Roufus recognized him as a Black Belt in the Roufusport Kickboxing curriculum, which complements the extensive Muay Thai training he received under some of Thailand's top coaches. Coach Mark also serves as the WBC Muay Thai USA West Coast Regional Director, working to support and grow the sport across 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.

Coach Jane began her jiu jitsu journey in 2004, training under her husband, Coach J, a student of Rickson Gracie. She earned her black belt in 2015 from Coach J and Xande Ribeiro under Ribeiro Jiu Jitsu. Along the way she has had the privilege of learning alongside some of the best women in the sport, including Gezary Matuda, Mackenzie Dern, Michelle Nicolini, and Luiza Monteiro, as well as Rafa and Gui Mendes, all of whom helped shape both her game and her system for teaching.

On the competition side, Coach Jane has medaled at events including 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. They continue to bring the program to communities and organizations today, helping others stay 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. That passion is what keeps driving her to make a difference.