Black Belt, 1st Degree
Head Coach

With over 28 years of experience in martial arts, Coach Paul Hogan is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, accomplished wrestler, veteran police officer, and defensive tactics instructor.

His extensive background in grappling, combined with real-world law enforcement experience, gives him a unique perspective on both sport and self-defense applications.

Paul’s expertise lies in blending the technical precision of Jiu-Jitsu with the grit and control of wrestling, making his instruction invaluable for competitors, law enforcement professionals, and anyone looking to develop practical self-defense skills.

As a defensive tactics instructor, he is passionate about teaching effective, real-world techniques that emphasize control, efficiency, and safety.

Black Belt

With over 20 years of experience in martial arts, Coach Justin Parks is a seasoned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and former MMA competitor. His journey began with a passion for combat sports, leading him to train, compete, and refine his skills across multiple disciplines.

As a dedicated coach, Justin blends technical expertise with a deep understanding of strategy, helping students of all levels develop their skills, confidence, and mindset for success. His approach emphasizes precision, discipline, and real-world application, whether for competition, self-defense, or personal growth.

Committed to fostering a supportive and high-level training environment, Coach Justin continues to inspire and guide the next generation of martial artists. Whether you’re stepping onto the mats for the first time or looking to sharpen your competitive edge, his experience and mentorship provide the tools needed to excel.

Black Belt, 1st Degree

William Ewers is a Team Sean Hammonds Black Belt under Michael Seals. Will began training in 2011 while he was stationed in California with the United States Marine Corps, and was an Infantryman by trade.

During his tour with the Marines, he competed in multiple BJJ competitions and fought in amateur MMA representing Fight Club 29, the Twenty-Nine Palms Marine Corps Fight Team, amassing a 6-3 record.

After being honorably discharged, he moved to Somerset, KY to co-open Somerset Martial Arts where he gained almost a decade of experience teaching Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, Kickboxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts.

He continued to compete in multiple BJJ competitions and began competing in professional MMA, retiring from competition with a 2-2 professional record. He currently lives in Lexington, KY and works as a Physician Assistant.

Black Belt

With over a decade of dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Professor Christopher Lyon began his jiu-jitsu journey in 2013 and has developed a deeply thoughtful and well-rounded approach to the art.

Christopher is an SBG black belt under Chad Fazenbaker and was one of the founding members of SBG Maryland / BC Jiu Jitsu, playing a key role in building and shaping the academy during its formative years.

Christopher is known for blending the psychological components of training with the physical demands of Jiu-Jitsu, helping students cultivate mental resilience, emotional control, and strategic awareness alongside technical skill.

His teaching philosophy emphasizes self-awareness, problem-solving, and purposeful practice, allowing students to better understand not only how techniques work, but why they work under pressure.

As a professor, Christopher is passionate about guiding students through continuous growth on and off the mats, using Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a vehicle for personal development, confidence, and long-term mastery.

Black Belt

Jeff James is a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Rener and Ryron Gracie. He began training in 2006 and brings nearly two decades of experience to the mats. Jeff spent his formative years—from blue through brown belt—training within the Royce Gracie Network, where he developed a strong foundation in self-defense–focused jiu-jitsu and pressure-tested technique.

Jeff’s teaching expertise includes fundamentals, advanced technique, kids’ classes, and women’s self-defense, allowing him to connect with students of all ages and skill levels. Known for his patient coaching style and emphasis on safety, technical precision, and personal growth, Jeff is dedicated to helping students build confidence, resilience, and skill both on and off the mats.