Born and raised in London, Ohio, I experienced the challenges and joys of growing up on our family farm. My journey in wrestling began in the eighth grade, marked by a setback when I broke my collarbone on the very first day. Against all odds, I found the resilience to return to the sport, and I'm grateful I did because it ignited a passion that still burns within me today.
Over the years, I honed my wrestling skills and became a proficient athlete. Alongside my training, I ventured into coaching, sharing my knowledge and passion for the sport. Following a year in college, I made the decision to join the Marine Corps, temporarily stepping away from wrestling. During this hiatus, I discovered another passion in bodybuilding, training alongside top professionals, including my dear friend John Meadows, known as Mountain Dog, whose recent passing deeply impacted me.
Upon completing my service in the Marine Corps, I returned to Massachusetts and found Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In June 1998, I embarked on my journey at Brazilian Top Team Boston, and over the next decade, I diligently pursued mastery of the art. In July 2008, after years of dedicated work, I achieved the honor of a Black Belt, awarded by Daniel Mirel Gazoni and Joao Amaral. The memory of that day and the immense effort it took to reach that milestone will forever remain etched in my mind.
Now, as a Fourth Degree Black Belt under Anderson Silverio Team Forsa Brazilian Jiu Jitsu I approach Jiu Jitsu with humility and a perpetual thirst for knowledge. Despite being a Black Belt for over 15 years, I recognize that I have merely scratched the surface of this intricate discipline. Each day, I strive to expand my understanding and refine my skills, always seeking to learn something new.
Throughout my journey, I have tested myself against formidable opponents at the highest levels of competition. While victory hasn't always been mine, the pursuit of improvement remains constant. I intend to compete for as long as my body and mind permit, consistently pushing my limits. Equally important to me is imparting my knowledge to my students, nurturing their growth and empowering them to surpass my own achievements.
This is my lifelong commitment—to honor the sport, the art, and the dedication it requires. Together, let us forge ahead, embracing the challenges and celebrating the triumphs that lie ahead.
BJJ Accomplishments:
- Multiple Time Dragon Lairs Champion
- Competitor Invitee, 2007 ADCC North American Trials Cruiserweight
- 1st Place, 2008 Pan American Master 1 Brown Belt Heavyweight
- 3rd Place, 2008 No-Gi Pan American Open Class (First Black Belt Tournament)
- 1st Place, 2009 New York Open Master 1 Open Class
- 2nd Place, 2009 New York Open Master 1 Medium Heavy
- 1st Place, 2010 New York Open Master 1 Heavyweight
- 1st Place, 2011 UFC Expo Master Heavyweight and Open Class
- 3rd Place, 2012 New York Open Master 1 Heavyweight
- 1st Place, 2012 Boston International Open Master 1 Heavyweight and Open Class
- 1st Place, 2013 New York Summer International Open Master 1 Heavyweight and Open Class
- 2nd Place, 2013 Boston Summer International Master 1 Open Heavyweight
- 3rd Place, 2013 Boston Summer International Open Master 1 (Open Class)
- 1st Place, 2013 Boston Grapplers Quest Masters Heavyweight and Open Class
- 2nd Place, 2018 Pan IBJJF Jiu Jitsu No Gi Super Heavyweight
- 3rd Place, 2023 IBJJF Master Worlds, Master 4 Gi Heavyweight
- 3rd Place, 2023 IBJJF Master Worlds NO Gi, Master 4 NO GI Heavyweight
Wrestling Coaching Experience:
- 2008: Coached Brickhouse Wrestling
- 2012: Assistant Coach, Andover High School Wrestling
- 2013-15: Head Coach, Andover High School Wrestling
- 2016: Assistant Coach, Billerica High School Wrestling
- 2017-21: Assistant Coach, Shawsheen Valley Technical High School Wrestling