At Gracie Barra Western Washington, we are immensely proud of our passionate and committed coaching team. Covering our locations in Tacoma, Renton, and Marysville, these experienced martial artists offer exceptional guidance in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai. dedication goes beyond their expertise, as they genuinely care about helping each student reach their personal goals, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner By fostering an atmosphere of technique, discipline, and respect, our coaches ensure a nurturing space where every student can flourish. Come and feel the difference for yourself today!
Tacoma, Washington Coaches
Coach Nikki Wheaton
Coach Nikki Wheaton began her journey at Gracie Barra Tacoma in 2019, inspired by her three sons, who were already training. Professor Tunz encouraged her to join them, and after attending her first women’s class, she was hooked and knew jiu-jitsu would become a significant part of her life. Coach Nikki has been honing her skills under the guidance of Professor Josh Calvo for the past four years. She earned her purple belt a year ago and regularly competes to further her understanding, crediting her achievements to her incredible training partners.
Today, Coach Nikki proudly assists with classes for tiny champs, little champs, juniors, teens, and competitors. Coaching is an honor for her, driven by her deep love for jiu-jitsu and the supportive family she’s found within the Gracie Barra community.Her advice for newcomers? “Train consistently, ask questions, stay humble, observe, learn, and don’t be afraid to tap.”
Nikki Wheaton
Coach Matt Hemming
Coach Matt joined Gracie Barra Tacoma after nearly two years of driving by the school every day, curiosity finally leading him to step inside and give a class a try. He’s now been training consistently for three years, coming up on his anniversary this October. He earned his purple belt under Professor Josh Calvo and even took home a tournament win as a blue belt. A fun highlight of his journey? He proposed to his wife when she earned one of her stripes.
Coach Matt leads the 6:30 am classes on Mondays and Wednesdays. His love for jiu-jitsu and desire to support teammates with morning-only availability motivated him to start coaching, giving everyone more chances to grow and learn. His advice to students: “Your journey is unique to you. Set clear, realistic goals you can measure. Building skill is like filling a bucket, one drop at a time.”
Matt Hemming
Professor Abel Correa
Professor Abel began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) journey in Tacoma, Washington, back in 2010. A few years into training, he joined Gracie Barra in 2013, where he continued to deepen his understanding and skill in BJJ. Over the years, he has competed across the Pacific Northwest at every belt level, gaining invaluable experience and even serving as a referee at numerous regional tournaments.
In 2019, his dedication was rewarded when Professor Josh Calvo awarded him his black belt, making him the first student to receive this honor under Professor Calvo. Since reaching purple belt, Professor Abel has consistently taught BJJ, helping students develop and embrace the sport. While his path has had its share of challenges, Professor Abel’s resilience and commitment have carried him through, cementing his place as a respected figure in the Pacific Northwest BJJ community and beyond. His passion for BJJ shines through his teaching, inspiring others on their own journeys.
Abel Correa
Coach Jesse “Sus” San Agustin
Coach Jesse S. began his jiu-jitsu journey at Gracie Barra Federal Way, initially stepping onto the mats to support his daughter in her training. Wanting to understand the techniques and guide her effectively, he took up jiu-jitsu himself. Now, after eight years of dedication, Coach Jesse has earned his Brown Belt. Through his training, he’s gained discipline and personal growth, which he considers his greatest achievements. Driven by a love for the art, he now enjoys sharing his knowledge with students of all ages, helping them discover their potential on the mats.
Jesse “Sus” San Agustin
Coach Mike Higa
Coach Mike’s jiu-jitsu journey started back in 2004 when, at just 14, he became captivated by the UFC—especially the epic Chuck Liddell vs. Tito Ortiz fight. Although jiu-jitsu was still emerging on his home island of Oahu, he found a local gym just 20 minutes away. Training under a black belt who shared his stature and provided a welcoming, positive environment set the stage for his lifelong passion for jiu-jitsu.With 19 years of training experience, Coach Mike has reached his Brown Belt and competed in numerous events, earning awards along the way:
- 3rd place, Purple Belt – Revolution, WA, 2021
- 1st place, Blue Belt – NAGA, HI, 2013
- 2nd place, White Belt – NAGA, HI, 2012
- 3rd place, White Belt – NAGA, HI, 2011
Today, Coach Mike primarily works with the Little Champs (ages 5–8), but he also assists with the Juniors and Teens (ages 9–15) and adult classes. His favorite part of coaching is sharing his unique perspective on the art of jiu-jitsu.
Coach Mike’s advice? “Jiu-jitsu is a marathon, not a sprint. Enjoy the journey, stay confident, and always stay humble.”s.
Mike Higa
Professor Sean Flaherty
Meet Professor Sean, a multi-faceted martial artist whose journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began in 1995. Beyond his achievements on the mats, he brings unique expertise as both a Doctor of Chiropractic and a former national champion in rugby. His path to the coveted black belt, which he earned at age 52, demonstrates that dedication and persistence triumph over time. Throughout his journey, balancing professional education and various commitments, he maintained his connection to BJJ, developing a profound appreciation for the art’s rich heritage and its pioneers – both past and present.
As an instructor, Professor Sean’s passion lies in showing students how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s practical self-defense principles can empower practitioners from all walks of life. His deep respect for the art’s traditions, combined with his diverse background in healthcare and competitive sports, creates a unique teaching perspective that emphasizes both the technical and practical applications of BJJ. His journey exemplifies that martial arts excellence knows no age limits and that true mastery comes through unwavering dedication and continuous learning.
Sean Flaherty
Professor Josh Calvo
Professor Josh Calvo brings world-class expertise to Gracie Barra Tacoma as a 2nd-degree black belt under Professor Rodrigo Lopes. Since opening our doors in 2017, his leadership as head instructor has set the standard for excellence in martial arts training. As an active professional MMA fighter with a remarkable 10-4 record, including victories over UFC veterans in international competition, Professor Josh brings real-world combat experience to every class.
Competition Achievements:
- Professional MMA Fighter (10-4 Record)
- Pacific Xtreme Combat Title Contender
- Portland Open Super Fight Champion
- Chael Sonnen’s Submission Underground Champion
- Multiple Fight 2 Win Competitor
- Gold Medalist: 2016 CBJJF Vancouver Open (Black Belt)
- 2x Bronze Medalist: IBJJF Seattle Open (Black Belt)
- Multiple Gold Medals: Seattle’s Revolution (Black Belt)
- Silver Medalist: IBJJF Portland Open (Black Belt)
Leadership & Innovation Professor Josh’s dedication to his students extends beyond the mat. During the challenges of the pandemic, he partnered with Professor Tunz to pioneer online training programs, ensuring our community remained strong and connected. His commitment to continuously improving his own skills through active competition, while nurturing the growth of others, makes him one of the region’s most sought-after instructors. At GB Tacoma, he focuses on building not just skilled practitioners, but a thriving team united in the pursuit of excellence. Join us at Gracie Barra Tacoma and train under one of the Pacific Northwest’s most accomplished martial artists!”
Josh Calvo
Coach Jesse Brodt
Three years ago, Julie began her Jiu-Jitsu journey with a simple goal: to inspire her daughter’s continued training. What started as a supportive parent’s decision transformed into a personal passion that challenged and rewarded her both mentally and physically. Today, she proudly holds a blue belt under Professor Josh Calvo, marking significant milestones in her own martial arts development.
From Student to Coach When Professor Tunz recognized the need for female leadership in the kids’ program, he invited Julie to join the coaching team. Though initially hesitant about the time commitment, she discovered an unexpected calling. Working with young students, particularly female practitioners, has become one of her greatest joys. Julie finds herself learning as much from her students as they learn from her, watching with pride as they grow not just in technique, but in confidence and character. Philosophy & Inspiration Julie’s greatest achievement isn’t found in medals or promotions, but in her unwavering commitment to showing up – a rare quality in a demanding sport where many begin but few persist. Her message to students embodies this same spirit: “Never quit. You won’t always be the best, you’ll experience both victories and defeats, and yes, you’ll face discouragement. But keep showing up. These challenges are essential parts of your spiritual and mental growth in Jiu-Jitsu.”
Jesse Brodt
Professor Waldron “Tunz” Ngotel
Drawing inspiration from martial arts legends like Enson Inoue, Tetsuji Kato, and Cuki Alvarez, Professor Tunz began his remarkable journey in the Northern Mariana Islands of Saipan. His training philosophy is deeply rooted in the warrior spirit of the PureBreed Trench Tech lifestyle. With 18 years of dedicated practice culminating in his recent black belt promotion, Professor Tunz brings both experience and tradition to the mats.
Leadership & Legacy As the founding head instructor of Gracie Barra Tacoma’s youth programs (Tiny Champs and Little Champs), Professor Tunz has dedicated himself to nurturing the next generation of martial artists. His teaching mission extends beyond techniques – he strives to develop confident, respectful individuals who can apply Jiu-Jitsu’s principles both on and off the mats. His goal is clear: to help create a future generation that surpasses our present achievements.
Teaching Philosophy Professor Tunz lives by a profound principle that he shares with all his students: “Remember it’s not a race, it’s a journey. It’s best to know Jiu-Jitsu and not use it rather than use it and not know it.” This wisdom emphasizes the importance of thorough understanding and patient development over rapid advancement.
Waldron “Tunz” Ngotel
Renton, Washington Coaches
Coach Shannon Higgasson
DA Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Rodrigo Lopes, Coach Shannon brings a decade of dedicated training and competitive excellence to the mats. His impressive competition record showcases his commitment to constant growth and technical mastery in the sport.
Competition Achievements:
- Multiple Gold Medals: Revolution Tournament
- Fight to Win Champion
- Multiple G-SUB-X Friday Night Bouts Champion
- 2x Gold Medalist: IBJJF Seattle Open
- Pan American Championships:
- Silver Medalist (Weight Division)
- Bronze Medalist (Absolute Division)
Beyond the Mats Coach Shannon’s success extends beyond martial arts. As a construction company owner, he takes pride in helping others build their dream homes while fostering strong team relationships. His approach to business mirrors his dedication to Jiu-Jitsu: discipline, hard work, and unwavering commitment. Above all, Shannon values his role as a devoted husband and father, bringing the same passion and dedication to his family life as he does to his professional endeavors.
Coach S. Higgasson & Family