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What made you get into martial arts?
I’ve been involved in athletics my whole life, and after high school, I was looking for a new challenge—something that would push me both mentally and physically. I had always been a fan of the UFC and started listening to Sean O’Malley’s podcast, which really sparked my interest in MMA even more. The lifestyle, discipline, and mindset of a fighter really spoke to me. A friend told me about High Altitude Martial Arts, and once I stepped into the gym, I knew it was exactly what I was looking for. I’ve been all-in ever since, with the goal of becoming a professional fighter and fully embracing the lifestyle that comes with it.

Tell us about your journey/background/accomplishments?
I’ve played just about every team sport out there—mainly football and soccer—but it was the more individual sports, like track and field, that made me realize I was drawn to something self-paced and personally driven. The day after I graduated high school, I started training in martial arts and haven’t looked back since. Over time, I’ve competed in more than 20 jiu jitsu matches and taken part in two kickboxing smokers. Each experience has helped me grow as a martial artist, and my plan is to keep competing and building my skills as I work toward my goal of fighting professionally in MMA.

What is your goal as a coach?
My goal as a coach is to help people build strong, healthy, and resilient bodies through martial arts. While not everyone is chasing a professional fighting career, I truly believe martial arts is one of the most effective and empowering ways to get in shape—physically and mentally. It builds discipline, confidence, and a level of fitness that’s hard to match. I’m also studying Exercise Science at MSU Denver, so I like to bring in bits of what I’m learning to support my students with a more well-rounded, science-backed approach to training and performance.

What makes High Altitude Martial Arts special?
High Altitude Martial Arts is truly a hub for martial artists of all levels, backgrounds, and body types. Since the day I started training here, I’ve seen people of all ages and experience levels walk through the doors and find a place where they belong. What makes it even more special is the unique mix of students—from someone stepping onto the mats for the very first time to ranked UFC fighters preparing for their next big fight. No matter where you are in your journey, this gym offers a supportive, high-level environment that helps everyone grow. It’s more than just a place to train—it’s a community that pushes you to become the best version of yourself.