Newmarket BJJ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo Instructors

Meet our dedicated team of Instructors

Meet our dedicated team of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo instructors

At Newmarket BJJ Academy, we take pride in offering world-class instruction from a team of passionate, experienced, and supportive coaches. Our instructors bring decades of combined training, competition, and teaching experience in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Judo. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build confidence, a mom looking to learn self-defence or to bring her kids to learn, a hobbyist hoping to improve your skills, or an advanced student training for competition, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Leading our academy is Professor Thiago Bastos Barbosa, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and accomplished competitor. Born and raised in Brazil, Professor Thiago carries forward a strong lineage and traditional values rooted in discipline, respect, and technical excellence. His teaching style is welcoming, detailed, and encouraging—making every student feel like part of the family.

Supporting Professor Thiago are our specialized instructors in both adult and kids programs. Each coach brings a unique background, from international Judo experience to championship-level BJJ training. Their combined knowledge ensures well-rounded development in self-defense, ground control, and takedown strategies. Our team is also highly trained in coaching children, with a focus on building focus, discipline, and resilience in a fun and safe environment.

We believe that the strength of our academy lies in our people. That’s why we’ve assembled a team of instructors who are not only skilled athletes, but also exceptional mentors and role models. They are committed to helping students of all ages and abilities thrive—on and off the mats.

Come train with us and experience expert instruction in a supportive, inclusive atmosphere. Whether you’re on day one or year ten, our instructors are here to help you grow.

Brazilian jiu jitsu Instructor Thiago Barbosa

Thiago Bastos Barbosa

Head Professor

A 4th Degree Black Belt, Thiago Bastos Barbosa is a passionate Brazilian jiu-jitsu expert with an impressive 27-year journey in the sport. As a professional athlete, he has made his mark on both national and international stages, showcasing his skills and dedication. Beyond competition, jiu-jitsu is Thiago's true passion, motivating him to share his wealth of knowledge with fellow enthusiasts.

Jason Nicevski

Instructor

A Black belt under Thiago Barbosa, Jay started training jiu-jitsu in 2014. Since the beginning, Jay has competed in Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai as well as MMA. Jiu-jitsu has given a lot to Jay and he now shares his knowledge. Teaching is one of Jay’s passions; turning his favourite hobby into a career… Ossss!

Kevin Ban

Judo & Wrestling Instructor

Sensei Kevin has been training in martial arts for over 34 years. He holds a 2nd degree Black Belt in Judo and regularly competes in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He is a former college wrestler and is a trained NCCP coach in judo and wrestling. He has coached wrestlers and judoka to provincial and national medals.

Aki

Youth Competition Instructor

Introducing Aki, our newest addition to the Jiu Jitsu Kids competition coaching team! With a brown belt and over a decade of training experience, Aki brings unparalleled expertise to our mats. His dedication and skill have propelled him to rank in the top 5 across Canada in his weight and age category, showcasing his remarkable talent and dedication. With a wealth of competition experience under his belt, Aki is poised to guide young practitioners towards success, imparting not only technical proficiency but also a deep love for the art of Jiu Jitsu.

Francis Sun

Youth/Teens Instructor

Francis Sun is a Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Brown Belt under Thiago Barbosa at NewmarketBJJ. His Jiu-jitsu journey began back in 2013 training under Jonny "Rambo" Stephan where he received his Blue Belt in 2014. Later training under Jonny and Thiago he received his Purple Belt in 2019 and promoted to Brown Belt in 2022. He is currently an instructor for the Kid's Program as well as White Belt Fundamentals at NewmarketBJJ.

Joe Manche

No-Gi Instructor

My jiu-jitsu journey started in 2013 when my best friend dragged me to my first class. Unfortunately, in my first roll, a knee bar sent me to the sidelines and a few weeks of recovery. I had no plans of returning. At the time, I was working as a personal trainer at Goodlife and really not enjoying it. I knew the jiu-jitsu gym had a fitness studio, so I asked the owner if I could train my clients there. This is where my love of jiu-jitsu started. I eat, sleep, and dream jiu-jitsu and it's become my second home. My favourite pastime is researching and studying, and I have developed a strong passion for no-gi jiu-jitsu.

Tyrone Kuronen

Kids/Youth Assistant Instructor

Tyrone Kuronen is a brown belt under Professor Thiago Barbosa and has been training in bjj since 2013. Tyrone has a strong focus on fundamentals of bjj and self defence aspects. He also enjoys sport bjj as well and competes from time to time. Tyrone is a life long practicioner of martial arts for 30 years. He coaches kids classes as well as adults. He is the proud Father of 4 kids and his Wife Sylvie is also is an avid bjj practioner and coaches kids classes. He has also been teaching defensive tactics and physical skills in a professional capacity certified through the Provincial Government for 10 years within his career.

Peter Thompson

Instructor

Peter Thompson is a brown belt under Professor Thiago Barbosa and has been training in BJJ since 2018. He has been an active competitor since starting his jiu-jitsu journey and places a heavy emphasis on developing solid fundamental skills when instructing. Peter has been training in various martial arts for over 20 years and currently teaches defensive tactics to active law enforcement personnel. Peter is passionate about physical fitness and is a strong believer in the power of jiu-jitsu. Peter currently coaches the beginner/fundamental classes at Newmarket BJJ.

Zack Sarantos

Instructor

Zack is a purple belt and has been training for 9 years. Over the years, Zack has competed in over 10 tournaments and has placed within the top 3 in the majority of them. All of his victories were by submission. Zack is also a doting father to his young son. He enjoys using his free time to be present with his family.

Sylvie Kuronen

Kids 4-6 years old Instructor

Sylvie Kuronen is a purple belt under Professor Thiago Barbosa and has been training in BJJ consistently since 2019. With a background in childcare and 4 children of her own, she loves to teach the little ninjas kids aged 4 to 6 years old, where her expertise in instructing children shines. Sylvie is also a coach/mentor within the women's program, where she motivates women of all ages to live the BJJ lifestyle that incorporates wellness and physical self-defence skills.

Mack Ketchell

Youth & Teens No-Gi Instructor

I have been training jiu jitsu since 2020, under the expert instruction of Thiago Barbosa. As an active competitor in both gi and no-gi, jiu jitsu keeps me in shape and fuels my competitive spirit. Beyond that, it provides an opportunity to be part of a supportive team and community. In my classes, I strive to create fun and engaging experiences for kids, helping them develop physical skills while fostering confidence and resilience through jiu jitsu.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo Instructors

David Arevalo

Youth No-Gi Instructor

I started training in martial arts in 2015 and quickly discovered that my greatest passion was Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As an instructor, my goal is to always provide the same friendly and enthusiastic environment that welcomed me when I took my first class. Whether I'm teaching beginners the fundamentals of grappling or helping experienced competitors perform at their best, I'm always happy to help.

Mallory Sofianos

Kids 4-6 years old Instructor

Mallory began jiujitsu in 2023 with what began as a single step onto the mats and has evolved into what has become a journey of discovery, learning, and self-mastery. Fueled by her desire to inspire the next generation, and to give back to NBJJ, Mallory transitioned into the role of assistant coach, focusing her attention on the youngest members of the jiu-jitsu community. As an assistant coach, Mallory brings boundless energy, patience, and enthusiasm to each training session. Through playful yet purposeful instruction, she assists in creating a supportive environment where young minds can thrive. With her guidance, they learn not only the art of jiu-jitsu but also resilience, confidence in their abilities, and the importance of teamwork and camaraderie. Mallory continues to embrace the art of jiujitsu with dedication and determination, eager to explore its boundless intricacies and impart its invaluable lessons to others.