Meet the Coaches
Skilled, experienced, and all-in, the team that builds fighters, sharpens skills, and pushes you past limits.
Tim Welch – Head Coach
Born in Great Falls, MT, Tim Welch started wrestling in 2004 and found Jiu-Jitsu and MMA soon after. He went 9-1 as an amateur and 14-6 as a pro, training under top coaches like John Crouch and Greg Jackson.
In 2018, he earned his Black Belt under world champion Augusto “Tanquinho” Mendes and became the youngest coach to lead a UFC champion—“Suga” Sean O’Malley. Tim now coaches top fighters and shares his passion for martial arts, health, and growth.
Drakkar Klose- MMA / STRIKING
Born in South Haven, Michigan, Drakkar Klose is an active UFC lightweight with a 16-3 record and a recent win over Edson Barboza at UFC 319. Known for his power, precision, and composure under pressure, he continues to compete at the highest level of the sport.
As both a fighter and coach at Red Hawk Academy, Drakkar brings elite experience straight from the Octagon to the mats—helping athletes sharpen their technique, mindset, and confidence every step of the way.
Ezra Elliott – BJJ: NO-GI
Born in Illinois, Ezra Elliott is a rising force in MMA and Jiu-Jitsu. Crowned Champion of the 2023 ADCC AZ Open, he’s quickly making a name for himself on and off the mats.
With an undefeated 5-0 professional record and a focus on No-Gi grappling, Ezra brings intensity, precision, and a championship mindset to every session. On track to become the next UFC champion, he’s dedicated to helping others push their limits and grow as fighters.
Garrett Kilpatrick – BJJ: NO-GI
Born in Oklahoma, Garrett Kilpatrick is a dedicated No-Gi competitor and coach who competes at an elite level. Currently a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he’s an IBJJF No-Gi World Medalist and 2025 ADCC US Open Champion in Oklahoma City, also earning double gold at the IBJJF Phoenix Open.
Garrett’s experience training with respected teams like The Forge BJJ, Soul Fighters BJJ, and Red Hawk Academy has shaped his sharp technical style and competitive mindset. At Red Hawk Academy, he leads No-Gi classes and offers private lessons—sharing proven strategies from years on the mats.
Click Here to Book Your Private Lesson with Garrett!
($40 solo or $50 for two people).
John Randel – BJJ / WRESTLING
Born and raised with a deep passion for martial arts, John Randel is an active Jiu-Jitsu competitor with over 30 matches and a gold medal finish at the IBJJF San Diego Spring 2025. His dedication to constant growth shows both on and off the mats, where he continues to refine his skills and mindset.
At Red Hawk Academy, John focuses on helping others progress in their own Jiu-Jitsu journeys. Through his experience and genuine love for the sport, he builds confidence, technique, and community with every class he teaches.
Cortney Casey – MMA / STRIKING
Born in Arizona, Cortney “Cast Iron” Casey transitioned from soccer to MMA, quickly earning a reputation for her toughness and striking ability. She’s competed in the UFC’s Flyweight division against some of the best in the world.
With a well-rounded skill set and years of experience, Cortney now coaches and trains fighters, sharing her passion for MMA and striking while helping others grow stronger and more confident.
Jameea Gunn – Head Kids Coach
Jameea Gunn brings warmth, patience, and passion to Red Hawk’s youth program. As Head Kids Coach, she focuses on helping young students build confidence, respect, and discipline through martial arts. With a caring approach and strong leadership, Jameea creates a fun and supportive environment where every child can grow — not just as an athlete, but as a person.
Ryan Elgarico Jr. – Kids BJJ Coach/Adult BJJ
Ryan Elgarico Jr. is a dedicated Kids and Adult BJJ Coach who brings focus, patience, and technical skill to every class. With a strong background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he’s passionate about helping students of all ages build confidence, discipline, and a love for the art. Ryan’s calm and encouraging teaching style creates an environment where beginners feel supported and experienced students stay challenged — helping everyone on the mats reach their full potential.
Mark Martin – Wrestling/MMA
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Mark Martin is a driven Wrestling and MMA Coach known for his intensity, focus, and dedication to his students. With a strong wrestling background and years of competitive experience, Mark helps athletes develop the mindset and skills needed to succeed at every level. His coaching blends technique, discipline, and mental toughness — pushing students to improve both on the mats and in life. Passionate about growth and hard work, Mark leads by example, inspiring those he trains to chase excellence every day.
Joseph Perez – Kick Boxing
Born and raised in Glendale, Arizona, Joseph Perez is an active MMA fighter and dedicated coach who brings real fight experience to every class. With a strong background in striking and conditioning, he focuses on helping students sharpen their technique, discipline, and confidence. Known for his energy and attention to detail, Joseph creates an environment where athletes are challenged to grow, stay humble, and push their limits — both in training and in life.
Mike Lavera – Muay Thai
Mike Lavera is a passionate Muay Thai Coach known for his precision, energy, and attention to detail. With years of experience both training and coaching, Mike brings authentic Muay Thai technique and discipline to every session. His teaching focuses on building strong fundamentals, confidence, and endurance while helping students push past limits. Dedicated to growth and respect for the art, Mike creates an environment where every athlete can sharpen their skills and find their own rhythm in Muay Thai.
What Our Coaches Offer
Train with the Best
The Red Hawk Team brings real fight experience and proven expertise in MMA, Striking, Jiu-Jitsu (Gi and No-Gi), and more — helping every member train smarter, improve faster, and reach their goals.
Expert Guidance
Learn from active UFC fighters and elite coaches with real fight experience and proven results.
Personalized Teaching
Every session is tailored to your goals, skill level, and growth, ensuring you improve faster and smarter.
Results That Stick
Build lasting confidence, sharpen technique, and perform at your best both on the mats and in life.