Founder · Jiu-Jitsu & Wrestling Coach
James Cook, Ed.D
A first-degree BJJ black belt, veteran, educator, and accomplished competitor, James brings over a decade of martial arts and teaching experience to a structured, beginner-friendly academy.
The coaching team
COACHES AT DANDELION BJJ
Competitive knowledge matters. Knowing how to help a student learn matters just as much — meet the teacher-led coaching team in West Haven.
Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Gabriel Martinez
A BJJ black belt, educator, farmer, and West Haven wrestling coach, Gabriel combines technical discipline with a deeply inclusive approach to student growth.
Jiu-Jitsu & Wrestling Coach
Mike Peters
A BJJ purple belt, longtime wrestling coach, former UConn varsity athlete, competitive powerlifter, and certified personal trainer with decades of athletic experience.
Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Dimitri Thornton
A second-degree BJJ black belt and school psychologist, Dimitri blends high-level competition experience with expertise in confidence, discipline, and mental resilience.
Youth Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Pete Trenchard
An educator with more than 20 years of teaching and coaching experience, Pete creates a safe, engaging environment centered on confidence and personal growth.
Striking Coach
Marvin “Black Tiger” Jones
Instructor MJ brings over 30 years of martial arts experience, combining multiple striking traditions into a disciplined and dynamic kickboxing program.
Ready when you are
TRY ONE WEEK
No obligation. Come meet the coaches, see the space, and discover the right program for you.