Coach Chino has been dedicated to martial arts since his teenage years, training under NCAA Wrestling Champion Eric Wais (Oklahoma State) before graduating from Woodland High School and joining the U.S. Army in 1999. As a Combat Medic and Licensed Practical Nurse, Chino served in Iraq for one year during Operation Iraqi Freedom 2, providing medical care to soldiers and civilians alike.
Over the years, Chino has competed in multiple combat sports, including Mixed Martial Arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), and Judo, winning numerous championships along the way. He has trained under MMA World Champion Ron “Machine Gun” Jhun and has had the opportunity to train alongside UFC fighters and MMA veterans across Hawaii, California, Mexico, and beyond.
During his time in the Army, Chino played a key role in training and certifying hundreds of soldiers in the Modern Army Combatives Program. He also helped coach Team Hawaii in preparation for the All-Army Combatives tournament in 2010. Chino’s impressive achievements in the tournament include placing in the top ranks of his division in 2007 and 2009, solidifying his reputation as one of the top fighters in the U.S. Army.
While Chino graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, he is currently a full-time homeschool father, teaching and coaching his two youngest daughters, who are active competitors on the CJJF Central team.
With over 25 years of experience in various martial arts, Chino brings a wealth of knowledge in wrestling, BJJ, boxing, striking, and MMA. He has coached and cornered athletes across these disciplines, helping individuals reach their full potential in competition. Though retired from active professional fighting, Chino remains an active competitor and has a deep passion for teaching and coaching others to achieve their personal best.
One of Chino’s greatest goals is to use martial arts to impact the next generation, helping students break mental barriers and develop resilience both on and off the mat. He is dedicated to raising the standard of excellence for his students, forging champions who are not only skilled fighters but also strong, confident individuals in life.