Coaches

Jonathan Burke

Jon’s introduction to self-defense began in the 1990s working first as an intern, then full-time, at the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy Headquarters in Southern California. While there, Jon learned the tenets and discipline of practicing and teaching Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with legendary three-time Ultimate Fighting Champion (UFC) Royce Gracie. During his time training under Royce, Jon’s commitment and skill earned him a place on Royce’s competition fight team. After a decade of consistent training, Jon was awarded a black-belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu by Royce Gracie.

Through martial arts, Jon has helped countless men, women and children of all occupations and socio-demographic backgrounds. He has worked with families, schools, universities, small businesses and large corporations carve paths to improve their personal and group safety environments. With the desire for their loss prevention teams to learn the most effective and customer-friendly approach to non-aggressive handcuffing and close-quarters techniques, Jon was hired by this Fortune 25 company to train their entire eastern region. His instruction has provided them with the skills to minimize disturbance by resolving issues in a discrete and efficient manner without causing injury.

Following the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001, Jon served as a team leader and instructor to train, what is now recognized as the Department of Homeland Security, in advanced close-quarters combat for S.A.I.C. counter terrorist teams. Jon’s expertise and student-friendly instruction have been implemented by U.S. Navy SEALs, U.S. Army Special Forces, U.S. Army Rangers and other members of the U.S. Armed Forces as well as U.S. federal and state law enforcement agencies.

Jon’s unique ability to simplify complex fundamentals and teach them has earned him notable recognition. His body of work spans from world-famous actors, musicians and athletes, to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and domestic law enforcement agencies.

He has had the honor of teaching non-compliant assailant cuffing techniques, weapons retention, and upright and ground self-defense to U.S. Special Forces, 82nd Airborne and active-duty forces in South Korea.

Jon designates time to teach rape prevention to female military personnel as well as wives and daughters of military families. His instruction has had such an overwhelming impact on individuals and organizations that he has been featured on ABC, NBC, FOX News, ESPN and other media outlets.

Jon resides in Florida with his wife and children where they own and operate a mixed marital arts and fitness facility. He has also authored the book “Safe is the New Sexy,” a women’s guide to self-defense.

Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Nwodo

Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Nwodo, born in the early 1970s in Enugu, Nigeria, is a multifaceted individual whose life has been a testament to excellence, resilience, and faith.

Emmanuel’s early education began at Saint Theresa College in Nigeria, where his passion for learning and personal growth was nurtured. Later, he attended College in India, where he excelled academically and displayed exceptional talent in chemistry. During his college years, Emmanuel competed in the All-Asia Chemistry Tournaments, where his brilliance earned him two gold medals, cementing his place as a distinguished scholar even before entering the professional world.

Beyond academics, Emmanuel pursued a remarkable career as a professional athlete. He rose to prominence as a Cruiserweight boxing champion, holding titles such as the United States Boxing Association (USBA) and African Boxing Union (ABU) Championships. Additionally, he competed in the prestigious North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Championship, showcasing his indomitable spirit and athletic skill as a certified professional personal trainer. Certified First Aid, Adult,Child and infant CPR & AED.

Emmanuel’s journey, however, is not solely defined by his academic and athletic achievements. At the age of sixteen, he began his spiritual journey, becoming a young evangelist committed to sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. His deep faith guided him to the School of Ministry, where he developed a profound understanding of scripture and religious leadership. In the course of his spiritual growth, Emmanuel discovered his heritage as part of the lost tribe of Israel, which inspired him to delve deeper into Jewish traditions and the Torah. His studies as a conservative Jew provided him with a unique perspective on faith, enriching his spiritual foundation. Following his extensive theological exploration, Emmanuel embraced his calling and became an Apostle of Jesus Christ, dedicating his life to teaching, guiding, and inspiring others through his ministry.

Today, Emmanuel is an Author not only a devoted husband to his beautiful wife but also a role model for those striving to balance success in various facets of life. His story is a powerful example of how faith, determination, and hard work can lead to a life of purpose, fulfillment, and impact.

Apostle Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Nwodo is a visionary leader, dynamic teacher, and devoted servant of God. As the founder of Ministers of Our God Ministry, Apostle Emmanuel has dedicated his life to spreading the message of faith, salvation, and the transformative power of God’s Word to people around the world. This early commitment to ministry laid the foundation for a lifetime of spiritual service and leadership.
Driven by a deep desire to grow in knowledge and spiritual wisdom, Apostle Emmanuel attended the School of Ministry, where he honed his understanding of theology and pastoral leadership. Building on this foundation, Apostle Emmanuel embraced his divine calling and established Ministers of Our God Ministry, a ministry dedicated to raising disciples, empowering leaders, and fostering a deeper relationship with God. As a teacher and spiritual mentor, he focuses on equipping believers with biblical truths, guiding them to fulfill their God-given purposes.

Tony Siceloff, CF-L2, CPT, CPA

Tony is the founder and Head Coach at CrossFit Trailside. As a CPA, it’s no surprise that Tony applies an analytical and methodical approach to fitness. With an emphasis on safety and injury prevention, Tony believes proper mechanics are the most important aspect of any fitness program. Tony owns CrossFit Trailside in Oakland, FL and has over 13 years of CrossFit experience.

Montia Rice

Coach Rice’s coaching experience covers 16 years starting at the University of Florida (2008-2011) as the Men’s Coach as well as Masters Coach at Gainesville Area Rowing Club. He progressed to Jacksonville University as Men’s Assistant and then Men’s head Coach (2011-2014). He then moved to Oklahoma to Coach Athletes headed for the World Games in 2015.

This was followed by a storied career at the University of Central Oklahoma (2016-2019) as Women’s Head Coach with 50 athletes. His crews won the D2 NCAA Championship in the Varsity 8 three years in a row and was 3rd, then runner up, and then Champion in the Varsity 4. From there he was recruited to the University of Central Florida where he first focused on building and facilitating Training Plans and Leadership Cohesiveness. This was followed by leading the Women’s Program.

Montia brings a broad level of experience that is balanced, competitively focused, and an easygoing style that works well with novice to elite members.

Ally Grantier

With over five years of experience in the fitness industry, Ally specializes in functional training, injury prevention, and athletic development. Formerly a soccer coach, Ally brings a dynamic approach to training that integrates movement patterns to enhance performance and reduce risk of injury.