Head Instructors / Gym Managers
DAVID SIGLER
Black Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Gym Manager and Owner
Meet David Sigler, the head instructor and owner at Northwest Martial Arts Coos Bay. Originally from Arizona, David found his true passion in Eugene, Oregon, where he discovered jiu-jitsu classes at Northwest Martial Arts. Since then, he's been hooked on the sport and has competed at the highest levels throughout his career.
As a black belt, David's skills on the mat are unmatched, and he's always looking for new and creative ways to take down his opponents, not to mention his slick half-guard game.
But what sets David apart is his friendly and approachable coaching style. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned athlete, he'll help you improve your technique and reach your full potential.
KATIE ERICSON
Black Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Gym Manager and Owner
Katie Ericson began her jiu jitsu career by attending a women’s self defense class at the University of Oregon in 2009 and instantly fell in love with the sport and shortly after began training at Northwest Martial Arts in Eugene, OR.
After receiving her purple belt, she began to compete in local tournaments and really enjoys pushing herself competitively and to coach her students to do the same.
In 2018, Katie and David decided to open up NWMA Coos Bay and fulfill their dream of teaching jiu jitsu and passing on their knowledge to future generations.
Katie believes that jiu jitsu is great for anyone looking for a healthy activity and that self defense is important!
Instructors
Jessy Holmberg
Brown Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
At 32 years old, Jessy started his Jiu Jitsu journey in 2012 where he took his first class while living in Hawaii. Looking for a fun way to get some exercise and get fit, he fell in love instantly. Being a smaller guy, he realized Jiu Jitsu would allow him to defend himself against larger opponents. Over the next 6 years, Jessy would dabble in Jiu Jitsu getting into classes when he could, but due to his job as a pilot, he moved around and didn’t have as much time to dedicate to his passion for the martial art. Eventually, he decided while living in North Bend, to start his own Jiu Jitsu club which eventually led to the opening of NWMA Coos Bay under the instruction of David Sigler and Katie Ericson. Once NWMA opened, Jessy was able to dedicate himself to learning the art of Jiu Jitsu and getting his wife Jenn to join him on the mats where they excelled together. Jessy is a regular competitor on the IBJJF circuit and has vast knowledge of what it takes to perform at the highest levels of Jiu Jitsu competition. Jessy teaches our competition class where he focuses on the drills and mindset required to take your Jiu Jitsu to the competition mats. This class is highly recommended for all students to attend Gi or No Gi.
christian chase
Blue Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Meet Christian, a passionate blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu who brings his unrelenting dedication and infectious enthusiasm to our youth programs. He's not just a coach. He's a mentor who connects with his students on a whole new level. With his heart of gold, he exudes warmth, positivity, and a genuine desire to see each student thrive.
What sets Coach Christian apart is his exceptional patience. He understands that learning martial arts can be challenging, and he's always there to guide, support, and motivate his students every step of the way. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced student, Christian's unwavering commitment to your success will inspire you to achieve your full potential.
Jenn Holmberg
Purple Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Jenn Holmberg began her Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey in 2018 at the age of 41, bringing with her over 25 years of experience as a professional dancer and choreographer. Her dedication, discipline, and love for movement quickly translated into success on the mats. Just a few years into her training, Jenn’s passion and hard work culminated in earning a Bronze medal at the prestigious Master Worlds as a Purple belt. At 47 years old, Jenn embodies the strength, grace, and resilience that come with a lifetime of physical mastery. She continues to push her limits and inspire others, proving that it’s never too late to start something new and excel.
Mallory ingalls
Blue Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Meet Mallory Ingalls, the jiu-jitsu blue belt and adult fundamentals instructor who discovered her love for the sport at NWMA in her 30s. Originally from NY, Mallory has a background as a collegiate softball player and coach, working with players of all ages. However, when she moved to the OR coast, she sought a new way to stay active and meet new people. Enter jiu-jitsu and NWMA - it was love at first step onto the mats. After a couple of years of training, Mallory is excited to join our coaches in empowering others and spreading their passion for this incredible sport.
“Always assume that your opponent is going to be bigger, stronger, and faster than you; so that you learn to rely on technique, timing, and leverage rather than brute strength ”
