We are incredibly fortunate to have so many amazing coaches on our team, and we want to give them the spotlight they deserve! To help you get to know them better, we’re introducing a new series where we dive deeper into their backgrounds, passions, and what they love most about teaching.
This week, we’re excited to introduce Coach Ray
1. Interviewer: Can you share a bit about your journey—how did you get started in teaching?
I started martial arts around the age of 14 and earned my second-degree black belt. I also have five years of experience in kickboxing and five years of Kali training. My first introduction to tricking was at a tournament where I saw competitors pulling off incredible flips—ironically, the same competitors who ended up beating me! That moment sparked my curiosity, and I wanted to learn those skills myself. My teacher at the time told me it was called “tricking,” so I went home, dove into YouTube, and learned everything I could. That was back in 2014.
I started teaching Taekwondo when I was a blue belt and gradually incorporated tricking into my classes as I improved.
2. Interviewer: Have you had any mentors or key influences that shaped your coaching and teaching style?
Absolutely! My Taekwondo instructors and the old-school trickers of Portland have been huge influences. I have a deep passion for both teaching and the art itself, and I love figuring out how each student develops their own unique style and specialty.
3. Interviewer: What classes do you currently teach, and who are they designed for?
I teach Tricking and Martial Arts for students of all ages and skill levels!
4. Interviewer: What goals or outcomes can students expect from your classes?
Students will develop a strong foundation in the mechanics of kicks, jumps, and spins. I tailor my approach to each individual’s personal goals and skill level, ensuring they progress in a way that works best for them.
5. Interviewer: How would you describe your teaching style in three words?
Open, Creative, Building.
6. Interviewer: How do you tailor your approach to meet the needs of different individuals or groups?
I assess each student’s strengths and weaknesses, then create progressions that help them develop the skills we’re working on. Every student is different, so I adapt my teaching to suit their needs.
7. Interviewer: What sets your classes apart from others in the field?
I prioritize vocal encouragement and constructive feedback—not just from me, but from everyone in the class. I’ve worked hard to foster a supportive community where students cheer each other on and help each other improve. It’s a really positive and motivating environment.
8. Interviewer: Can you share a favorite success story or a moment you’re particularly proud of in your career?
One of my proudest moments was hosting my very first tricking event in Oregon alongside my friends. It was such a great experience that it has now become an annual event!
9. Interviewer: What’s your favorite part of teaching and coaching?
Seeing the moment when something finally “clicks” for a student—whether it’s learning a new trick or understanding a key piece of feedback. That moment of realization and excitement is what makes teaching so rewarding.
10. Interviewer: What advice would you give to someone considering taking one of your classes for the first time?
For kids—be ready to do lots of spinning!
For adults—get ready to feel like a kid again!
