YOUR COACHES
SBG Sparks offers world class martial arts instruction across numerous disciplines with over 80 years combined experience! All of our coaches have passed the SBG Coaches Course certification in order to bring you the best possible training experience.
SBG began over thirty years ago, when its founder, Matt Thornton, opened the first location in Portland Oregon. His goal was to create a university of fighting, where the truth of what does and does not work could be explored – an academy where ‘best practices’ could develop – where form would follow function. Our coaches strive to follow this dream.
We welcome you to come join the SBG Sparks community and experience it for yourself!
Ray Price
- 3rd Degree BJJ Black Belt
- Coach
- 25-Years in Law Enforcement
Ray Price is a 3rd-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under his coach of twenty years Matt Thornton, the esteemed President of Straight Blast Gym (SBG). Ray holds the distinction of being Matt’s 11th black belt recipient.
Before affiliating with SBG in the early 2000s, Ray delved into various martial arts disciplines since his teenage years, honing his skills and passion for combat sports.
With a commendable 25-year tenure in law enforcement, Ray has amassed extensive training experience and expertise in the field. He served as an instructor for the agencies he worked with, specializing in training of high-liability disciplines.
Ray’s dedication to sharing his knowledge and skills extends beyond his law enforcement duties. He has conducted training sessions for law enforcement personnel across the United States, a duty he continues to uphold to this day.
Ray’s versatile background in martial arts and law enforcement underscores his proficiency in both combat techniques and practical applications, making him a respected figure in both realms.
Nick Pacheco
- BJJ Black Belt
- Coach
Coach Nick is a Black Belt under coach Ray and has 12 years of experience practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, 10 years of that teaching classes and gaining experience around proper teaching methodology. Prior to jiu jitsu he spent time in other disciplines such as muay tai, boxing, kickboxing and taekwondo.
He was a sponsored skateboarder in his youth, a theology professor after college, and now spends his days working for a major logistics company.
Breau Williamson
- BJJ Brown Belt
- Coach
Coach Breau has been training jiu jitsu for a little over 10 years. His jiu jitsu journey began more as a way to stay in shape and has since become a passion and very big part of his life. Since 2018, he has been a student of Coach Ray Price. In that time, he has been to countless seminars and camp within the SBG organization.
Before coaching jiu jitsu, Breau had a career in emergency medical services, where he worked full time as a Paramedic in Little Rock Arkansas. He was later promoted to the rank of Field Sergeant, where he began training new EMTs and Paramedics.He also served as a part-time instructor, teaching EMTs and Paramedics students through refresher courses, BLS certification, and EMT/Paramedic recertification classes. His background in teaching high-pressure, hands-on medical skills has shaped his coaching philosophy—emphasizing clear instruction, calm under pressure, and a focus on fundamentals. He is currently pursuing an ADN in nursing school and plans to complete his BSN in nursing as well.
Breau brings this teaching experience into every jiu jitsu class, ensuring that students of all levels feel supported, challenged, and encouraged. Whether working with beginners or experienced students, he prioritizes detail, safety, and long-term development.
Mike Sanford
- BJJ Purple Belt
- Coach
Mike Sanford is a versatile individual whose interests and skills span a variety of disciplines. Growing up, he was a dedicated wrestler in high school, where he developed a passion for discipline and strategy.
After high school, Mike pursued a career in accounting, becoming a meticulous professional who enjoys the problem-solving aspects of the field. Outside of work, he remains intelectually curious, regularly tuning into Physics podcasts to explore the wonders of the Universe.
In his spare time, Mike also nurtures a love for baking, specializing in French pastries, and finds joy in the delicate art of pastry creation.
More recently, Mike has combined his athletic background and teaching abilities by coaching Jiu Jitsu classes, sharing his passion for grappling and helping others grow both physically and mentally.
Travis Christensen
- BJJ Purple Belt
- Coach
Coach Travis has 15 years of experience in Japanese Jiu Jitsu and 5 years of experience in Brazillian Jiu Jitsu under Coach Ray Price. Coach Travis has worked in private security as a bouncer and a bounty hunter and has 30 years of experience managing private sector businesses.
Olga Teran Penley
- BJJ Blue Belt
- Coach
- Competitor
Coach Olga is a Fundamentals Coach who began her training and fell in love with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2019. Since then she has competed in multiple tournaments and has won 1st place in the absolute division and 2nd place as a Master 2 competitor in the Dublin International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship in 2022. She has also won three gold and one silver medal from Grappling Industries.
In addition to her love for BJJ, Olga holds a Master of Social Work Degree. She is passionate about serving her community by volunteering for multiple organizations and preparing and providing meals to the unhoused.
Jason Trevino
- BJJ Blue Belt
- Coach
- 28-Years in Law Enforcement
Coach Jason is the Growing Gorillas and Fundamentals Program Director with a lifelong passion for martial arts.
With 28 years of experience in law enforcement, he specialized in teaching weaponless defense, firearms, active assailant response, and other tactical skills at the police academy and within the department.
In addition to his law enforcement background, Coach Jason has also taught numerous civilian courses, bringing his expertise and dedication to helping others build confidence and skills.
Jose Perez
- BJJ White Belt
- Assistant Coach
- 19-Years in Law Enforcement
Coach Jose, a dedicated Nevada native and Marine Corps veteran, has always held a deep passion for martial arts, with a particular focus on Jiu Jitsu.
With 19 years of law enforcement experience, Jose has served in various capacities throughout his distinguished career. Currently, he holds the position of Detective Sergeant and also leads his agency’s Defensive Tactics program as its head instructor.
Committed to sharing his knowledge and helping others improve, Jose looks forward to continuing his Jiu Jitsu journey and further developing his skills as both a practitioner and assistant coach.
