Head Grappling Coach: Craig Ostrum
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Coach Craig began his martial arts journey as a wrestler in high school. As a senior he was the NYSCHSAA 171lb champion. He continued wrestling while studying Mechanical Engineering at Penn State. Eventually, Craig was introduced to MMA through Quantum Jiu-Jitsu. After returning to Buffalo he began coaching Wrestling at St. Joes, and training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.Nicknamed 'O-Jitsu' for his rare all-offensive grappling style, Craig is a feared competitor in the Northeast. He was victorious in his MMA debut, winning in only 46 seconds via Rear Naked Choke without ever getting hit. After being promoted to Blue Belt, he competed in one of Ontario's most difficult Gi competitions, and won every match by submission to become the Blue Belt Middleweight Champion. ( Team Ascension Purple Belt )
Head Striking Coach: Nicholas Dodge
Nicknamed 100% for his relentless style of combat, Coach Nick is the most respected Muay Thai fighter in our region. His positive attitude and dedication to spreading the art of Muay Thai has been ever growing. Coach Nick spent the first part of 2011 in Thailand, training in his beloved art and studying the culture of the country. Since joining BTC in 2009, Nick Dodge has been directly responsible for the huge growth of the striking program. Coach Nick is not only a fierce competitor, but a talented teacher as well, using his own experiences to teach effective technique. In competition Coach Nick has never lost a round. He is undefeated in MMA with a record of 2-0, finishing both fights within two rounds. Coach Nick is also undefeated in Muay Thai, with a record of 5-0. Recently, he won the USMTA 154lb title. ( Team Ascension Blue Belt )
Boxing Coach: Drew Graziadei
Coach Drew began training in Judo and Grappling arts, but quickly began studying Boxing. After joining BTC, Coach Drew took up Mixed Martial Arts. Victorious in his debut via first round KO, Drew has continued to build momentum in Muay Thai and Boxing competitions, revered for his technical yet brutal striking style. In MMA competition, Drew has gained a record of 3-1, fighting all over NY and even in Florida, where he gained a 3rd Round Head Kick KO that sent his opponent into the air. Coach Drew has a keen eye for striking potential and will quickly improve any student's boxing technique. ( Team Ascension Blue Belt)
Head MMA and Kids Coach: Jason Trzewieczynski
Coach Jason began his martial arts journey in Eight Step Preying Mantis Kung Fu and Sanshou, after a long gymnastics career. His love of traditional martial arts values and philosophies would eventually lead him to Professor Omar Salvosa. Nicknamed 'Ba Bu' which means 'eight step' in Chinese, Jason has become one of the most decorated martial artists in NY. Ba Bu has fought on MMA cards with and against UFC veterans. He has fought in over 16 matches, which gives him a tremendous amount of experience to call upon while teaching. Ba Bu travels regularly to the Ascension Academies to sharpen his skills. In addition, Ba Bu has trained and fought all over the United States. ( Team Ascension Blue Belt 3rd degree )
Kids Coach: John Swantek
Coach John has been a martial arts enthusiast for most of his life. He first began training in Kenpo and recieved his black belt in 1987. He later sought something different from martial arts, and began training in Preying Mantis Kung Fu. He became an instructor and earned his black sash in 1999. Later, with the same school, he began training in Krav Maga, becoming a certified level 3 instructor under Darin Levine. John is a true martial artist and is a great asset to Buffalo Training Center and Team Ascension. His current goals are taking him down the road of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition, and he soon hopes to earn his Blue Belt from Professor Omar Salvosa. (Team Ascension White Belt 4th Degree)
