PROFESSOR
DANIEL ALMEIDA
Professor Daniel is a distinguished leader in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, recognized for his extensive journey which includes outstanding coaching, respected refereeing, and a legacy filled with champions. As the head coach and visionary of Gold Coast Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he has nurtured a culture of excellence. His journey began in Brazil, training under Professor Bruno Bastos at Nova União, a notable name in the international Jiu-Jitsu community. Joining Team Lead, created by Professor Bruno, he took on the role of head coach for the Australian division.
With more than 27 years committed to Jiu-Jitsu, Professor Daniel's impact is significant. In addition to his accolades, he is revered as one of Australia's top referees, enhancing his contributions to the sport. Under his expert mentorship, many champions have come forth, achieving state, national, and world titles. His competitive background has bolstered his expertise and accomplishments, which include:
NAGA World Champion
IBJJF No-Gi World Championship Double Bronze Medalist
Asian Champion
6-time Australian Champion
4-time IBJJF Pan Pacific Champion
Numerous other prestigious titles
Professor Daniel firmly believes that Jiu-Jitsu is accessible to everyone. This philosophy forms the foundation of his coaching approach, solidifying his reputation as a respected and influential figure in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, both within Australia and globally.
PROFESSOR
RIAN ELFORD
Professor Rian, the head instructor at Collective Martial Arts, is pleased to share his extensive no-gi knowledge with GCBJJ students. His Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey began at 24, starting with Fabio Galeb in January 2013. Initially motivated to learn self-defence, Professor Rian quickly discovered the profound value of Jiu-Jitsu, realizing it would be a lifelong commitment. He earned his blue belt in early 2014 and received his purple belt from Fabio in September 2016, reinforcing his dedication to the sport. In early 2018, he joined Collective Martial Arts Tweed Heads, where a chance meeting with Professor Daniel Almeida warmly integrated him into the gym's community. Soon after, he had the opportunity to teach both gi and no-gi Jiu-Jitsu to practitioners of all ages. Under Professor Almeida's guidance, Professor Rian's progression continued, culminating in his brown belt in 2019 and his black belt in 2021. Teaching Jiu-Jitsu has become a true passion for Professor Rian, a commitment he aims to uphold in the years to come.
HERNAN FERNANDEZ
NO GI COACH
Hernan's journey through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. It all began in Santiago de Chile, where he took his first steps onto the mats. After two years of hard work and countless hours of training, he proudly earned his blue belt, marking the beginning of his journey into the intricate world of grappling.
Determined to push himself further, Hernan sought new challenges and opportunities to grow. He ventured to the south of Chile, immersing himself in the local BJJ community. It was there that he honed his skills and rose to the rank of purple belt, solidifying his place as a formidable competitor.
With his sights set on new horizons, Hernan moved to Australia and found Gold Coast Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where he earned his brown belt under Professor Daniel in April 2024. Under Professor Daniel Almeida's guidance, Hernan flourished, becoming an integral part of the team. His dedication paid off, winning gold at the QBJJ Championship and earning two silver medals at the Byron Comp. Now, he also serves as the No Gi coach on Fridays, further contributing to the community's growth and success.
João tamayo
Coach
João began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2007 at Alliance BJJ in São Paulo, Brazil, earning his purple belt in 2012 before pausing to pursue an engineering degree and weightlifting. After moving to Australia in 2018. Picking up where he left off as a purple belt, he reignited his passion for Jiu-Jitsu in 2021. Training under Professor Daniel Almeida he achieved his brown belt in 2024.
With a background in discipline from his time in the Brazilian Army, João brings a dedicated and fitness-oriented approach to his coaching. His teaching style focuses on effective submissions, rapid transitions, and explosive techniques, helping students build skill and confidence on the mats.
DOUG ALVIA
KIDS’ COACH
Doug's journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began in November 2020 as one of the founding members of GCBJJ under Professor Daniel, marking the inception of a remarkable chapter in his life. Doug has progressed significantly since those early days, achieving milestones like winning local competitions and recently earning his purple belt. BJJ has not only honed Doug's skills but also instilled in him invaluable life lessons in patience, problem-solving, and resilience, proving useful beyond the mat.
Camaraderie and support within the tight-knit community of GCBJJ have been foundational to Doug's journey. Whether celebrating victories with friends or contributing to the gym's growth, Doug finds profound fulfilment in being part of this supportive community. Today, Doug's involvement extends beyond training; he now plays a role in teaching kids' classes, passing on the knowledge and passion for BJJ to the next generation under the mentorship of Professors Daniel and Rian.
SIOBAHN BACK
ADVANCE KIDS’ COACH
Siobhan Back began her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2019, inspired by three years of striking training. Her passion for BJJ grew quickly, and she trained consistently while gaining valuable coaching experience working with kids aged 4 to 15. As an active competitor, she competed at both white and blue belt levels, building a solid foundation of competition experience. After moving to Queensland with her partner, João, Siobhan continued her training under Professor Daniel Almeida, where she earned her purple belt.
With a teaching background, Siobhan’s coaching style focuses on helping students reach their full potential. She emphasizes fostering a deep understanding of techniques, building confidence in her students’ abilities, and supporting those who choose to compete.
JORDYN ALLEN
kids’ COACH & ADMINISTRATOR
Jordyn embarked on her martial arts journey in 2020, diving into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Daniel Almeida. Her dedication and talent quickly shone through, earning her a blue belt just a year later, in November 2021, and her purple belt in December 2024. Along the way, she showcased her skills in local competitions as a white and blue belt, securing numerous gold and silver medals and even triumphing in state championships.
Beyond her personal achievements, Jordyn plays a vital role in the gym's community. She extends her expertise to the next generation of martial artists by assisting with the kids' Jiu-Jitsu classes. Moreover, she fosters inclusivity and empowerment by contributing to the women-only sessions, creating a supportive environment for female practitioners.
In addition to her teaching and mentoring roles, Jordyn takes on administrative responsibilities, ensuring the smooth operation of the gym.
Marley Gleaves
Assistant KIDS’ COACH
Marley's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey since November 2020 has been remarkable. Under Professor Daniel "Jacaré" Almeida's guidance, he quickly immersed himself in the sport, showcasing dedication and perseverance. Before earning his juvenile blue belt in December 2024, Marley achieved multiple state and national championships, including a gold medal at the prestigious Pan Kids competition.
Transitioning from student to coach, Marley now assists Professor Daniel in teaching older kids' classes and offers personalized training sessions for aspiring young competitors on weekends. His commitment to nurturing the next generation embodies martial arts' spirit of sharing knowledge and fostering community.