Our Coaches

Sean Ruiz, a black belt under the legendary Carlson Gracie Jr., brings nearly three decades of experience to Absolution Jiu Jitsu. A former MMA fighter, Jiu Jitsu competitor  and a judo black belt, he has trained under renowned instructors such as Javier Vazquez, Erik Paulson, and Todd Medina, bringing a unique blend of grappling arts including catch wrestling Luta Livre, and judo to create a signature approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

While his curriculum adapts to the room—whether focusing on sport or self-defense —self-defense remains king. According to Professor Sean, whether someone is gearing up for a competition, fight, or just trying to keep themselves safe on the street, students must understand that harmonizing technique, sparring, and conditioning is key to developing a complete game. 

As far as instruction is concerned, classes prioritize true fundamentals while challenging advanced practitioners with theoretical depth and less conventional techniques. Sparring is tailored to individual needs, considering intensity, skill level, age, and each student’s purpose for training.

More than anything, Professor Sean focuses on making Absolution more of a laboratory - a place where students and teachers discuss and apply technique and strategy. Professor Sean also encourages his students to embrace a lifelong white-belt mentality. Professor Sean understands that each student comes through his doors with a different “why” and he routinely offers specific feedback to his students about their strengths and ways to improve. 

Coach Justin, who’s trained with Professor Sean since 2012, knows Professor Sean’s teaching style well.  

“Sean invests one on one time, thought, and instruction to help each student achieve their individual goals. Whether it be competition, self defense, physical fitness, job related, or hobby, Sean has a talent in instructing in basic minimal movements which breaks down technique in a fashion anyone can understand.”

Perry Wells is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) with more than 14 years of experience, awarded his rank in 2018 by the late Professor Orlando Sanchez of Gracie Barra. Beginning his journey in 2009, he earned his white to brown belts under Professor Tom Reusing. Early on in his journey, Coach Perry developed a deep appreciation for the art's technical and mental challenges.

As an instructor, Coach Perry is passionate about cultivating both skill and character in his students. He structures classes to include warm-ups with BJJ-specific movements, takedowns, ground techniques, and sparring. Like Absolution’s other instructors, Coach Perry stresses a balance between sport and self-defense, stating, “The beauty of jiu-jitsu is that all techniques have a self-defense basis, allowing students to explore the art’s entirety.”

His teaching philosophy values mixed-level classes, where advanced students mentor beginners and new students are embraced as part of the academy’s culture. Rolling sessions blend free sparring with scenario-based drills to reinforce fundamentals and expand skill sets.

A seasoned competitor, Coach Perry encourages students to compete for growth and self-discovery. More than anything, Coach Perry wants to create a positive, respectful environment that inspires students to challenge themselves, foster camaraderie, and reach their full potential on and off the mats.

Coach Justin Snyder is a seasoned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioner and a dedicated law enforcement officer with 23 years of service. As a Black belt with more than a decade of training, Coach Justin has cultivated a deep understanding of BJJ’s principles and their practical applications in real-world scenarios. Since 2012, he has trained under Professor Sean Ruiz at Adrenaline Martial Arts and Carlson Gracie Temecula, while also gaining insights through cross-training with prominent figures such as Rener Gracie, Brian Ortega, and Jamar Ocampo.

Coach Justin emphasizes practicality, safety, and inclusivity on the mats. He focuses on high-percentage techniques tailored to students’ individual needs and stresses the importance of mat time for building both mental and physical skills. 

While a strong advocate of self-defense, Coach Justin addresses both self-defense and competitive aspirations, recognizing the value of competition without losing sight of practical application. 

Through his teaching, Coach Justin fosters a culture of growth, respect, and camaraderie, helping students embrace the transformative power of BJJ both on and off the mats.

Pat Houston is a Black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) with more than 10 years of experience. Awarded his rank by Professor Sean Ruiz in the Carlson Gracie lineage, Coach Pat has also trained under esteemed instructors like Tom Cronin, Tino Martinez, Jeff Gallegos, and Lawrence Griffin, providing him with a well-rounded foundation.

Coach Pat’s teaching philosophy focuses on refining individual skill sets, with a strong emphasis on control and creativity.  By blending self-defense and sport Jiu-Jitsu, Coach Pat wants his students to have fun and develop their own “system” of grappling.

A former competitor, Coach Pat encourages students to compete for personal growth and oversees their competition preparation. He also values cross-training, and advocating for students to explore other disciplines and academies. 

Coach Pat’s word for students: “Just show up! There is something therapeutic about being on the mats with friends and like-minded individuals from all walks of life. You will find yourself immersed in the moment without the stresses of day to day life. The added benefit is it’s a workout as well.”

Sensei Nathan Goltz is a martial arts prodigy and accomplished instructor with more than 36 years of expertise in Judo. As the youngest Godan (5th-degree black belt) in the country, his journey in martial arts began at an early age and has been marked by numerous achievements and accolades. He is also a Shodan (1st-degree black belt) in Shotokan Karate and Kendo, demonstrating his dedication to mastering a variety of disciplines.

Sensei’s competitive success is a testament to his skill and determination. He is a two-time Junior Olympic Judo Champion and a two-time Junior National Judo Champion. His passion for Judo took him to Japan, where he immersed himself in the art’s birthplace. He spent a year at Budai University in the prestigious Budo Specialization program and an additional three months training intensively at the Kodokan Judo Institute, the global epicenter of Judo.

In the United States, Sensei Goltz further honed his skills as a member of the Cumberland College collegiate Judo team, ranked number one in the nation. 

Sensei Goltz also teaches Judo at University of Combat Sports in Claremont, CA.

Michael Scott's journey through the world of wrestling and martial arts is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. Starting in high school, Michael found his footing on the wrestling mats, honing his skills and discipline. His commitment continued into college, where he juggled academics with wrestling on a club team and explored the intricacies of Jiu-Jitsu. Post-graduation, Michael's path led him to Pasadena, where he transitioned into a coaching role, shaping young athletes' futures in high school wrestling and contributing to the impactful work of Beat The Streets, a wrestling organization aimed at empowering youth. His career took a turn towards law enforcement, where his grappling expertise became a valuable asset. Michael now plays a crucial role in training his fellow officers in self-defense techniques, ensuring their safety on duty. His journey reflects a seamless blend of passion, community service, and professional growth, showcasing how sports can positively influence various facets of life.