Meet Our Instructors
At Zingano BJJ Brighton, we are proud to have a dedicated team of highly skilled and experienced instructors. They are passionate about teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai to both adults and kids.
Professor Cory Kuechler
Head Instructor
Professor Cory Kuechler began his grappling journey by starting to wrestle in 1996 when he was just 10 years old. In 2008, he began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under the guidance of Mauricio Zingano. Shortly after, he expanded his skills by training in Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).
One of his favorite aspects of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the challenge and satisfaction of mastering techniques that allow him to transition seamlessly from one position to another, ultimately leading to submission.
Outside of the gym, he enjoys outdoor activities such as rock climbing and snowboarding, which help him stay active and push his limits in different ways.
Professor Jordan Blanco
Jiu-Jitsu Enthusiast and Head Coach
Professor Jordan began training in Jiu-Jitsu in 2007 at the age of 10 and has dedicated over a decade to honing his skills as a competitor. With eight years of coaching experience, he finds joy in the mental challenges of the sport and values the strong sense of community among practitioners.
Outside the gym, Professor Jordan enjoys immersing himself in historical books, particularly those focused on war and crime, further expanding his knowledge and perspective.
Dianna Samuel-Ball
Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Dianna has been training in Jiu-Jitsu for four years, dedicating her time to competing in various events both locally and nationally. Her favorite aspect of Jiu-Jitsu is the opportunity to learn practical self-defense skills while also experiencing the thrill of competition.
Outside the gym, Dianna enjoys visiting the shooting range and going for runs. She is excited to share her knowledge and passion for Jiu-Jitsu with her students.
Professor Marcus Diamond
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt & Instructor
Professor Marcus Diamond has been dedicated to the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) for over 16 years. He holds a black belt in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and American Kenpo Karate, showcasing his extensive martial arts expertise. His BJJ journey began under the esteemed Professor Mauricio Zingano, from whom he proudly earned his blue belt before Professor Zingano’s untimely passing.
In 2021, Professor Marcus achieved the rank of black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Hans Thompson, who became his primary mentor and guide following the loss of Professor Zingano. Continuing his pursuit of excellence, Professor Marcus trains under the guidance of Professors Cory Kuechler and Matt Sims, always striving to refine his craft and deepen his knowledge. True to his philosophy as a lifelong student of BJJ, he honors the tradition of wearing a white gi, symbolizing humility and a commitment to continuous learning.
For Professor Marcus, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art—it’s a sanctuary from life’s pressures and a source of cherished friendships. Off the mats, he shares his passion for education as a STEM teacher, coaches high school football, and devotes his time to his family and small farm.
Whether instructing on the mats or nurturing his community, Professor Marcus embodies dedication, perseverance, and the spirit of lifelong learning.
Professor Keith Nolf
Jiu-Jitsu & Wrestling Instructor
Starting his training under Professor Marcio Zingano back in 2010. Keith has over 15 years of experience in Jiu-Jitsu and a decade of wrestling, Keith is a seasoned athlete and mentor. He has qualified for the state championships three times and earned All-Conference honors three times as well. His favorite aspect of Jiu-Jitsu is its unique blend of “meditation through violence,” along with the lifelong friendships formed on the mats.
Outside of the gym, he enjoys hunting, fishing, working on hot rods, and practicing yoga.
Mark Cyr
Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Coach Mark began his training at the age of 49 and has been dedicated to the art of Jiu-Jitsu for over 10 years. His favorite aspect of Jiu-Jitsu is the camaraderie and the unique journey it offers, allowing him to connect with others who share his passion.
Outside the gym, Coach Mark is an avid sports fan, with Jiu-Jitsu topping his list, followed closely by boxing. He also has a deep appreciation for classic cars and hot rods and values spending quality time with friends and family.
Jenyca Blanco
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Coach Jenyca started training in Jiu-Jitsu in 2014, giving her over 11 years of experience in this dynamic martial art. While she once loved competing, her favorite aspect of Jiu-Jitsu now is the positive atmosphere of the gym and the valuable self-defense skills it teaches.
Outside of training, Coach Jenyca enjoys expressing her creativity through painting and exploring the wonders of the universe by studying astronomy. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge and encouraging students to grow both on and off the mat.
Maya Stocky
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Coach Maya has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for 10 years, making it an incredible journey of growth and self-discovery. One of her favorite aspects of Jiu-Jitsu is how it serves as an outlet for releasing negative emotions—stepping onto the mat provides her with a sense of relief and focus.
Outside the gym, Coach Maya enjoys running and drawing, as these activities help her stay active and express her creativity.
Danae Mitchel
Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Coach Danae has been training in jiu jitsu for two and a half years. She is dedicated to improving her skills and pushing her limits. Her favorite part of jiu jitsu is the challenge it offers; she enjoys learning new techniques and getting better at the sport. Outside of the gym, Coach Danae loves baking delicious treats and spending time with friends and family while playing board games.
Ready to Start Training?
Take the first step in your martial arts journey today. Select the class that’s right for you and join our community of passionate martial artists.