Mike Palladino
Coach Mike Palladino has poured his heart and soul into BJJ for the past 17 years, earning the prestigious rank of 2nd degree Blackbelt under the legendary Rafael ‘Formiga’ Barbosa. His journey into the world of grappling began with childhood grappling matches with his Judoka father. Since diving headfirst into training in 2007 Mike’s quest for knowledge has taken him across continents to study with BJJ Masters in Brazil, Russia the UK, and Japan. Mike’s story isn’t just about personal achievement – it’s about giving back. In 2012, he bet it all on his dream to create Evolution Grappling Academy. Amidst his dedication to the art, Mike found another love. In that very first BJJ class, he met Laura, his partner in life and on the mats. Together they’re raising their two sons, Bruno and Andre, while simultaneously continuing to embody the spirit of BJJ – a passion for growth, a commitment to community, and a heart that beats for every student who walks through his academy doors.
Joe “JoePa” Pomarico
Coach Joe “JoePa” Pomarico began his martial arts journey in 2014. Following a childhood friend’s recommendation, JoePa came to EGA in 2016 and was promoted to Black Belt in 2022. Joe is an active competitor but his passion is driven by the love of preparing others for competition. He revels in the journey and understands there is no greater joy than to mentor students as they undertake a challenge, implement a game plan, execute and ultimately achieve their goals. Off the mats, Joe is busy running his design business, spending time with his family, studying the markets, and giving the utmost attention to his two cats.
Matt “Mattchete” Gonzalez
Coach Matt “Mattchete” Gonzalez, a BJJ Brown belt, has studied under the tutelage of Coach Mike Palladino since 2015. Matt was introduced to Martial Arts through the familiar cultural icons of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Pro-Wrestling, and UFC. His Uncle Dominic introduced him to the grappling finesse of BJJ which quickly captivated his interest. Tipping the scales at nearly 300 lbs, he dove into BJJ, unaware that it would utterly transform his life. The art, techniques, lifestyle, philosophy, and vibrant community ignited an unbreakable bond with BJJ. Matt is the Head Instructor of the Kids Program as well as our Membership Coordinator and Gym Manager. Matt and his wife are the proud parents of 3 children with his eldest, Matt Jr., following in his Dad’s footsteps as a Junior Coach.
Laina Giselle
Coach Laina Giselle, a BJJ Brown belt, has over 7 years of BJJ experience. She began training at Absolute MMA in Melbourne, Australia under Professor Lachlan Giles before relocating to NY and joining EGA in 2022. In 2023, she won silver at the 2023 IBJJF NoGi World Championship in her Masters 2 Division. A working “mum” of two boys, Laina is a regular at the 5:30am class for both training and coaching. Passionate about supporting women in the sport, Laina helped start and now co-facilitates the Women’s Class at EGA. Outside of BJJ and her private therapy practice, Laina enjoys cold plunging, hiking with her family and dancing whenever possible.
Christian
Coach Christian, a BJJ Purple belt, began his BJJ journey with a simple yet powerful motivation seven years ago; being a great protector for his family. Fast forward to today, and he’s passionate about helping our junior coaches empower the next generation of world champions! As Coach Christian puts it, “Give them what they seek and watch their personalities, skills and knowledge grow!” He’s thrilled to collaborate with Coach Matt and our team! His favorite animal is the turtle.
Dave
Coach Dave, a BJJ Brown belt, began Jiu Jitsu in 2016 and joined EGA in 2019. Since then he has competed in a variety of Jiu Jitsu formats and won a sub-only super fight at IBJJF NoGi Masters Worlds in 2019. Currently Dave is teaching the Intro to Jiu Jitsu classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. When not training, Dave can be found skiing, hiking, and camping with his wife Alison and son Cameron.
Jordan
Sean
Coach Sean initially started training Jiu Jitsu while in the Navy at the United States Merchant Marine Academy. Sean took an extended break from martial arts after the Navy. In 2018, he found EGA and has been training regularly ever since. When Sean is not at Jiu Jitsu, he works full time as an EMT. In his free time he enjoys chess, snowboarding, watching hockey, and mixed martial arts.
Hoost
Jay
Coach Jay, a BJJ Brown belt, began training in 2010 under Jin Yung and Aaron Milam before relocating to the Hudson Valley in 2016 and earning his purple and brown belts under Coach Mike Palladino. Jay helps lead the kids and adults classes at our Fishkill location. Jay takes after his father who originally trained in Long Island, NY. Jay continues to keep the martial arts tradition alive in his family, by sharing the mats with his two sons. His oldest son, Will, is Autistic and through Jay’s tutelage, Will has developed a passion for Jiu Jitsu and the EGA culture. Jay and both his sons can often be found happily rolling around at Open Mats on Sundays. When he is not on the mats, Jay enjoys spending time with his family hiking in the area, searching for records, and going to see live music.