A Muay Thai school and Roy Dean Academy affliated Brazilian Jiu Jitu school in Sioux Falls, SD.
A Muay Thai school and Roy Dean Academy affliated Brazilian Jiu Jitu school in Sioux Falls, SD.
We understand that it is always beneficial to put a face to the folks you will be learning from. Tab over each name to learn more about our team members. If you meet these familiar faces in class and have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! Our goal is to make you feel comfortable, and we hope that you will continue and/or begin your martial arts journey with us.
Devin Turner
Hello and thanks for swinging by! I am the owner and head instructor at Midwest Martial Arts Academy. I am a seasoned Thai boxing coach and competitor as well as a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu brown belt under the world renowned coach and leading expert, Roy Dean.
With over 14 years of martial arts experience, my approach to teaching is both traditional and dynamic. I instruct both basic and advanced concepts, all centered around the same fundamental techniques. No matter the skill level of the students, there is something for everyone to learn and build from.
Before deciding to open up a martial arts gym, I was an MMA fighter and competed in the tri-state area in MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai. Having experience in the cage and on the mats allows me to teach techniques that work. Whether you’re looking to compete in either or both sports or you’re looking to feel more confident, I am here to help you with your goals.
Favorite Submission: Kimura
Favorite Muay Thai Technique: Sweeps
Austin Fox
My wife and I relocated to The Mount Rushmore State from Florida in 2021, and we've never looked back! We have enjoyed living in the Midwest, despite the thrilling winters. I've had the opportunity to train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu all around the United States, and I obtained my brown belt from Nader Snober of Devine Jiu Jitsu Jacksonville in 2022. I've been training BJJ for a total of 11 years.
When I'm not training jiujitsu, I'm pursuing my Doctorate in Nurse Anesthesia Practice. I plan to graduate in May 2024.
Favorite Submission: Loop choke
Jake Nicks
I am a three-stripe blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I grew up in Denver, Colorado, and came to Sioux Falls in January 2023. I have over 6 years experience in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I've competed in BJJ events in various states, including Submission Challenge, Fight2Win, Grappling Industries, and many others. I've also competed at the professional level of grappling with Shoot Pro Wrestling and am still undefeated! I've always like horror films, professional wrestling, and tattoos.
You can find Jake assisting with the kids classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Favorite Submission: Chokes. All of them.
Michael "Mikey" McCoy
Mikey started training at the age of 14, and has competed at one of the largest Muay Thai tournaments in the country, Thai Boxing Association (TBA) , several times. You can find Mikey teaching our Fundamentals Muay Thai class on Saturdays.
Outside of training, Mikey is pursuing a degree in System and Network Security.
Brandon Villanueva
I grew up in Sioux Falls and began training as a teenager, alongside Mikey. I have over a decade of experience striking. I've competed in numerous TBA events, US MTO, and kickboxing/grappling competitions in the Tri-State area. I also currently am a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.