Threshold Martial Arts Instructors - Mount Prospect, IL

Bill Shimuk, 1st Degree Black Belt, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

I still remember my first Martial Arts class, I was nervous and knew nothing about the techniques or training. I only knew that I wanted to learn. With time, it became natural to train and Martial Arts became my passion. My introduction into the world of grappling was through Classic Japanese JuiJitsu. As a result, my instruction today focuses largely on Self Defense and Takedowns. As the Lead Grappling Instructor at Threshold, I enjoy blending innovative techniques and solid basics skills in my pursuit to make the most complete Black Belts on the planet.

Ed Serra, Lead Striking Instructor

Along with earning a BJJ Black Belt, Coach Ed has over 20 years of Martial Arts experience including 15 years in Muay Thai and Kickboxing under the guidance of the Thai Boxing Association, (TBA) and Arjan Chai Sirisute. Ed’s classes are a fun blend of functional fitness drills and technical Thai Kickboxing. As an avid competitor himself, Coach Ed understands how to prepare for success. He shows Threshold’s Kickboxing students how to do the same and how to achieve maximum results in minimal time.

Chris Trella, Youth Programs Director

Chris holds a bachelors degree in Physical Education and a Masters degree in Kinesiology and Biomechanics from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in South Africa. With 10 years experience as a Primary School Physical Education teacher, Chris is a seasoned educator, making him an invaluable resource for Threshold’s Youth Programs. As an active competitor in Jiu-Jitsu, MMA and Muay Thai Kickboxing, Coach Chris brings real-world experience into every class.

Brian Wells, 2nd Degree Black Belt, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Brian Wells’s martial arts career began in the U.S. Marine Corps hand-to-hand combat training systems. After 25 years of training and Instruction in Martial Arts, Brian holds the following ranks: 2nd Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Master Pedro Sauer, 3rd degree Black Belt in USJA’s Tori Ryu Jiujitsu, 3rd Degree Black Belt in AKF JuiJitsu, 2nd degree Black Belt In Hapkido and the rank of Sankyu in Judo under 8th dan Grandmaster Ok Hyung Kim.

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