Matt Winder

Coach Matt Winder
Purple Belt · Head Instructor

Matt brings 18 years of Army service, including service as an 11B Infantry Squad Leader and deployments to Iraq, to his role as head instructor at Saiyan Jiu Jitsu.

He began training Jiu Jitsu in 2013, with breaks due to military deployments, and has been coaching since 2015. His military background and experience in the Modern Army Combatives Program helped shape his commitment to accountability, hard work, and looking out for the people beside him.

Matt brings competitive experience to a coaching style that is relaxed and approachable, with a steady push to help you improve. He encourages students to ask questions, learn from mistakes, and build confidence while challenging themselves to grow.

Whether he’s helping a child find their voice, welcoming a nervous beginner, or pushing an experienced student, Matt’s goal is to help people become stronger on and off the mats. He’s proud to lead a community where teammates support each other and everyone has room to grow.

Competition Accomplishments

• Fuji Worlds No-Gi Expert World Champion
• Fuji Worlds Gi Silver Medalist
• ADCC Open Advanced Bronze Medalist
• Newbreed Worlds Brown Belt Bronze Medalist
• IBJJF Open Double Silver Medalist

Ranks & Certifications

• Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
• Thai Boxing Association — Level 3
• Modern Army Combatives — Levels 1 & 2
• ISSA Certified Personal Trainer
• ISSA Certified Youth Fitness Trainer
• ISSA Certified Exercise Therapy Specialist
• ISSA Certified Sports Nutrition Specialist
• ISSA Certified Corrective Exercise Specialist
• ISSA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
• ISSA Certified Bodybuilding Specialist