Our Instructors
Tom Clare
Head instructor/ Owner/Head kids instructor
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu second degree Black belt under 6th degree Black Belt professor Luigi Mondelli of America Top Team Danbury CT. Judo Brown Belt Coach Tom has over 17 years of Jiu Jitsu, Jido, Striking & MMA experience and hasn’t newly added Sumo Wrestling to his toolbox :)
Kelz Kirker-Clare
Head female instructor/Mini & Micro Warriors head instructor
Four strips purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Strong by Zumba instructor Has been training MMA, Submission grappling, Wrestling, Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for over 12 years. Kelz is a huge part of our kids program especially our Mini & Micro Warriors. The kids love learning from Coach Kelz and the unique & understanding learning approaches that she brings to the classes. Coach Kelz has worked with kids for over 30 years as well as a mom to her own boys as well, who also train and bring great energy to the gym.
Rian Kirker
Wrestling Coach/Kids instructor
Coach Rian is a College Wrestler with over 100 Varsity wins in his HS career. Rian is also a 4x All American Wrestler and went to Fargo in his Junior year. Rian was on Varsity wrestling for over 7 years (Covid sadly took a season away) and has trained Jiu Jitsu for over 13 years. Rian is a beast when it comes to putting wrestling and Jiu Jitsu together. Coach Rian is currently continuing his wrestling journey with Utica university while he is getting his degree to continue to coach after college. Coach Rian loves coaching our athletes to bring out the best in them.
Matt Morris
Wrestling coach
Coach Matt is a 3x Section 9 Champion, 2x NYS placewinner, 2019 NY Greco-Roman State Champion, and compiled 129 wins throughout his high school career. He competed at Millersville University as a Division II wrestler, earning 2x Division II Scholar All-American honors. As one of the 2024-2025 Team Leaders of Millersville Wrestling, he brings leadership and high-level competition experience in order to, help athletes sharpen their skills.
Max Sheprow
Kickboxing Pad/Bag work instructor
Coach Max is a determined and disciplined striking coach who translates passion into technique. He competitively wrestled for four years before expanding his training in 2023 to include kickboxing, Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and Muay Thai. In September 2025, Max won his debut amateur fight by way of knockout. In addition to instructing at The MMA Collective, he trains at American Top Team in Danbury, Connecticut. His focus is on equipping students with real striking skills, resilience, and consistent progress.
