Instructor and co-owner Marissa Barr-Hartman began training martial arts as a child, primarily Tang Soo Do. As an adult she trained in Western Boxing under her brother, certified boxing trainer Adam Hartman. It was not until she began training Muay Thai that she found the sport that became an obsession. Marissa first traveled to Thailand in 2007 and has consistently been going back to train since 2016 at gyms such as Jaroonsak and FA Group. Marissa especially loves sharing her love and knowledge of Muay Thai with those new to the sport and fostering an environment that empowers women to become involved in combat sports and fitness. She is a certified personal trainer through the national academy of sports medicine. She holds a Bachelors Degree from Chatham University and a Masters Degree in International Training and Education from American University.

Instructor and co-owner Chris Merritt has been training and competing since 2015 when he began training under Kru David Reese. He has trained with notable Thai trainers and fighters such as Yothin FA Group, Thepnimit Sitmonchai and Toto por Pongsawang. Chris is a certified Boxing Pad holder trained by Coach Iran ‘Padman’ McGriff. Besides being a coach, he also co-ordinates the competition team’s fights and travel for the gym. Chris’ passion for Muay Thai helps keep his classes technical, engaging and a also great workout. As coach he feels it is imperative to always be a student and is Constantly trying to learn any and all aspects of Muay Thai and the best ways to teach them.

Coach matt began his muay thai journey in 2018. His dedication to his training and his attention to detail helped him excel very quickly and landed him a spot on our coaching staff. Outside of muay thai he has a lifelong passion for strength training and is a certified personal trainer through the national academy of sports medicine.

Coach Joe is an amateur fighter under SKN. He loves Muay Thai for its playfulness, its depth, and the straightforward efficiency of its techniques. He believes better technique is created through attentive repetition. As a coach, he enjoys fostering a positive environment that allows people to confidently push their boundaries.

He is also the 2024 TBA TOC 142lb B-Class Champ!

Coach Dan began his journey here at SKN in 2019 and immediately fell in love with the sport and culture. With no prior martial arts training, Dan progressed quickly through constant training and repitition. Dan is one of our amateur fighters as well as one of our assistant coaches for the little nak muays program & our 7am classes.

Coach Damián began his martial arts journey in Mexico through Kung Fu, Tae Kwon Do, and Boxing in 2007. He later specialized in Dutch style Muay Thai and Kickboxing. He has trained and competed in Muay Thai, MMA, and traditional martial arts at various levels. His style of Muay Thai incorporates a blend of Dutch Kickboxing and Mexican Boxing, with an emphasis on heart, fundamentals, and realistic application. As a coach, Damián looks to build an inclusive, fun practice welcoming all levels and identities. He enjoys working with everyone from novice students to professional fighters.

Coach TK

Coach Rachel

Coach Kelly