Meet Our Dedicated Staff Instructors
Kru Jason Heatwole
Training Background: Kru Jason began his martial arts journey in 1999 under Navy SEAL Pat Tray at Trident Academy of Martial Arts in Woodbridge, VA. He has since trained under renowned martial artists Guro Dan Inosanto and Sensei Erik Paulson, blending a passion for the history of combative arts with practical applications.
Competition Experience: Jason has competed in numerous Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Thai Boxing, Mixed Martial Arts, Savate, and Filipino stick fighting events. He has participated in over six Dog Brother Gatherings, earning the Full Dog Brother status with the name ‘Heathen Dog’.
Certifications and Ranks:
- Kru under Ajarn Surachai Sirisute in the Thai Boxing Association of the United States.
- Yellow Glove in Savate under Professor Nicolas Saignac.
- Apprentice Instructor under Guru Dan Inosanto in Filipino Martial Arts and Jun Fan Gung Fu/Jeet Kune Do.
Edessa Reed
Edessa Reed has been training in Thai Boxing, Jeet Kune Do, Savate and Filipino Martial Arts since 2017. She earned the rank of Apprentice Instructor in Thai Boxing, Jeet Kune Do and Filipino Martial Arts in April of 2024 as well as Red Glove in Savate. Edessa is also the owner of Black Optix Tint Fredericksburg. Edessa makes everyone feel welcomed in class with her lighthearted and jovial approach while at the same time giving everyone a good and intense workout.
Training Background: Edessa Reed has been training in Thai Boxing, Jeet Kune Do, Savate, and Filipino Martial Arts since 2017. Her dedication to mastering multiple disciplines has made her a versatile and skilled martial artist. With years of experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her training and instruction.
Competition Experience: While Edessa’s focus is on training and teaching, her intensive practice in multiple martial arts disciplines reflects her commitment to honing her skills and understanding of competitive techniques. Her experience ensures students learn techniques that are both practical and effective.
Certifications and Ranks:
- Apprentice Instructor: Thai Boxing, Jeet Kune Do, and Filipino Martial Arts (Earned in April 2024)
- Red Glove: Savate
Shane Meisner
Training Background: Shane Meisner has been immersed in martial arts training since 2016, specializing in Thai Boxing, Jeet Kune Do, Savate, and Filipino Martial Arts. His dedication to these disciplines is evident in the expertise and passion he brings to every class he teaches. When Shane isn’t in the gym, he’s piloting planes for American Airlines or fulfilling his duties as a commanding officer in the Navy Reserve. His leadership skills and attention to detail make him an invaluable instructor who is both friendly and incredibly helpful to students.
Competition Experience: While Shane focuses on teaching and sharing his knowledge, his extensive training reflects a deep understanding of the techniques and strategies needed for competitive and practical applications of martial arts.
Certifications and Ranks:
- Apprentice Instructor: Thai Boxing, Jeet Kune Do, and Filipino Martial Arts (Earned in April 2024)
- Red Glove: Savate
Jason Creswell
Coach Jason Creswell, is a Major (Military Police Officer) in the United States Army National Guard (AGR T10 – Active Duty). The last 9 years he has studied various martial arts styles under Professor Andrew Heatwole at the Valhalla Academy of Martial Arts, in the following styles:
– Grappling System: Brazilian Jujitsu (BJJ) and Combat Submission Wrestling (CSW) – holds a Purple belt.
– Striking System: Thai (MT), Savate and Jeet Kun Do (JKD) – holds a Blue belt.
– Weapons System: Filipino Martial Arts (FMA); stick and knife – a Level 3.
Additionally, Coach Jason has also studied Okinawan Karate for over 25 years, and currently holds the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt in Isshin-ryu Karate-Do; he has instructed Isshin-ryu Karate for 20 years. Coach Jason is also a Certified Personal Trainer and Competitive Powerlifter.
Dave Sheppard
Josh Brown
What We Offer
Our comprehensive training programs include:
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- Combat Submission Wrestling (MMA)
- Muay Thai/Thai Kickboxing
- Western Boxing
- Savate
- Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do
These diverse disciplines ensure that students receive a well-rounded martial arts education, emphasizing practical self-defense and overall fitness.