Our Coaches

Dawn Rae Culgin’s Martial Arts journey started as a teenager when she joined a Karate school. After 30+ years of experience – having trained in Karate, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Boxing – she created Sudbury Kickboxing Academy, a dojo focused on Kickboxing and Muay Thai with the foundations of Karate etiquette and respect.

In 2012, after years of dedicated training, Dawn became a competitive kickboxer competing Internationally, Nationally, and Provincially. She was a multi-time K1 Champ, Low Kick Champ, North American Grand Prix Champ, and a WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations) bronze medalist. Dawn represented Team Canada on four occasions at World’s in Brazil (2013), Serbia (2015), Ireland (2015), and Hungary (2017). Dawn is a third-degree black belt in traditional Okinawan Goju, RyuSyoKai and also one of four WAKO Canada National Team Coaches for the 2022-2024 term.

Andy is the master of shenanigans and the heart of our club. He’s the one who always knows how to keep things positive and make everyone laugh. With years of experience in ground arts, Andy has become an invaluable member of our team.

He’s not only a supportive partner to Coach D, but a skilled coach in his own right. From supporting Coach D in her competitive years to stepping up to learn new skills as a coach, Andrew has shown a decades-long dedication to personal growth and development.

Not only has he thrived on the mats, but he’s also stepped into the ring as a veteran competitor in K1, Kick Light, and Low Kick, while continuing to chase his own goals. Andy has developed his expertise in fitness leadership and direction as a certified Level 1 & 2 WAKO Coach and has completed the WAKO Officials course, making him a knowledgeable and well-rounded leader.

With Coach Andrew in your corner, you’ll find the motivation, encouragement, and support you need to reach your own goals.

Meet Coach Angela—a true standout on our mats. An original graduate of our Team Onna Bugeisha program, she’s exceeded even her own expectations. Today, she’s not only one of our strongest Full Contact Competitive members but also a key part of our Instructing team.

Coach Angela is a highly motivating and energetic coach, loved by all members and teammates. Her enthusiasm is contagious whether she’s instructing a class or training. She’s always willing to train with members of any skill level, and her dedication to her own personal growth serves as an inspiration for others.

She’s the perfect example of how taking baby steps turn into giant Leaps. Not only has she achieved her weight loss goals and reshaped her life, but she’s also become a role model for others showing how to thrive and grow by stepping out of your comfort zone. And while she’s great as a coach, you might want to think twice before gloving up with her, because she’s a beast!

Coach Lynn is the epitome of hard work and dedication. A 2012 graduate of the Team Onna Bugeisha program, she has transformed her life through unwavering commitment, countless hours on the mats in any class, and has a mindset of accountability.

As a National Kick Light Champion and a Level 1 WAKO Certified Coach, Lynn brings real-world experience to every class. Known as one of the hardest workers in the room, she leads by example, inspiring others with her positive attitude, open mind, and generosity in mentoring.

Coach Lynn’s journey is a testament to the empowering impact of the Team Onna Bugeisha program for women. She proves that with focus, effort, and determination, anyone can achieve their health and fitness goals—and set the bar as high as they choose.

Coach Andrea, also known as Witchy Fist, is an alum of our Team Onna Bugeisha program and a valuable member of both our Instructing and Competitive Team. As a Level 1 WAKO Certified Coach, Andrea is living proof that our approach and processes truly work.

She’s highly skilled and has put in the time to sharpen her skills and knowledge, always pushing herself to improve, whether it’s being an awesome training partner, a dedicated instructor in class, or a fierce competitor in Kick Light.

With an open mind and a constant drive to grow, Andrea is always eager to give words of encouragement for her students and teammates. She’s a valuable member of our team and an inspiration to many of our students.

Meet Coach Jocelyne, aka Mama Joce – a proud graduate of our Team Onna Bugeisha program and a Level 1 WAKO Certified Coach. Known for her high energy on the matts, goal-driven mindset, and dedication, Coach Joce actively contributes to club initiatives like fundraising and event planning, making her a beloved member of the team.

Don’t let her big heart fool you – Mama Joce is also a Provincial Kick Light Champion, a formidable Hydrox competitor, and always ready to put on gloves and shins to showcase her skills and toughness.

Meet Coach Craig—our resident boxing expert. He joined us in 2020 as a retired pro-level competitor with a strong amateur record. He is a Level 1 WAKO Certified Coach, that primarily runs our Boxing Focus Mitt class.

Coach Craig brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from the boxing world. Known for his positive attitude and open-minded approach, he often designs boxing drills that can easily be applied to kickboxing.

His calm coaching style is one of his greatest assets, allowing him to effectively demonstrate, communicate and adapt his lesson plan to a diverse group of students with varying skill levels. He truly is a valuable addition to our team.

Widow is a true pioneer in our local kickboxing community, bringing years of experience and expertise to our team. As a Level 1 WAKO Certified Coach, he not only talks the talk but also walks the walk.

Known for his no-excuses attitude, Widow earned the title of 165 lb Northern Fights 4-Man Tournament Champion through dedication and hard work. Whether coaching or training alongside our up-and-coming athletes, he leads by example and isn’t afraid to push limits. Get ready—Widow tells it like it is and encourages everyone around him to do the same.

Coach Keenan, a WAKO Century Cup Low Kick champion, is dedicated to his health and perfecting his craft. He is known for his leadership in the gym and his ability to inspire everyone. With a positive attitude and an open mind, he encourages growth, resilience, and respect both inside and outside the ring. Having learned lessons firsthand through hard work and perseverance, he is passionate about paying it forward—helping others reach their potential while fostering a supportive, high-energy training environment. A club favorite, we see huge things for Coach Keenan in his future.

Meet Coach Gillian, the newest member of our coaching team! As a WAKO Level 1 certified coach, Gillian embodies dedication and perseverance. She began her kickboxing journey just over two years ago and has steadily progressed by setting—and smashing—small goals along the way. Always eager to grow, she embraces every opportunity to learn and expand her skills. With a strong mindset and a rich background in dance, Gillian has proven herself to be a fast and adaptable learner. Her commitment and drive have already led her to become a WAKO Century Cup Kick Light Champion.