Professor / Black Belt

Driven by her competitive nature, Kay sought out a new challenge in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has been training for over 14 years.

Kay holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and has 12 years of experience as a school teacher. She brings her expertise in education into every class, skillfully adapting to different learning styles while instilling core values such as discipline, respect, and good sportsmanship.

A passionate advocate for women in Jiu-Jitsu, Kay encourages women of all ages to step onto the mats and experience the many benefits of training. She is also a proud mother of three children, all of whom she has been training since childhood.

Alongside her husband, Kay actively advocates for individuals with developmental disabilities and works closely with Texas Partners in Policymaking to support and empower families in the community.

Professor / Black Belt

Originally from China, Peng moved to the United States at 17 and soon enlisted in the U.S. Army in pursuit of a better life. During a 2010 deployment to the Middle East, he was struck by an IED and sustained serious injuries, leading to multiple surgeries and years of recovery. He was awarded the Purple Heart and is a retired combat veteran.

In 2015, Peng began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, quickly developing a passion for teaching and problem-solving despite the limitations from his injuries. After nine years at Peak Performance in Watauga, Texas, he relocated with his family to Pharr, where he now trains and teaches at Checkmat South Texas.

Peng is a dedicated instructor who encourages students to think critically, ask questions, and grow through challenges. He believes Jiu-Jitsu teaches how to stay calm under pressure while building problem-solving skills and humility.

Instructor / Brown Belt

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, AJ began his journey in combat sports through amateur MMA, kickboxing, and Muay Thai before ultimately dedicating himself to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He enjoys competing in IBJJF events alongside his children, cooking, and is an avid outdoorsman.

As a father of two, AJ takes pride in sharing Jiu-Jitsu with his children, using it as a tool to teach life lessons, build confidence, and develop the ability to defend themselves; both on and off the mat.

Coach / Purple Belt

The son of two black belts, Ryan has spent his entire life on the mats studying the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He actively competes on the IBJJF circuit, striving to grow and establish himself as an elite grappler.

He currently is pursuing his college education in business, and enjoys cooking, spending time with family, and watching MMA and Jiu-Jitsu in his free time.

Coach / Purple Belt

Justin has been an athlete and competitor for much of his life, pursuing excellence across a variety of disciplines. As the son of a coach, he was raised to chase his ambitions with pride, determination, and relentless passion. He has competed in multiple IBJJF tournaments, experiencing both victory and defeat; each shaping his growth on and off the mats.

He is a graduate of St. Edward’s University and is currently pursuing his master’s degree, with aspirations of becoming an attorney.

In his free time, Justin enjoys watching sports; baseball, basketball, football, hockey, MMA, and more. He is an avid sports card collector, with a particular passion for collecting athletes who played on the teams he grew up watching.

Alongside his family, he helps operate the Robert Gongora Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring his father’s legacy by providing opportunities for higher education and mentorship to youth in the community.

Justin also operates JXG Marketing & Design, where he provides website design and marketing consultation services to a variety of businesses in the local community. He is proudly the creative mind behind the Checkmat South Texas website and its marketing initiatives.

Coach / Purple Belt

Milton is deeply passionate about Jiu-Jitsu and competition. He has had the opportunity to compete in over 10 tournaments, earning multiple medals; bronze, silver, and gold, in both gi and no-gi divisions across various weight classes.

His experience on the mats has been both demanding and rewarding, helping build discipline and resilience. Outside of training, he is a fiery fan of racing and enjoys spending time caring for his two French Bulldogs.

Coach / Blue Belt

Ryu is a passionate martial artist who values building meaningful connections both on and off the mat. He has competed and excelled at the highest levels of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, earning the distinction of being ranked #1 in the world in his age and weight class by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation.

A two-time national champion, Ryu has also competed in the largest Jiu-Jitsu tournament ever held, and continues to push himself among the sport’s elite.