BKD Coaching Team

If you are looking for someone to help you learn the dynamic BKD program look no further than our Coaching Team. Our coaches come from all walk of life and from all backgrounds. Some are martial artists, some are police and security, but what they all have in common is a passionate dedication to helping people learn to defend themselves and lead a more positive and confident life.

If you can't find someone in your area, maybe you too can be part of our dynamic Team of Coaches. Check out our certification process here:

Newcastle, UK

Matthew Teasdale

Founder and Head Coach

My passion is teaching and training martial arts and inspiring my students to live their best lives. I constantly strive to develop my teaching methodology to give my best to my students.

I am so excited to bring the BKD training to all of my students and help them develop real world confidence in their self-defence abilities.

I have been teaching martial arts since 1996 and am very grateful to have achieved instructor ranks in the arts of Muay Thai, Kali, JKD, and Grappling.

Newcastle, UK

John Griffith

Club Coach

I like to use martial arts to keep fit, relax and get away from lifes worries. I greatly enjoy seeing the students develop confidence and pride as they grow in ability and fitness levels. I began training in my teens, studying Kung Fu and Kickboxing. I resumed my training with Matt Teasdale in several arts in 2008.

I have achieved instructor rank in the arts of Muay Thai, Kali and Kickboxing.

Ashington, UK

Jonnie Callan

International Coach

I've been fascinated with martial arts for as long as I can remember, training as a child in Karate and Kung Fu before finding Team Phoenix in 2004. Since then, I've trained and graded in Jun Fan/ JKD, Kali, Muay Thai and Shoot wrestling.

I have a passion for coaching and feel privileged to be in a position where I can help people by sharing something I love!

Newcastle UK

Jari Palari

Club Coach

Newcastle, UK

Brian Watson

Club Coach

Newcastle, UK

Dr Barry Gallacher

Club Coach

Leuven, Belgium

Tim Iliaens

International Coach

Hello everyone!

My name is Tim, and I reside in Belgium. I am deeply passionate about martial arts, teaching, and all related aspects. I take immense joy in guiding individuals on their martial arts journeys and helping them become physically and mentally stronger.

I started my martial arts training with Savate in 1994. In 1998, I branched out into Muay Thai. In 2010, I started training with Matt at Team Phoenix Martial Arts.

I have achieved Instructor ranks in the arts of Muay Thai, Kali and Monkey Mind Self-Defence.

In addition to my Martial Arts pursuits, I serve as a police officer in Leuven, Belgium, where I work in the intervention department. The skills I've acquired through training with Matt have proven invaluable in my daily duties.