Coach & Community Relations Director

Chad Nolan began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2017, originally drawn to martial arts as a way to sharpen his off-season conditioning for rugby. With a strong background in MMA and Muay Thai, Chad already had combat sports experience — but Jiu-Jitsu quickly became something more than cross-training. It became a new way to challenge himself and continue evolving as both an athlete and a leader.

Before stepping fully onto the mats, Chad built an impressive rugby career spanning over 20 years at the club and representative levels. He earned selection to play for the Canada Grizzlies against Ireland twice and Wales in 2024 — a testament to his grit and resilience. In fact, after having a finger amputated following his first Super League season, Chad made the decision to continue competing — a powerful reflection of the relentless mindset he carries into everything he does.

On the mats, Chad jokingly names “Mother’s Milk” as his favourite submission, and he thrives in the pressure and control of side control. His style reflects his personality — steady, powerful, and composed under pressure.

As a coach, Chad’s proudest moments have nothing to do with medals, points, or podium finishes. Having coached girls rugby for 16 years and now both kids and adults in Jiu-Jitsu, what matters most to him is transformation. He finds deep fulfillment in watching people become who they’re meant to be — seeing a child’s confidence grow, watching women learn to protect and control larger opponents, and witnessing everyday students discover strength they didn’t know they had.

He describes his coaching style in three words: empowering, relentless, encouraging.

To anyone nervous about starting, Chad understands. He wants you to know that:

"Walking into a Jiu-Jitsu gym can feel intimidating — I want to remind you that everyone remembers their first day. At Union JJ, you won’t walk alone. While Jiu-Jitsu may be an individual sport, it takes a team to prepare, support, and grow."

For Chad, Union JJ is more than family. From brand-new white belts to seasoned veterans, he learns from every single person, every single day. What makes Union different? The community has no equal. The culture of support, the commitment to giving back through events and initiatives, and the pride taken in maintaining one of the cleanest training environments around — it all speaks to something bigger than just martial arts.

At Union JJ, Chad isn’t just building stronger athletes. He’s helping build stronger people — and he’s proud to be part of a team that shows up for each other both on and off the mats.