Founding Member & Coach

Pat Whalen began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2013 with a simple goal: stay healthy while learning a vital life skill. Though he had brief experience training BJJ at 15 and spent a year training Japanese Jiu Jitsu in high school, it wasn’t until later that he truly committed to the art and embraced the long-term path of growth it offers.

As a founding member of Union JJ, Pat has been part of the academy’s culture from the very beginning. He has grown alongside the team, helping shape the disciplined, ego-free environment that defines Union today.

On the mats, Pat has a clear favourite — the triangle — and enjoys the versatility and movement that open guard provides. His style reflects confidence, timing, and a willingness to capitalize when opportunity presents itself.

What Pat loves most about coaching is that unmistakable moment when something clicks for a student. When a technique finally makes sense, when the timing lands, when understanding replaces confusion — that transformation is what fuels him. Seeing people connect the dots reminds him why he teaches.

He sums up his coaching philosophy in three powerful words:

"Work Beats Talent!"

Consistency, humility, and effort matter more than natural ability. Pat emphasizes discipline and resilience over shortcuts.

To someone nervous about starting, Pat offers honesty and challenge:

“That’s normal. This isn’t for everyone. You have to set your ego aside and understand that the first step to mastery is accepting failure. Do that for three months and you’ll become part of a very small group of trained individuals.”

For Pat, Union JJ is a safe place to learn and fail. It’s a space to grow, test your limits, and discover who you are — surrounded by friends walking the same path of discipline and self-discovery.

What makes Union different? You aren’t a number. You’re not just a member. You’re part of something bigger — a collective journey of growth and mastery. You’re supported and encouraged by people who have stood exactly where you are now. Union Jiu-Jitsu strengthens your body while sharpening your mindset.

Outside the gym, Pat brings that same passion to music. He plays in a country band, Deep Southwest, and runs a YouTube TV show — blending performance, creativity, and discipline in another arena.

At Union JJ, Pat represents accountability, hard work, and the belief that growth begins the moment ego steps aside.