Our Coaches

Austin Springer has spent nearly two decades in combat sports, first as a competitor and now as a coach who has walked every step of that path himself. His coaching résumé stretches from tumbling classes for three-year-olds to leading professional athletes into title fights, and his own record backs it up: four amateur championships, five professional championships, and pro fights in boxing, kickboxing, Bellator MMA, and the UFC, including a run on The Ultimate Fighter. That kind of experience isn’t something a coach can fake or fast-track.

On the mats, Austin holds his Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Fabiano Scherner and still competes in Jiu-Jitsu today. Outside the gym, he works full-time as a Firefighter for Clark-Cowlitz Fire and Rescue and owns NorthWest Championship, Vancouver’s premier fight promotion. Students training under Austin aren’t just learning technique from someone who has read about the sport. They’re learning from someone who has lived it at every level.

Chase Davis serves as Vancouver Elite’s head coach for both the adult and youth Jiu-Jitsu programs. With over 17 years of martial arts experience, including 12 years dedicated to Jiu-Jitsu, he holds his 1st-degree Black Belt under Fabiano Scherner and continues to train full-time, constantly refining his craft.

Chase has competed at several high-level events, including Submission Underground on UFC Fight Pass and the Eddie Bravo Invitational, along with numerous regional tournaments. A fierce competitor, he tests his skills both locally and nationally, most recently earning a victorious MMA debut with a first-round submission. His passion for the sport and depth of experience make him an invaluable mentor to his students.

Coach Dima Kozachok brings international competition experience to Vancouver Elite, having represented Ukraine as part of their National Muay Thai Team. He won numerous gold medals during his competitive career and placed 3rd at the World Muay Thai Championships, experience that shapes the way he coaches today. Beyond his own results, Dima has coached two individual athletes to World Muay Thai Championship titles, proof that his approach translates into results for his students.

Now retired from competition, Dima works full-time as a Vancouver Firefighter and EMT. In his spare time, he stays close to the sport through coaching and training, and also enjoys target shooting and crafting hand-made knives.

Eric Vasquez is Vancouver Elite’s longest-tenured member, having been an integral part of the team for over 15 years. He began his martial arts journey at just 14 years old and earned his first MMA victory at the impressive age of 16, starting a career built on the gym floor rather than the sidelines.

A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt under Coach Chase Davis, Eric brings that depth of experience into his coaching and continues to stay active as a Kickboxing competitor. Beyond coaching, he manages the gym, keeping it a welcoming and professional environment for every member. His dedication and passion make him a true cornerstone of the Vancouver Elite MMA community.

John brings a wealth of experience and accomplishments to Vancouver Elite MMA. A decorated professional fighter, John has held titles as an FCFF Champion and Main Event MMA Champion. Beyond his impressive MMA career, he is also a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Fabiano Scherner, showcasing his expertise across disciplines.

John has competed in the region’s largest events and has even showcased his skills on UFC Fight Pass. His extensive experience, both in competition and coaching, makes him a highly respected mentor for athletes looking to elevate their game.