Gabby Best
Gymnastics, Ninja, & Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Gabby has been immersed in the world of gymnastics since the age of five, competing at a high level for nearly a decade before transitioning into dance and martial arts. She discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2016 and has been dedicated to the sport ever since, earning her purple belt in April 2023. As an active competitor and coach, she has competed in prestigious tournaments, including IBJJF Pan Ams, Worlds, Finishers Sub Only, and Fury Pro Grappling.
Her journey into ninja training began with Bayside, where she took on the challenge of studying and developing the program to help athletes grow. With over 11 years of coaching experience in gymnastics and two years in Jiu-Jitsu, Gabby thrives on helping athletes unlock their potential, gain confidence, and achieve their goals.
Outside of coaching, Gabby is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) working in Labor & Delivery. She enjoys reading, going to the gym, and spending time with her daughter—who was born during her time living on Guam for seven months.
Her guiding mantra?
“What is a person, if not the mark they leave behind?” – V.E. Schwab
Her advice for young athletes?
“Believe in yourself. Doubt fuels failure.”
Madison Graham
Gymnastics Coach
Originally from York, PA, Madison Graham found her passion for gymnastics at the age of four when her mom signed her up for classes. Though her own training journey took a different path in 2014, her love for the sport never wavered. She transitioned into coaching, knowing she wasn’t ready to step away from the gym. For Madison, gymnastics has always been about more than just skills—it’s about discipline, growth, and confidence, and she is passionate about passing those lessons on to her athletes.
With 11 years of coaching experience, Madison has worked with athletes across various disciplines, including recreational and competitive gymnastics, high school cheerleading, and ninja training. She strives to create an environment where young athletes feel supported, challenged, and empowered. Whether she’s guiding preschoolers through their first cartwheels or pushing team gymnasts to reach new goals, Madison values the relationships she builds with her athletes.
One of the most important lessons she hopes to instill in them is to always be the best version of themselves—whether that means pushing through tough training sessions or striving to grow outside the gym. She firmly believes that consistent effort, discipline, and a growth mindset are what truly set athletes apart.
Outside of coaching, Madison enjoys spending time with her family, tackling home projects, and being outdoors when the weather is nice. A unique part of her story is her connection to photography – her grandfather built a family business around it, and she now carries on that legacy with a collection of his vintage cameras and equipment.
Whenever challenges arise, Madison embraces the mindset of “We’ll figure it out”- a simple yet powerful reminder that perseverance and problem-solving can overcome any obstacle.
Coach Shawn Carn
Jiu-Jitsu Coach
With over 20 years of coaching experience, Coach Shawn brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the mats. His journey in martial arts began with wrestling at a young age, later expanding to karate, Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling, judo, and ultimately Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Inspired by his father, who coached him in various sports, Coach Shawn continues the tradition by helping young athletes focus, learn, and grow in the sport.
His impressive list of achievements includes:
🏆 PAWF State Wrestling Champion
🥋 Judo Brown Belt
🥈 2x IBJJF American National Silver Medalist
🥇 Multiple-time IBJJF Open, NAGA, and Goodfight Champion
🥋 Veteran Fight2Win Competitor
🥊 PGL Heavyweight Champion
Coach Shawn’s favorite part of coaching is seeing the joy on a student’s face when they realize how much they’ve learned. His personal mantra, “Focus and Finish,” reminds athletes to stay committed and see their goals through.
Outside of coaching, he enjoys computers, graphic design, puzzles, chess, bowling, and snowboarding. Fun fact? He’s ticklish, has a sharp memory for Jiu-Jitsu moves—but forgets names instantly!
His best advice for young athletes?
“Try it … What’s the worst that could happen? You fail. Now what did you learn? Now try it again.”
Sasha Hernandez
Gymnastics Coach
A Frederica native, Sasha Hernandez has been passionate about gymnastics since childhood, competing with all-stars in Camden. Now, as a coach, she’s excited to reconnect with the sport and share her knowledge with the next generation of athletes.
With experience as a tri-sport athlete in high school—playing volleyball, swimming competitively, and excelling in girls’ lacrosse—Sasha brings a well-rounded athletic background to her coaching. She knows firsthand the dedication and perseverance it takes to succeed and loves watching her athletes grow in skill and confidence.
Her favorite part of coaching is seeing her students improve over time, helping them develop a deep love for the sport. She encourages her athletes to always give their best, reminding them that “Every time you come to practice, give it your all. Your effort today shapes your success tomorrow.”
Outside of coaching, Sasha enjoys traveling (often without knowing her destination until she boards the plane, thanks to her stepmom’s job as a flight attendant), going to the beach, and running her side businesses. She lives by the mantra: “Don’t dwell on the past; it’s behind you for a reason. Look ahead with hope and determination, for every new day brings opportunities to learn, grow, and improve.”
Landon Sacks
Ninja Coach
Born and raised in Milford, Landon first started his ninja training at the very gym where he now coaches. Inspired by Gabby, he stepped into coaching two years ago and has been dedicated to helping young athletes build strength, agility, and confidence ever since.
Landon’s favorite part of coaching is conditioning—pushing athletes to test their limits and improve their endurance. He believes in the power of consistent effort and encourages his students to always strive to be their best, both in and out of the gym. His coaching philosophy is simple: “Just do it.”
Outside of coaching, Landon is passionate about firefighting, always looking for ways to challenge himself and serve his community. A fun fact about him? He has ferrets! He also lives by the motto: “The cost of not locking in is spending the rest of your life clocking in,” a reminder to stay focused and committed to your goals.
Paul Bowman
Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Paul began his Jiu-Jitsu journey as a way to challenge himself both physically and mentally. With a lifelong background in competitive swimming, baseball, and soccer, he thrives in athletic environments and brings that experience into his coaching.
As a Jiu-Jitsu coach for the past two years, Paul finds fulfilment in helping students grasp new concepts and develop a love for the sport. He believes that coaching not only helps others grow but also strengthens his own understanding and technique.
Outside of the gym, Paul enjoys attending his kids’ sporting events and playing the guitar. His biggest piece of advice for young athletes?
“Enjoy the process of learning. Focus on progress over perfection.”