Instructors
Mike Buckels O'Fallon
Mike is a master level practitioner of the martial arts with over 25 years of experience and holding 6 degrees of black belt in various forms of martial arts including a 2nd degree black belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu under Master Carlos Gracie Jr. and professor Marcio Feitosa. Mike has over 30 Podiums in International, National and State martial arts competition including the IBJJF Pan American, Copa Pacifica, and WKSA World Championship making him one of the most decorated and experienced instructors in the area.
Steve Moellering O'Fallon
Coach Steve is a native St. Louisan and an avid outdoors man. He enjoys archery as well as marksmanship and pursues what ever he does with great passion and vigor. This had lead to a great many accomplishments in a short period of time. Steve is 2-0 in MMA with 2 submissions. He is a multiple time IBJJF medalist including the Pan American and World championships. He is a multiple time NAGA and AGF champion including victories at the AGF national championship.
Dominic Leucke O'Fallon
Coach Dominic began training in martial arts at the age of 16. After competing in a couple kickboxing fights, he found Gracie Barra. He quickly developed a deep passion for jiujitsu and mma. He commits to learning and training in the art full time under professor Mike Buckels. Currently he is the program director, kids coach, and jiujitsu competitor. He dedicates hours each day to training. Striving to attain the highest level of jiujitsu and Martial arts technique possible. Outside of the gym he enjoys hobbies such as hockey, fitness, nutrition, reading, hiking, and exploring new challenging activities.
JONNY KRUSE West County
Jonny has been involved in the sports industry for many years working for the NFL and the NHL. In 2011 he began working for Gracie Barra as the Regional Marketing Director and is currently the Kids Coach at Gracie Barra West County.
David Derstine West County
I discovered Jiu-Jitsu through the Modern Army Combatives Program while I was enlisted in the U.S. Army. I quickly became passionate and excited about grappling; mastering the martial arts became my life goal from that point on. Once I finished my contract, I almost immediately began studying at Gracie Barra in St. Louis under the teachings of Professors Mike Buckels and Jake Martin. Now almost four years into my journey, I train and compete avidly to hone my craft. I have earned medals in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and have recently been spending my free time practicing Judo. I will continue to compete and master my skills for as long that I am able. My goal is to guide individuals with my passion and knowledge; to anyone willing to accept the effort that it takes.