our instructors

Kriya Hart is a Brown Belt instructor at The Brick BJJ who has trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since the age of eight and has competed since 2015. He is respected as one of the top competitors in the Pacific Northwest and brings a submission-focused style built on control, pressure, and decisive finishes. With more than 100 submission victories, his approach reflects a strong emphasis on attacking and finishing.

His years of consistent training and competition shape a technical, adaptable style that translates naturally to teaching. Kriya is known for breaking techniques down clearly, helping students understand not only what to do, but why it works.

He teaches students of all levels—from beginners stepping onto the mats for the first time to experienced practitioners refining their skills—emphasizing strong fundamentals, precise details, and a positive environment.

For Kriya, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than a sport; it’s a philosophy of life. The discipline, confidence, and mindset developed through training are values he is passionate about sharing with others.

At The Brick BJJ, Kriya is grateful to be part of a team that supports its members, challenges one another to grow, and shares a deep respect for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Brown Belt BJJ Instructors Quenton and Nicol at The Brick BJJ in Chehalis Washington

Nicol Hansen is a Brown Belt Instructor at The Brick and a dedicated martial artist who has been training mixed martial arts since 2013. With years of experience on the mats and in competition, Nicol has competed in multiple Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments and has stepped into the cage twice for mixed martial arts (MMA) bouts. Her competitive journey includes earning an impressive 3rd place finish at IBJJF Master Worlds, a testament to her commitment, discipline, and technical skill.


As an instructor, Nicol is passionate about bringing high-quality Jiu-Jitsu training to her hometown and creating an environment where students of all backgrounds can grow both on and off the mats. She believes Jiu-Jitsu is not only a powerful martial art but also a tool for building confidence, resilience, and community. Nicol’s long-term goals include continuing to compete at the highest levels and ultimately becoming a World Champion. She is especially passionate about encouraging and empowering women to step onto the mats, pursue their goals in Jiu-Jitsu, and realize their full potential. Through her leadership at The Brick BJJ, Nicol strives to inspire the next generation of athletes while helping every student develop strong fundamentals, a competitive mindset, and a love for the art of Jiu-Jitsu.

Quenton Hansen is a Brown Belt Instructor at The Brick where he teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai to students of all levels. Known for his technical precision and competitive mindset, Quenton brings years of high-level martial arts experience to the mats, helping students build skill, confidence, and discipline.

A dedicated competitor and practitioner, Quenton is a high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt with extensive experience in both gi and no-gi competition. Throughout his grappling career, he has tested his skills against elite opponents and developed a dynamic, pressure-based style rooted in fundamentals and intelligent strategy.

In addition to his grappling credentials, Quenton is an accomplished striker with amateur titles in kickboxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA). His well-rounded background in both striking and grappling allows him to provide students with a complete combat sports education, whether their goals are competition, self-defense, or personal fitness.

As an instructor, Quenton is known for his clear teaching style, attention to detail, and commitment to student development. He focuses on building strong fundamentals while helping athletes develop their own unique game. His classes emphasize technical mastery, conditioning, and the mental toughness required to succeed on and off the mats.

Through his leadership at The Brick BJJ, Quenton continues to foster a supportive and competitive training environment where beginners and experienced athletes alike can grow and reach their full potential.