Who you will train with

Coach Sean founded Trilogy in January 2017 after nearly 30 years of martial arts training. The name stands for the three disciplines that shaped his approach: Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Jeet Kune Do.

He started at seventeen in kickboxing under Matt Laurence. That path led him to Sifu Paul Vunak, a direct student of Guro Dan Inosanto, who worked closely with Bruce Lee on the development of Jeet Kune Do and was among the few personally certified by Lee to teach his martial arts. As a direct student of Sifu Paul, Coach Sean is second generation in the Inosanto lineage, with extensive training in JKD, Progressive Fighting Systems, weapons, and practical combat.

His primary focus today is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, approaching 13 years in the art. He trained under Professor Marcel Louzado and Master Fabio Santos, who awarded him his black belt. Master Santos is a direct black belt under Rickson Gracie, placing Coach Sean second generation in that lineage.

A major part of his work now is the Trilogy Kids Jiu-Jitsu Program, where martial arts is the vehicle for confidence, discipline, resilience, respect, and composure under pressure. Drawing on nearly four decades on the path, he also developed S.A.W. Systems, integrating striking, grappling, weapons, and hand-to-hand combat, and has trained law enforcement and military personnel.

Charlie Kohler is a lifelong martial artist, coach, and educator with more than 40 years of experience in martial arts including Brazilian jiu-jitsu, judo, boxing, MMA, and combat sports. Charlie is a local San Diegan, who attended Christian High School, Grossmont College, and graduated UCSD with a Bachelor's in Psychology and emphasis in premed.

As founder and head instructor of the San Diego Fight Club, he has trained and taught internationally, including in Brazil, Germany, Hong Kong, and Abu Dhabi. As an original member of the Abu Dhabi Combat Club, he has continued to learn from some of the world's most respected martial artists. Charlie has developed numerous championship competitors in jiu-jitsu, MMA, and other combat sports, promoted multiple black belts, and mentored thousands of students, many dozens of whom have become successful instructors and academy owners.

Charlie has developed a balanced approach to martial arts that emphasizes technical precision, discipline, and personal growth. Throughout his career, he has taught children, families, law enforcement, military personnel, recreational students, and professional fighters, creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals of all ages can build confidence and lifelong skills.

As an instructor, he focuses on fundamentals, physical fitness, mental resilience, and mutual respect. His goal is to make high-quality martial arts instruction accessible to the local community while inspiring students to become stronger, healthier, and more confident both in and out of the gym.

His mission is to preserve the traditions of martial arts while preparing the next generation of students, instructors, and champions.