about the coaches

Being identical twins Josh and Jordon’s parents say they have been fighting as long as they can remember.

In 1996 the twins started training traditional Ju jitsu and Muay-Thai in the hope they would stop fighting in the house.

It wasn’t long until a friend of their dads, suggested they go and train at a local academy called Stacksteads freestyle now known as Alfs black belt academy. It’s here under the guidance of Alf Love their passion for martial arts grew.

In 2001 Jordon became the first local kid to win the WKA British title also followed by a WAKO British title. At a charity fundraiser for the club, tragedy struck when Josh kicked Jordon and fractured his right eye socket. It was advised by the medical professionals Jordon must stop contact sports.

Following on from this Jordon continued his sports journey, joining Josh on the judo mats and also becoming an Olympic weightlifter under highly respected BWL coach Dave bell. In 20(insert year) Jordon won the under 23’s British championships and multiple northern titles.

Josh continued his Martial arts journey winning 6 national titles and the 2005 WKA world championship in Niagara Falls. He also spent a few years competing in Judo out of Bacup Judo club under Brian Moore and amateur boxing out of Sharples ABC under Glyn ward and Arthur Walsh.

Before meeting Mick Sinclair in the perform centre where he began training at Sinclair MMA under Mick and his brother Rob Sinclair, two pioneers of British mma. Josh went 2-0 in MMA but decided to stop competing in the cage.

In 2014 Josh made the decision to continue training Brazilian Jiu-jitsu under Predators MMA and BJJ head coach Gavin Boardman. With little persuasion Josh managed to get Jordon to join him on the mats.

Both twins are brown belts under Gavin Boardman and Rodrigo Auntunes.

BUNKER BJJ was set up in 2022. Initially in the Riverside health club. This lasted two weeks due to the health club having to close it doors. With a scramble to find a new venue Then original ‘Bunker’ was opened. The name came from a member due to the size of the original unit. ‘It’s like a bunker in here’.

Josh O'Connor

Code of conduct

At the Bunker, we strive to create a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all our members. This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for behavior and attitudes within our academy from all members and visitors.

Respect and Courtesy

Treat all instructors, training partners, and staff with respect.

Use polite language and maintain a positive attitude.

Any conflicts must be addressed directly to the coach in a respectful and polite manner, and we will endeavor to resolve the matter in a professional manner whilst safeguarding all parties involved.

Prioritize the safety of yourself and others during training.

Follow all instructions from instructors regarding techniques and training practices.

Tap out immediately if you feel compromised during sparring or drills. This is the best way to avoid injuries.

Ensure you follow the gym’s ethics on looking after each other and helping each other to grow in the sport and be mindful about other people’s abilities and experiences.

Maintain personal hygiene, practice good grooming habits.
Wear a clean Gi or appropriate training attire.

Wash your training gear after every session.

Ensure fingernails and toenails are trimmed.

Remove all jewellery to avoid injuring training partners.

If any red nasties appear on your skin, please avoid training and seek medical advice.

It is solely your responsibility to follow this procedure, if you’re found with any kind of contagious skin infection whilst training you will be asked to leave the mats and asked to seek medical treatment.

Participate actively in class; ask questions if unclear about techniques.

Be open to constructive criticism and feedback from instructors.

This is a professional environment, and the coaches are there to help you and support your growth in the sport, be respectful on your approach when receiving constructive feedback and criticism.

Embrace diversity and treat all members equally, regardless of background, gender, or skill level.

Harassment or discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated. Be extremely respectful and mindful on your language and comments and how this can be perceived by other members/visitors.

Disrespectful behaviour, comments or insinuations of any kind would not be tolerated and could lead to your membership be terminated and visitors to be banned from the gym.

Maintain a positive training atmosphere; support and encourage fellow practitioners.

Avoid excessive talking during instruction; focus on learning.

Respect the training space and equipment; keep it clean and organised.

Use the bins provided.

No chewing gum on the mats.

No eating on the mats.

No shoes on the mats.

Spar with control and respect; prioritise the safety of your partner. Acknowledge taps and adjust intensity accordingly. You must always maintain sportsmanship and be mindful of other’s experiences and skill levels.

Communicate with your partner about pace and comfort levels. (Men – This is especially important when rolling with women). Whilst there’s not inequality of gender, it is extremely important for all members to be respectful and mindful of the level of strength used in your rolls. You must have a regard for your partner’s welfare regardless of their gender, age or identity.

When representing the Bunker at external events, uphold the values and principles of our academy.

Wear academy gear proudly and conduct yourself with integrity.

Encourage your child/children but avoid coaching them during class. Also Please read our parents/carers code of conduct.

If you witness or experience any behavior that violates this Code of Conduct, report it to an instructor or academy management immediately!

Conclusion

By adhering to this Code of Conduct, we contribute to a supportive and respectful training environment that benefits all members. Let’s work together to cultivate our skills and foster camaraderie within the Bunker community.