Beacon MMA Founder & Head Coach

“Coach Kirby is everything a martial artist should be on and off the mat; I can’t imagine a better representative to fly the Beacon MMA flag.”

Fight Tips on YouTube

“I can tell you first hand that the instruction and attention that you will get at Beacon MMA is world class. The instructors are as passionate, patient, and professional as they come. You can expect a warm welcome to the gym, as they are accommodating to all levels of experience.”

“I’ve lost over 100 lbs. thanks to Beacon MMA! It wasn’t and ISN’T easy, but it’s fun!

I spend anywhere from 1 hour to upwards of 3 hours a day taking back-to-back classes with a community of coaches and athletes who give me constant support.

I’m never bored, and the coaches are great about making things I’ve learned already feel fresh. I can’t imagine a better place to smash my goals!”

“As an elementary school teacher with over a decade of experience, it became apparent to me immediately that Coach Kirby is a natural born teacher. If you have the chance to participate in or even observe any of his classes, you will see a master teacher at work.

His ability to convey his unbelievably deep understandings about the art of BJJ and its large and complex collection of techniques never ceases to amaze me. Whether he’s explaining a technique or principal of the art to a child or adult, he always does so in a way that is accessible, logical, and provides just enough details to students to provide the deepest understanding without overwhelming them. The environment in all his classes, whether his students are adult or children, is one that is ideal for learning and improving. The atmosphere in his classes are always safe, positive, respectful, and just the right balance of focused work and purposeful exploration. His infectious enthusiasm for BJJ is only one of the many traits that make him an outstanding coach, teammate, and representative of BJJ.”

I’ve had the absolute pleasure of being taught by one of the most compassionate yet stern people I’ve ever known, coach Kirby. I consider my myself and my kids amongst the lucky ones who have been able to be a few of his pupils. Coach Kirby’s attention to detail has helped me understand the importance of sound technique. It’s made me aware of always putting great effort in technique and not rely on just my strength. Coach Kirby’s dedication to pushing his students to be the best while being aware of the difficulties of anyone coming into BJJ has been essential for my learning journey. He is observant, kind, generous, stern, disciplined, and experienced. If I can add more adjectives I would. I can’t thank him enough for his guidance and his dedication to elevate everyone BJJ skills to their best level. I urge to anyone who’s either looking to join BJJ or anyone looking to elevate their skills look no further. In coach Kirby you’ll find the guide and experienced teacher anyone would dream of.

“I have had the privilege to train under Coach Kirby for several years now. Coach Kirby was not only a major part of my development and success, but one of the main reasons I've gained such an appreciation for the art. When first starting to train, I didn't know much at all about Jiu Jitsu, and Coach Kirby was a key component in helping develop my base knowledge and skill set that allowed me to feel comfortable and confident to continue to learn and evolve. From there, he was able to help me hone my skills and help guide me on a path to become a successful general practitioner, as well as participate and succeed as a sport competitor.

Coach Kirby is also an amazing role model. From seeing his family by his side participating, to watching him coach and guide the kids' classes, it is clear to see that Coach Kirby is a humble and patient instructor. Coach Kirby has an innate ability to teach and pass on his knowledge in a way that best suites his students.

It has been an honor to train under and learn from Coach Kirby. Coach Kirby is a top tier instructor and I have no doubt that Chapel Hill will benefit and thrive under his direction.”

“We have watched our son transform into a more confident and outgoing young man, and we can’t wait to see what the future has in store for him with Beacon MMA.”

“I signed up a year after enrolling my son in the kids program. I don’t know what I was waiting for!

I’m in the best shape of my life, and now have another activity to share with my son.

Don’t hesitate; it’s one of the best decisions you’ll ever make!”

“Coach Kirby is great with kids and an outstanding role model for them.

The kids look forward to class, holiday parties, team camping trips in the summer... it really has become a huge part of our lives.”

“Coach Kirby has a great blend of characteristics which make him well suited as a teacher. His impressive physical skills and encyclopedic understanding of the art makes him a wealth of knowledge…

…which is all well and good and expected from a black belt [and teacher], but what makes Coach Kirby stand out is his ability to teach these skills to you in a way that is easily understandable and applicable. I enjoy his teaching style, his ability to sometimes incorporate humor into the classes while still commanding respect and maybe most importantly he is someone you can always reach out to with your questions or concerns. I highly recommend you take a class and see for yourself.”

Beacon has changed my life. Since starting my journey there I have gained more knowledge, strength and confidence than I could have ever imagined.

New endeavors can be frightening, especially for someone as shy as I am. The community of athletes and coaches welcomed me in with open arms and the facility quickly became a second home.

The coaches have gone above and beyond to make me feel comfortable while also knowing how and when to challenge me to grow. It is evident that they truly get to know and care about each and every client. Coach Kirby believed in me since day one and (most importantly) helped me to believe in myself.

“I've had the honor and privilege to learn under Coach Kirby for several years and to say that my jiu jitsu has grown leaps and bounds would be an understatement. I've seen first-hand how he is able to work with people of all ages. Kirby is truly a master of his craft, being able to facilitate in a way that very few are able to.He's also made a positive impact in my life outside of the gym as well, as he is an outstanding role model to everyone that is fortunate enough to spend time with him. I'm fortunate to not only call him a coach, but a friend as well. Chapel Hill is getting a top level coach.”