Our instructors are Gracie Barra Certified and continually refine their teaching skills.
Brian Cooley
Black Belt Second-Degree
ICP
Brian Cooley is a second-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Flavio Almeida and the head instructor at Gracie Barra Brentwood in Tennessee.
Brian discovered Jiu-Jitsu over a decade ago and quickly realized it was more than just a hobby — it became his passion. Today he spends his days on the mats teaching students of all ages and levels, from total beginners to experienced grapplers. His classes focus on strong fundamentals, smart technique, and keeping things fun and welcoming so everyone feels like they belong.
He still competes in the Master division when he can, but what he enjoys most is watching his students grow, gain confidence, and push through challenges. Brian trains and rolls right alongside his students because he believes the best instructors never stop being students themselves.
Outside the gym, Brian is a military veteran, husband, father and grandfather who loves using Jiu-Jitsu to build stronger families and a tighter community in the Brentwood area.
If you're in the area and thinking about trying Jiu-Jitsu, Brian and the team at Gracie Barra make it easy — no egos, no pressure, just good training and good people.
Natalie Cooley
Purple Belt
ICP
Natalie Cooley is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt, certified instructor, and co-owner of Gracie Barra Brentwood in Tennessee.
Natalie found her way into Jiu-Jitsu years ago and fell in love with how it builds real strength, confidence, and resilience — both on and off the mats. She especially enjoys teaching women’s self-defense classes and working with kids and families, creating a fun, supportive environment where everyone feels welcome and encouraged to grow at their own pace.
As a health coach with a passion for primal living and overall wellness, Natalie brings an extra layer of energy to the academy. She focuses on helping students improve their technique while also feeling stronger and more capable in everyday life. Whether it’s a women’s class packed with new faces or Little Champs sessions full of giggles and progress, she loves watching people light up as they discover what they’re capable of.
Outside the gym, Natalie is a wife, mom, grandmother, dog lover, and horse enthusiast who’s all about progress over perfection. She and Brian built their Gracie Barra location with the goal of making Jiu-Jitsu accessible and enjoyable for the whole family in the Brentwood area.
If you’re looking for a welcoming place to train, build confidence, or just try something new, Natalie and the team make it easy — no egos, plenty of encouragement, and a whole lot of good energy on the mats.
Russel Tyree
Purple Belt
ICP
Russell Tyree is a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and an instructor at Gracie Barra Brentwood in Tennessee.
Russell jumped into Jiu-Jitsu a few years back and got hooked on the challenge, the technique, and the way it pushes you to keep improving. Now he helps coach adult and kids classes, sharing what he’s learned with students of all levels while still training hard himself.
He brings a laid-back, encouraging energy to the mats — focusing on solid basics, fun rolls, and making sure everyone feels comfortable stepping up their game. Whether it’s helping newer students figure out their first escapes or rolling with the more experienced crew, Russell loves being part of the daily grind at the academy.
Outside the gym, Russell balances life as a dad, husband and enjoys the full Gracie Barra family vibe in the Brentwood area. He’s a firm believer that training Jiu-Jitsu makes you better in every part of life — tougher, sharper, and more connected with good people.
