Coach Juan Romero has dedicated nearly two decades of his life to the martial arts. His journey began at the age of 18 as a Muay Thai practitioner, where he developed a passion for the discipline, technique, and personal growth that martial arts provides. Five years later, Juan transitioned into Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), combining his striking experience with grappling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to become a well-rounded martial artist and professional MMA fighter.
Throughout his martial arts career, Juan has continued to develop his skills in Muay Thai, MMA, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As an active professional MMA competitor, Juan continues to train, compete, and refine his craft. His commitment to ongoing improvement led him to join Aspire’s Taekwondo program as well, allowing him to expand his skill set, develop new techniques, and continue growing as a complete martial artist.
Juan’s connection with Aspire Performance Center began in a very personal way—as a parent. Juan came to Aspire with his two children, both of whom are on the autism spectrum, to participate in Aspire’s sensory-friendly martial arts program. After experiencing firsthand the welcoming and supportive environment Aspire provides, Juan quickly developed a passion for the program and wanted to contribute in any way he could.
That passion led Juan to become actively involved in Aspire’s sensory-friendly program, helping students beyond just his own children. His patience, understanding, and ability to connect with students have made him an important part of creating an environment where every child feels accepted, supported, and successful.
Juan also joined forces with Coach Steve to expand Aspire’s existing kickboxing program by adding Muay Thai instruction. He later partnered with Coach Tyler to help develop Aspire’s MMA program, bringing together his experience in striking, grappling, and mixed martial arts to help create a well-rounded training environment for students of all levels.
As an instructor, Juan is known for his patience, attention to detail, and ability to recognize each student’s individual needs. Students and parents regularly provide positive feedback about his teaching style and the way he builds confidence while helping students improve. His experience as a father of two children on the autism spectrum has strengthened his understanding that every student learns differently and that great coaching begins with listening, patience, and trust.
While Juan has the experience of a professional fighter, his greatest passion is helping others grow. Whether a student is learning martial arts for fitness, confidence, self-defense, personal development, or competition, Coach Juan strives to help each person become stronger both physically and mentally.
Coach Juan is proud to be part of the Aspire Performance Center team, where the mission is to build confident athletes, strong character, and a supportive community where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Train Hard. Stay Humble. Never Quit.
