Club Pictures
Chief Jiu-Jitsu Instructor
Dan Poirier
My journey in martial arts began in 1974 under the guidance of Shihan Ronald Forrester at the Hatashita Dojo in Oakville.
Fast forward to November 1981, a significant milestone was achieved as I earned the esteemed rank of 1st-degree Black Belt (Shodan).
In that same year, I was honored to receive the Certificate of Recognition in Jiu-Jitsu from the Government of the Province of Ontario, a distinction personally presented by Premier William Davis.
The year 1992 marked another notable achievement as I obtained certification as an Official International Referee in Jiu-Jitsu, a testament to my unwavering dedication and expertise in the discipline.
In 1992, I had the privilege of serving as a referee at the World Jiu-Jitsu Championships in Argentina, where Canada secured the prestigious First-Place victory.
From 1980 to 1998, I dedicated myself to the role of Assistant Jiu-Jitsu Instructor at the Oakville Y.M.C.A., sharing my knowledge and passion with enthusiastic students.
Since 1998, I’ve had the honor of holding the esteemed position of Chief Jiu-Jitsu Instructor at the Oakville Y.M.C.A., where I’ve continued to nurture the growth of this martial art.
In November 2011, my dedication and expertise were recognized as I reached the illustrious rank of 7th-degree Black Belt (Shichidan).
In April 2013, I expanded my contributions to the martial arts community by becoming a Member of the Canadian Jiu-Jitsu Council Grading Board, further solidifying my commitment to the discipline.
In September 2023, I attained the remarkable rank of 8th-degree Black Belt (Hachidan), further exemplifying my unwavering dedication to the martial arts.