Club Pictures

Chief Jiu-Jitsu Instructor

Dan Poirier in the dojo

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.

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