Alliance Puyallup Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

John Cofer is the co-owner and head instructor at Alliance Puyallup, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to his students. A Navy veteran from the Gulf War era, John’s journey in martial arts began in the mid-1990s with Karate. His dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu truly took root in 1997 when he began training under Professor Claudio Franca in California.
After a hiatus from Jiu-Jitsu following his move to Washington state in 2007, John enthusiastically returned to training around 2013. His commitment culminated in receiving his black belt in 2017 from Professor Michael Feritter (LTG ret), and he currently holds the rank of second-degree black belt.
Beyond his role at Alliance Puyallup, John is deeply invested in giving back to his community. He spearheads Dominator Law Enforcement Defensive Tactics workshops, holding three events annually. Through these workshops, he has hosted over 20 events, providing free Jiu-Jitsu-based techniques to law enforcement officers across Western Washington. John is also an entrepreneur, owning Mattitude Jiu-Jitsu, a lifestyle clothing company.
When not on the mats, John cherishes time with his wife, Flora, and their family. His diverse hobbies include woodworking, baking cheesecakes, and cooking healthy, real food.

Justin Pollard-Myers is a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Co-Owner of Alliance Puyallup BJJ, and an Assistant Coach for both adult and youth classes. A retired U.S. Air Force Firefighter/EMT, Justin began training in October 2010 in San Diego and hasn’t looked back since.
As a cancer survivor and Afghanistan combat veteran (2001–2002, 2004), Justin brings unmatched resilience, discipline, and heart to the mats. His true passion lies in helping students grow—building confidence, character, and skills through Jiu-Jitsu. With a specialty in high-energy, competition-focused training, he’s committed to seeing every student exceed their individual and team goals.
When he’s not coaching, Justin enjoys kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, and spending time on the water—always chasing the next adventure.

Brooke is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt  and PMHNP-BC with a passion for helping others grow both on and off the mats. Her coaching reflects her passion for working with veterans and active-duty service members in the mental health care space, as well as her involvement with the We Defy Foundation, where they support the mission of empowering combat veterans through jiu-jitsu.

Jenny Liou is a Brazilian jiu jitsu brown belt and a retired professional fighter. She coaches women’s classes and actively trains and competes while parenting two young kids and balancing busy careers as an author, community college dean, and English professor. She particularly loves coaching and training no gi jiu jitsu due to her MMA roots, but she also enjoys the slow precision of the gi. Jenny whole-heartedly believes that jiu jitsu is for everyone and that today is the best day for you to step on the mats for the first time (or the ten thousandth).

Ms. Lynda has been a part of the Puyallup Studio since it opened back in 2022. She has four kids who also train and a grandson who just started the pre-school class. She is a four stripe white belt who is trusting the process. Some of her hobbies are traveling to tournaments, going for hikes, practicing yoga and she always enjoys a weekend at home. In the past she worked in the medical field as a medical assistant but currently is the New office manager of the Puyallup studio.

Michael Gutierrez is a dedicated martial artist and 2025 high school graduate with a strong passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. A purple belt training out of Alliance BJJ in Puyallup, Michael not only trains regularly but also gives back as a kids’ coach, helping young students grow in both skill and confidence on the mats. His love for the sport is matched by his enthusiasm for watching the UFC and learning more about the art of combat.

Outside of Jiu-Jitsu, Michael is focused on his future, with plans to serve his country through a career in the military-specifically in the Coast Guard or National Guard. He is driven by a deep sense of responsibility, both to his community and his family, and takes pride in supporting those around him in any way he can.