After more than a decade at SBG Atlanta, Sean Coleman – our longest-tenured employee, and our “Master of Analogies” – is embarking on a new journey. As Sean transitions to a new career as an electrician, we reflect on his profound impact on our community and celebrate the legacy he leaves behind.
Sean’s story with SBG began when he first met Coach Phil Gentry in 2008, back when Phil was still a purple belt. The connection that started casually would grow into a life-changing relationship for Sean. Reflecting on those early days, Sean recalls:
“I was taking kickboxing classes and occasionally saw Phil at the gym. I eventually crossed over to give jiu jitsu a try, and Phil taught a class or two that I attended. When that gym closed, I started training in my garage and eventually invited Phil to come teach a seminar. That was the start of something much bigger.”
From there, Sean’s training at his garage transformed into full-time training at Phil’s new gym, Eagle Training Academy, which would eventually evolve into SBG Atlanta. Over the years, Sean has witnessed SBG Atlanta grow from humble beginnings – a small gym in a rough part of town – to the thriving, tight-knit community it is today. Sean’s influence has been integral to this growth. As both a coach and mentor, his contributions to the Tribe have been invaluable. He says,
“The Tribe has grown significantly. From maybe a couple hundred members in a DIY/fixer-upper gym with a leaking ceiling, to our upgraded facilities today, the growth has been incredible. One of the biggest moments for me was when Phil and Jim trusted me to teach full-time at our temporary second location in Sandy Springs. That’s when I really came into my own as a coach and a tribe-builder.”
Teaching and coaching at SBG allowed Sean to not only refine his coaching style but also bond with his three daughters through jiu jitsu. He reflects,
“Coaching the kids jiu jitsu program gave me an opportunity to bond with my daughters in a unique and valuable way. Watching them grow, alongside all of our students, has been one of the most rewarding parts of my time at SBG.”
Sean’s dedication to the tribe didn’t go unnoticed. He was instrumental in shaping the systems, coaches, and individuals within SBG. “Teaching someone from day one, and then later helping them earn their brown and black belts, has been incredibly rewarding. It’s like wanting your kids to be better than you. Seeing their growth over and over again is the absolute most rewarding aspect.”
Now, as Sean turns the page to a new chapter, his excitement for his next challenge is palpable. “I’ve always been drawn to trying new things and learning new skills. I’ve gone from finance to FedEx delivery, from owning a spa to coaching fighters. This chapter is dedicated to learning the electrical trade, and I’m excited to ‘empty my cup’ again and start as a day-one white belt,” he explains. Sean’s journey as an electrician will undoubtedly reflect the same growth mindset that has guided him through jiu jitsu.
When asked how martial arts has influenced his approach to starting a completely new career, Sean’s philosophy is simple:
“Every day, be ‘a white belt that never gave up.’ Always be coachable, always be learning.”
As Sean steps into his new career, he remains deeply connected to jiu jitsu and the SBG Tribe. Though his career focus may shift, his bond with the SBG community and his passion for martial arts remain at his core. “Jiu jitsu is in my DNA at this point. It’s so deeply a part of me that I’d be foolish not to continue leaning on it to improve everything in my life,” he says with conviction.
Coach Phil has this to say about Sean:
“Sean’s been my right hand man on the mats for many many years. I’ve always appreciated Sean’s commitment to personal growth. He’s a dedicated learner and is willing to try different approaches and ways of looking at life. I’m grateful to have had him help me grow SBG to what it is today over the years. I wish him nothing but success and prosperity as he embarks on this new chapter, and I’m excited to see him thrive in his new ventures. I will certainly miss working so closely with him, but am always thrilled to have him on the mats as an exceptional student and training partner.”
Just as he’s done in jiu jitsu, Sean is embracing the opportunity to start fresh, with an empty cup, ready to learn and grow all over again. It’s like rewiring a house: you strip things back to their basics, connect the right circuits, and suddenly, there’s light. We have no doubt that Sean’s journey as an electrician will follow the same path—methodical, deliberate, and ultimately illuminating (see the master analogy we made there, Sean?!)
Sean, a sincere thank you for your years of dedication, your contributions to our Tribe, and the impact you’ve made at SBG Atlanta. We are so proud of you and excited to see where this next chapter takes you. As you pursue your new path, we wish you the best of luck and know that your impact will continue to resonate within these walls, and with the many lives you’ve influenced, for years to come. We’ll be here cheering you on as you take on this new adventure.
Here’s to your next journey, Sean — and we can’t wait to see you on the mats!
