At TRITAC, we stand out by prioritizing values that truly make a difference:
COMMUNITY-FOCUSED
Our community is what makes us special. With a respect-first, ego-free atmosphere, we foster an environment where everyone supports each other's journey.
EXPERIENCED COACHES
Backed by over 16 years of expertise, our coaching team holds multiple black belts across various martial arts and boasts impressive competitive accomplishments. Their consistent track record of delivering results speaks for itself.
PERSONALIZED APPROACH
We believe in tailored solutions for every member. With small class sizes, individualized attention, and tools like periodic check-ins, TRITAC ensures your progress is never one-size-fits-all.
At TRITAC, we stand out by prioritizing values that truly make a difference:
COMMUNITY-FOCUSED
Our community is what makes us special. With a respect-first, ego-free atmosphere, we foster an environment where everyone supports each other's journey.
EXPERIENCED COACHES
Backed by over 16 years of expertise, our coaching team holds multiple black belts across various martial arts and boasts impressive competitive accomplishments. Their consistent track record of delivering results speaks for itself.
PERSONALIZED APPROACH
We believe in tailored solutions for every member. With small class sizes, individualized attention, and tools like periodic check-ins, TRITAC ensures your progress is never one-size-fits-all.
Formerly known as Cage JSA, TRITAC Training Center has deep roots in Cromwell’s martial arts community. For over 16 years, we’ve been a home for those seeking real results, personal transformation, and a passionate community rooted in martial arts and strength training.
TRITAC Training Center was born from a vision—Matt Bryers’ dream of the ultimate martial arts gym. As he says, “TRITAC is my dream of the ultimate martial arts gym”—a place where students could train in an environment of discovery, experience, and growth. From those early days as Cage JSA to the dynamic training center we are today, the goal has remained the same: to help people evolve, inside and out.
But TRITAC is more than just a name—it’s a unique training methodology. Developed by Matt and fellow martial artists, the TRITAC Martial Arts system blends multiple combat disciplines—including Japanese Jujitsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Kickboxing, and MMA—into a cohesive framework designed for real-world effectiveness and personal mastery.
Across our 2,200 sq ft of custom mat space, our cage, kickboxing area, and elite strength training facility, we’ve helped thousands of students achieve their goals. From beginners shedding 30, 50, even 100+ pounds, to martial artists earning black belts or stepping into the cage for the first time—we’ve been honored to walk with every one of them.
At TRITAC, you don’t just train—you transform.
Formerly known as Cage JSA, TRITAC Training Center has deep roots in Cromwell’s martial arts community. For over 16 years, we’ve been a home for those seeking real results, personal transformation, and a passionate community rooted in martial arts and strength training.
TRITAC Training Center was born from a vision—Matt Bryers’ dream of the ultimate martial arts gym. As he says, “TRITAC is my dream of the ultimate martial arts gym”—a place where students could train in an environment of discovery, experience, and growth. From those early days as Cage JSA to the dynamic training center we are today, the goal has remained the same: to help people evolve, inside and out.
But TRITAC is more than just a name—it’s a unique training methodology. Developed by Matt and fellow martial artists, the TRITAC Martial Arts system blends multiple combat disciplines—including Japanese Jujitsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Kickboxing, and MMA—into a cohesive framework designed for real-world effectiveness and personal mastery.
Across our 2,200 sq ft of custom mat space, our cage, kickboxing area, and elite strength training facility, we’ve helped thousands of students achieve their goals. From beginners shedding 30, 50, even 100+ pounds, to martial artists earning black belts or stepping into the cage for the first time—we’ve been honored to walk with every one of them.
At TRITAC, you don’t just train—you transform.
Matt Bryers is the owner and head coach of TRITAC Training Center with over 30 years of martial arts experience. He holds black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Japanese Jujitsu and has trained extensively in Kyokushin Karate, American Kickboxing, Wrestling, Judo, Arnis/Kali, and modern combative systems like Defence Lab and Keysi. Matt has competed in a wide range of disciplines – from BJJ and MMA to Kyokushin full-contact karate and even Strongman competitions. With more than 15 years as a coach, he has mentored thousands of students, produced hundreds of competition medalists in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, and coached multiple professional fighterstritactrainingcenter.com. Matt also co-created the TRITAC Combatives self-defense program, teaching practical techniques now even integrated into local school curricula for safety. As a coach, he is passionate about personal growth through martial arts; he loves watching students of all levels gain confidence, skill, and strength under his guidance. Matt’s coaching philosophy blends real-world self-defense with proven sport-fighting tactics, delivered in a professional and supportive manner that motivates beginners and seasoned athletes alike.
Ruben Gallego is a combatives and self-defense specialist who leads our TRITAC Unarmed Combatives program. He brings an international perspective to the gym, having trained across multiple disciplines from boxing and kickboxing to modern reality-based systems. Ruben is a certified Defence Lab instructor and has years of experience teaching practical self-defense techniques in seminar settings around the world. His approach focuses on no-nonsense tactics that work under real-world conditions – from managing confrontations to defending against multiple attackers or weapons. Ruben’s background includes exposure to the Keysi Fighting Method and other progressive combat arts, which he integrates into the TRITAC system for a comprehensive self-defense curriculum. As a coach, he is energetic and detail-oriented, ensuring every student learns proper technique and develops true confidence. Ruben’s passion is empowering students of all levels to stay safe and strong; beginners appreciate his patience and clarity, while advanced practitioners value the depth of his combatives knowledge and realistic training scenarios.
Oz Pariser is a former professional MMA fighter and an accomplished martial artist known for technical precision in both striking and grappling. He holds a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt as well as black belts in Kobukai Jujitsu and Kyokushin, showcasing his diverse skill set. During his fighting career, Oz compiled an impressive 4–1 pro MMA record and earned a reputation for methodical, high-level technique. Now a dedicated coach, Oz brings the same detail-oriented approach to the mats. He excels at breaking down complex movements – whether it’s a BJJ guard pass or a Kyokushin kicking combination – into fundamentals that students can grasp and apply. Oz’s classes blend the discipline of traditional arts with the realities of modern MMA, all in a safe and controlled environment. He is passionate about helping students of all levels progress, emphasizing solid basics and smart strategy for competition and real-world self-defense alike. Students appreciate Oz’s patient coaching style and deep knowledge, which inspire confidence and technical growth in everyone he teaches.
Ken “Sensei Kenny” Cotrona brings over 35 years of martial arts training and teaching experience to the team. He is a true multi-disciplinary expert with multiple black belts to his name – including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kobukai Jujitsu (5th degree), Hapkido, Judo, and Tae Kwon Do. Ken has also coached wrestling and has a knack for blending techniques from different styles into a creative, effective grappling system. He has helped train some of Connecticut’s toughest fighters and grapplers over the years, and he remains devoted to developing every student’s potential. As a senior instructor, Ken emphasizes strong fundamentals, fluid transitions, and adapting techniques to fit each individual. His teaching style is approachable and hands-on: he enjoys working with beginners to build a solid base just as much as he loves fine-tuning advanced students’ skills. Known for his enthusiasm and encyclopedic knowledge, Ken instills confidence in students of all levels – equipping them with practical self-defense skills and refined techniques for competition or everyday life.
Carlos Candelario is a UFC flyweight athlete and one of the top professional fighters to come out of New England. He compiled an impressive 9–1 record on the regional circuit, establishing himself as one of the best 125 lb fighters in the area, before signing with the UFC. Carlos is known for his explosive striking and well-rounded ground game – combining crisp boxing with elite Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling skills. As an MMA coach, he shares the high-level techniques and work ethic that propelled him to the sport’s biggest stage. Despite his elite background, Carlos remains friendly and dedicated to his students’ progress. He excels at teaching both fundamental and advanced MMA concepts, from footwork and clinch work to grappling transitions and fight strategy. Whether you’re a beginner learning basic combos or an experienced fighter refining your skills, Carlos’s passion for teaching and wealth of fight experience make him an invaluable mentor. He focuses on building each student’s confidence, conditioning, and technical ability, ensuring they develop both competitive skills and real-world self-defense readiness.
Chris Ahearn is the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at TRITAC Training Center, bringing 12+ years of experience in fitness and athletics coaching. He is certified by both NASM and ISSA, specializing in functional training that enhances athletic performance while reducing injury risk. Chris has worked with a wide range of clients – from martial artists and competitive athletes to individuals seeking fat loss and general fitness. As a competitive grappler himself, he understands the demands of combat sports and tailors his programs to build strength, agility, and endurance that translate to the mat. Chris’s coaching philosophy emphasizes proper technique, progressive improvement, and smart injury prevention; he ensures that students build a solid foundation before pushing to new levels. Known for his energetic and supportive style, Chris excels at motivating people of all fitness levels. Whether he’s preparing a fighter for their next bout or helping a newcomer get in shape, he remains patient, attentive, and results-focused. Under his guidance, students gain functional strength and confidence that benefit their martial arts practice as well as everyday life.
In 2022, I was a full-time working mom of three, exhausted and overwhelmed—managing type 1 diabetes, undiagnosed Hashimoto’s, and the weight of poor health. I didn’t know where to start, but I made a choice to put myself first.
I found a supportive gym, stuck to a simple nutrition plan, and committed to moving my body consistently. Over time, I lost 70 pounds and gained energy, confidence, and clarity.
By 2024, I knew my journey had a bigger purpose. Now, as a health coach, I help others ditch the all-or-nothing mindset and build healthy, realistic habits that actually stick. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about feeling strong and showing up for yourself.
Matt Bryers is the owner and head coach of TRITAC Training Center with over 30 years of martial arts experience. He holds black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Japanese Jujitsu and has trained extensively in Kyokushin Karate, American Kickboxing, Wrestling, Judo, Arnis/Kali, and modern combative systems like Defence Lab and Keysi tritactrainingcenter.com. Matt has competed in a wide range of disciplines – from BJJ and MMA to Kyokushin full-contact karate and even Strongman competitionstritactrainingcenter.com. With more than 15 years as a coach, he has mentored thousands of students, produced hundreds of competition medalists in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, and coached multiple professional fighterstritactrainingcenter.com. Matt also co-created the TRITAC Combatives self-defense program, teaching practical techniques now even integrated into local school curricula for safetytritactrainingcenter.com. As a coach, he is passionate about personal growth through martial arts; he loves watching students of all levels gain confidence, skill, and strength under his guidance. Matt’s coaching philosophy blends real-world self-defense with proven sport-fighting tactics, delivered in a professional and supportive manner that motivates beginners and seasoned athletes alike.
Matt Bryers is the owner and head coach of TRITAC Training Center with over 30 years of martial arts experience. He holds black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Japanese Jujitsu and has trained extensively in Kyokushin Karate, American Kickboxing, Wrestling, Judo, Arnis/Kali, and modern combative systems like Defence Lab and Keysi. Matt has competed in a wide range of disciplines – from BJJ and MMA to Kyokushin full-contact karate and even Strongman competitions. With more than 15 years as a coach, he has mentored thousands of students, produced hundreds of competition medalists in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, and coached multiple professional fighterstritactrainingcenter.com. Matt also co-created the TRITAC Combatives self-defense program, teaching practical techniques now even integrated into local school curricula for safety. As a coach, he is passionate about personal growth through martial arts; he loves watching students of all levels gain confidence, skill, and strength under his guidance. Matt’s coaching philosophy blends real-world self-defense with proven sport-fighting tactics, delivered in a professional and supportive manner that motivates beginners and seasoned athletes alike.
Ruben Gallego is a combatives and self-defense specialist who leads our TRITAC Unarmed Combatives program. He brings an international perspective to the gym, having trained across multiple disciplines from boxing and kickboxing to modern reality-based systems. Ruben is a certified Defence Lab instructor and has years of experience teaching practical self-defense techniques in seminar settings around the world. His approach focuses on no-nonsense tactics that work under real-world conditions – from managing confrontations to defending against multiple attackers or weapons. Ruben’s background includes exposure to the Keysi Fighting Method and other progressive combat arts, which he integrates into the TRITAC system for a comprehensive self-defense curriculum. As a coach, he is energetic and detail-oriented, ensuring every student learns proper technique and develops true confidence. Ruben’s passion is empowering students of all levels to stay safe and strong; beginners appreciate his patience and clarity, while advanced practitioners value the depth of his combatives knowledge and realistic training scenarios.
Oz Pariser is a former professional MMA fighter and an accomplished martial artist known for technical precision in both striking and grappling. He holds a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt as well as black belts in Kobukai Jujitsu and Kyokushin, showcasing his diverse skill set. During his fighting career, Oz compiled an impressive 4–1 pro MMA record and earned a reputation for methodical, high-level technique. Now a dedicated coach, Oz brings the same detail-oriented approach to the mats. He excels at breaking down complex movements – whether it’s a BJJ guard pass or a Kyokushin kicking combination – into fundamentals that students can grasp and apply. Oz’s classes blend the discipline of traditional arts with the realities of modern MMA, all in a safe and controlled environment. He is passionate about helping students of all levels progress, emphasizing solid basics and smart strategy for competition and real-world self-defense alike. Students appreciate Oz’s patient coaching style and deep knowledge, which inspire confidence and technical growth in everyone he teaches.
Ken “Sensei Kenny” Cotrona brings over 35 years of martial arts training and teaching experience to the team. He is a true multi-disciplinary expert with multiple black belts to his name – including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kobukai Jujitsu (5th degree), Hapkido, Judo, and Tae Kwon Do. Ken has also coached wrestling and has a knack for blending techniques from different styles into a creative, effective grappling system. He has helped train some of Connecticut’s toughest fighters and grapplers over the years, and he remains devoted to developing every student’s potential. As a senior instructor, Ken emphasizes strong fundamentals, fluid transitions, and adapting techniques to fit each individual. His teaching style is approachable and hands-on: he enjoys working with beginners to build a solid base just as much as he loves fine-tuning advanced students’ skills. Known for his enthusiasm and encyclopedic knowledge, Ken instills confidence in students of all levels – equipping them with practical self-defense skills and refined techniques for competition or everyday life.
Carlos Candelario is a UFC flyweight athlete and one of the top professional fighters to come out of New England. He compiled an impressive 9–1 record on the regional circuit, establishing himself as one of the best 125 lb fighters in the area, before signing with the UFC. Carlos is known for his explosive striking and well-rounded ground game – combining crisp boxing with elite Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling skills. As an MMA coach, he shares the high-level techniques and work ethic that propelled him to the sport’s biggest stage. Despite his elite background, Carlos remains friendly and dedicated to his students’ progress. He excels at teaching both fundamental and advanced MMA concepts, from footwork and clinch work to grappling transitions and fight strategy. Whether you’re a beginner learning basic combos or an experienced fighter refining your skills, Carlos’s passion for teaching and wealth of fight experience make him an invaluable mentor. He focuses on building each student’s confidence, conditioning, and technical ability, ensuring they develop both competitive skills and real-world self-defense readiness.
Chris Ahearn is the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at TRITAC Training Center, bringing 12+ years of experience in fitness and athletics coaching. He is certified by both NASM and ISSA, specializing in functional training that enhances athletic performance while reducing injury risk. Chris has worked with a wide range of clients – from martial artists and competitive athletes to individuals seeking fat loss and general fitness. As a competitive grappler himsel, he understands the demands of combat sports and tailors his programs to build strength, agility, and endurance that translate to the mat. Chris’s coaching philosophy emphasizes proper technique, progressive improvement, and smart injury prevention; he ensures that students build a solid foundation before pushing to new levels. Known for his energetic and supportive style, Chris excels at motivating people of all fitness levels. Whether he’s preparing a fighter for their next bout or helping a newcomer get in shape, he remains patient, attentive, and results-focused. Under his guidance, students gain functional strength and confidence that benefit their martial arts practice as well as everyday life.
In 2022, I was a full-time working mom of three, exhausted and overwhelmed—managing type 1 diabetes, undiagnosed Hashimoto’s, and the weight of poor health. I didn’t know where to start, but I made a choice to put myself first.
I found a supportive gym, stuck to a simple nutrition plan, and committed to moving my body consistently. Over time, I lost 70 pounds and gained energy, confidence, and clarity.
By 2024, I knew my journey had a bigger purpose. Now, as a health coach, I help others ditch the all-or-nothing mindset and build healthy, realistic habits that actually stick. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about feeling strong and showing up for yourself.
Whether you're 34 or 54, a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, you're welcome here. Every member of TRITAC is on a mission of growth, and we're here to guide that journey.
Beyond training, we foster a strong community through group outings, competitions, and events that bring members together—on and off the mats. It’s more than just classes; it’s about camaraderie, support, and pushing limits together.
Stop by to meet us or schedule a free intro session—we’d love to show you what makes TRITAC special.
Whether you're 34 or 54, a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, you're welcome here. Every member of TRITAC is on a mission of growth, and we're here to guide that journey.
Beyond training, we foster a strong community through group outings, competitions, and events that bring members together—on and off the mats. It’s more than just classes; it’s about camaraderie, support, and pushing limits together.
Stop by to meet us or schedule a free intro session—we’d love to show you what makes TRITAC special.
The hardest step is walking in the door
The hardest step is walking in
the door