Instructors
We’re so much more than a martial arts academy. We exist not only to develop our athletes, but also to support our communities here and in the Dominican Republic.
Creating a safe environment
Impeccable Facilities
Our facilities and equipment are constantly and meticulously cleaned with hospital grade disinfectant.
Strict safety protocols
Our programs are uncompromising when it comes to the safety and welfare of our athletes.
Certified coaches
Our coaches undergo thorough background checks and are certified through the US Centre for Safe Sport.
Supportive team
Our athletes and coaches foster a challenging yet respectful and supportive team dynamic.
Instructor Development Program
De la Costa Academy is a collaborative learning environment. We’re not just building athletes, but developing and empowering instructors.
In addition to our excellent roster of experienced instructors, we invite advanced athletes to teach areas where they demonstrate excellence. They develop as instructors and leaders while we as a team benefit from their insights into their particular expertise, all to the betterment of our programs.
Every one of our instructors, in addition to being experts in their field, receive training and certification from the US Center for Safe Sport and must pass a background check before teaching their first class. Learn more here.
In addition, all instructors are expected to:
Provide a safe, welcoming training environment, free from bullying and abuse of any kind.
Foster a collaborative culture, where experienced athletes are encouraged to support and mentor newer students.
Stay up-to-date on the latest trends, tactics and developments in our sport so as to be well-positioned to guide every athlete to excellence.
Joe Neurauter
Owner / Head Coach
Second Degree Black Belt BJJ (IBJJF certified)
Second Degree Black Belt Karate (Shito-Ryu)
Professional MMA experience (Rings)
Damien Sabourin
Instructor
Third Degree Black Belt BJJ
Connor Bennett
Kids & YOuth Instructor
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Blue Belt
BSc in Strength and Sports Conditioning
NCCP Coaching Certification
Evan George
Wrestling Instructor
Former varsity wrestler (University of Western Ontario)
Trained at HIT squad MMA (alongside such athletes as Matt Hughes and Robbie Lawler)
Former Professional MMA fighter
Dale Spencer
Morning Instructor
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Brown Belt
Professor in the Department of Law and Legal Studies (Carleton University)
What to expect
No pressure sales tactics.
No nickle and diming on fees.
No tribalism.
Just a deep talent pool, with every athlete fully invested in the progress and development of each of their teammates.
FUN
100%
SAFETY
100%
EFFECTIVENESS
100%
BADASSERY
100%
Ottawa’s Favourite Open Mat
Any athlete, from any academy, from any affiliation, always.
Our open mat sessions are fast becoming the place to be for drop-ins. Whether you live in Ottawa or are just passing through, looking for competition rolls or just to share the mats in a safe, welcoming environment, we’d love to have you share the mats with us.
(We don’t charge drop-in fees, but are more than happy to accept cash donations to our programs in the Dominican Republic instead).
Serving our community is in our DNA
The Academia de la Costa family of academies exists not only to serve its local members, but as an engine of opportunity for economically disadvantaged communities in the Dominican Republic, providing access to sports and membership to youth and children who might otherwise be left out.
Through the generosity of our members and visitors, De la Costa Academy Ottawa continues to support our sister schools programs – always have, always will.
