Meet The Coaches
Kenneth Higgins Head Coach of Team Ryano Portlaoise, a Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Blackbelt under Andy Ryan. Kenneth is passionate about building a strong, welcoming martial arts community in the heart of the Midlands. With 15 years experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Gi & No-Gi), Submission Grappling, Wrestling, and MMA, I focus on delivering high-quality, structured training for all ages and levels — from kids aged 4+ to complete adult beginners and competitive athletes.
My goal is simple: help every student develop real skills, confidence, discipline, and fitness in a positive, ego-free environment. Whether you’re looking for self-defence, competition preparation, or family fitness, I’m here to guide your journey.
Neil Tynan
Hi, I’m Neil Tynan.
I’m a Black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and the Head MMA Coach at Team Ryano Portlaoise.
I’ve been training in Jiu Jitsu, kickboxing, and MMA for over 15 years, and I’ve also competed in MMA.
In my coaching, I focus on helping students develop well-rounded skills, improve their technique, and build confidence in all aspects of their training.
Ryan Houlihan
Hi, I’m Ryan Houlihan.
I’m the Head Striking Coach and Assistant Jiu Jitsu Coach at Team Ryano Portlaoise. I’ve got a brown belt in kickboxing and a blue belt in Jiu Jitsu.
I’ve been training and competing in kickboxing for over 10 years, and I’m also an active amateur MMA fighter, so I’m always learning and staying sharp.
In my classes, I focus on keeping things positive and helping everyone improve their technique, build confidence, and enjoy their training – whether you’re just starting out or have plenty of experience.
Callum Byrne
Hi, I’m Callum.
I’m a blue belt at Team Ryano Portlaoise and an assistant coach in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
I’ve been training and competing for over 5 years, and in that time I’ve become a 3-time World Champion and 2-time Irish Open Champion.
In my coaching, I focus on helping students improve their technique, build confidence, and enjoy their time on the mats, no matter their level.
Evan Reid
Evan Reid is a Black Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor and coach at Team Ryano Portlaoise, part of the respected BJJ Revolution / Carlson Gracie lineage.
A highly active and dedicated member of the team, Evan regularly competes in both gi and no-gi events at national and international levels, primarily in the -65kg division. He has represented Team Ryano Portlaoise at major events including Grapple Kings, Grapplefest, ADCC Irish events, and various IBJJF and open tournaments, earning multiple podium finishes and notable victories throughout his career.
