Striking Instructor

Skye Folsom began training in martial arts as a child and started competing in MMA as a teenager. He developed his foundation at the Dog Pound Fight Team, a gritty, wrestling-heavy gym known for its pressure-based style. His early fight career tested his resilience and shaped the toughness and humility that still influence his coaching today.

Skye went on to capture the Fusion Fight League Amateur Featherweight Championship and later competed professionally in Montana, Washington, and Canada, earning a 3–1 record. After competing, he shifted his focus toward coaching and developing athletes.

A pivotal chapter in his journey came when he spent three months training in Thailand, living the “train, eat, sleep, repeat” lifestyle alongside Thai fighters. There he learned the importance of play in training. When athletes feel relaxed and free to experiment, they learn faster and develop real confidence. This philosophy remains central to his coaching style today.

Skye later trained under Duane Ludwig at Bang Muay Thai in Denver, refining his understanding of combination flow, Dutch drilling systems, and the value of switching stances. He emphasizes fluid movement, efficient technique, and the ability to adapt in real time.

With over a decade of coaching experience, Skye is known for expert pad work, high fight IQ, and his ability to prepare fighters mentally for competition. His classes balance technical precision with a supportive, high-energy environment where students are encouraged to challenge themselves, stay playful, and grow.

Whether you are stepping onto the mat for the first time or preparing to compete, Skye meets you where you are and helps you improve with clarity, encouragement, and purpose.

He is honored to lead the striking program at Garth Taylor Jiu-Jitsu and remains committed to lifelong growth as both martial artist and coach.

For Skye, martial arts is a lifelong practice of growth, discipline, and becoming a better human being.

Accomplishments & Credentials