Tarquin Coles joined the Academy in 1997, after previously studying Karate for six years and having achieved his black belt in that discipline. He was the first member of the Academy to win a Sombo Wrestling black belt, when he became British Champion in the 90kg weight class in Bedford in 1998. Tarquin was awarded his CAMA Level I Grappling instructorship in July 2003. Although not teaching regularly at this time, Tarquin is often present at training sessions, and is a great training partner whether you are a beginner or an advanced student.