Matt Hansen is the Head of Operations and one of the partners of LŌKAHI. A purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Matt brings over two decades of martial arts experience, both as a student and instructor. Having also managed, operated, and scaled several businesses in the collision repair industry, Matt focuses on helping members with a seamless experience from the first time they walk through the doors.

Early Beginnings:

Matt started Jiu-Jitsu later in life. Having earned a second-degree Black Belt in Goju Ryu Karate, an Okinawan martial art, Matt was brought to his first Jiu-Jitsu class at the age of 40. Matt was looking for something more than traditional katas and movements of Goju Ryu, but he couldn’t have predicted the next evolution in his journey. 

Matt recalls attending his first class with a close friend who had taken just a few months of Jiu-Jitsu. Having trained together in Gojo Ryu for many years, Matt assumed his previous martial arts background would be more than sufficient to thwart the attacks of a new white belt. But to his surprise, Matt learned quickly how effective Jiu-Jitsu can be, even for someone who had taken just a few classes. This experience proved to be a pivotal one, giving his addictive personality and energy a new focus. Matt believes that Jiu-Jitsu has provided him with physical wellness, an outlet for an active mind, and a builder of confidence and is passionate to help others discover this for themselves.

Personal:

Outside of the gym, Matt can be found watching Magnum P.I., enjoying target practice with his son Keagan, spending time with his daughter Katelyn, or taking orders from his loving wife of 25 years, Erin. 

Fun Facts:

Favorite food: Chicken Parmesan (easy on the red sauce)

Favorite Jiu-Jitsu technique: The dirty wrist lock

Spirit animal: The sewer rat – an animal known for its cunning instincts and survivability in even the harshest of conditions.