Founder & Head Instructor
Joel Gelfand

Joel is one of the few instructors in Canada with combined experience in striking and grappling + expertise in personal protection and self-defence tactics. After earning his TKD Black Belt at age 13, Joel went on to train and compete in a variety of striking and grappling styles, including boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, and Judo. Awarded his BJJ Blue Belt under Carlson Gracie, trained at Atlas Boxing Gym with Canadian Champion Jonathan Bochner, and practiced Japanese Jiu-Jitsu with UFC Champion Carlos Newton. Students come to HOC for a unique 360 perspective on martial arts and self-defence free of dogmatic thinking and unrealistic beliefs. They stay because Joel's fun teaching style and personality make every class and lesson an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Belts & Certifications

•Black Belt Second Degree, Counter Terror Krav Maga (Nir Maman)

•Black Belt, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Professor Hugo Fevrier)

•ASP Baton Instructor

•Tactical Handcuffing Instructor

•Use of Force Instructor

•CFSC/CRFSC

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House of Combat Team

Steve K. Jiu Jitsu Coach

BJJ Coach
Steve K

Professor Steven "Moose" Kakamousias has 15+ years of experience training, coaching, and competing in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Belts & Certifications

Black Belt, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Professor Hugo Fevrier)

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Krav Maga & BJJ Coach
Chaim Grafstein

Chaim has 15 years of training experience in Krav Maga, BJJ, and boxing. He is also an experienced educator and Ph.D. candidate at the University of Toronto. Deep technical knowledge and friendly teaching methods make his classes and private lessons welcoming even for those just beginning their martial arts journey.

Belts & Certifications

•Brown Belt Two Stripes, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

•Brown Belt Instructor, Counter Terror Krav Maga

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Director & Women’s BJJ Coach
Avigayil Basser

Avigayil is the co-owner and director at House of Combat. She is passionate about making martial arts accessible and empowering women with self-defense skills so they can live better safer lives.

Belts & Certifications

•Blue Belt Four Stripes, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

•Red Cross CPR-C & First Aid

•Can Fit Pro Personal Trainer