Our Team
Andy “Hollywood” Colgrave
Owner & Head Coach
Bio: Andy “Hollywood” Colgrave is well known in both the local and international martial arts scene. He boasts a wealth of knowledge, skill and coaching experience spanning over two decades combining his experience as a Muay Thai fighter and teacher. Given the mounting demand for Muay Thai classes and the growing stable of fighters, Andy decided to open his own specialised training facility in May 2016, and with that the Ring Gym was born.
Experience: Training Muay Thai since 1994, Andy competed under Sityodtong Gym at an elite level throughout Australasia, gaining a mass of ring experience and victories. He retired from fighting with 39 fights and turned his focus to coaching in 2009.
In 2012, Andy began coaching Muay Thai at Resilience Training Centre and became the MMA striking coach for Danel Kelly. Soon, from a local MMA fighter Dan evolved to a UFC star. Dan and Andy worked together until 2018 when after 10 fights, Dan retied from fighting.
Through the experience earned from coaching Dan, Andy learned the ins and outs of MMA striking and established himself as a high-level MMA coach. Since then, he’s had successes with other fighters on their MMA journey, including Cal “Rockstar” Potter (UFC), Jack Jenkins (UFC) and Sara Collins (Bellator MMA), along the string of up-and-coming local Muay Thai and MMA fighters.
Reason for coaching: “I like the challenge of getting the best out of different people, seeing them grow personally and as fighters. I have always enjoyed the mental aspect of fighting and support my fighters though the challenges the fight game inevitably presents. Finally, I enjoy mentoring my coaches so that they continue developing. Because the combat sports keep evolving, I need to keep on top of the game too, which keeps me on my toes!”
Outside of Muay Thai: “I am a family man and enjoy my time at home. My two tween daughters also train at the gym and my partner Kat is an ex-fighter and my training mate, so as a family, we are all part of the Muay Thai world. When not home, or at the gym, we spend time travelling in our caravan.”
Things you should know about me: “I am a big rock and gem enthusiast. Whenever I have spare time, I collect and polish rocks and admire pretty crystals”.
Michelle ‘The Muscle’ Russell
Senior Coach
Bio: With a degree in exercise science and over 8 years’ experience in Muay Thai, Michelle’s commitment to training and helping others has led her to the role of a senior coach at the Ring Gym. She is focussed on her professional fighting career as much as coaching, so you'll often see her at the gym training and supporting others.
Experience: With over 10 fights as a pro and many more as an amateur, Michelle is currently chasing some big goals. As part of the Ring Gym Fight Team, Michelle has fought across Australia, always ready for the next challenge. Her exercise science background has taught her lot about injury prevention, strength training and training around injuries/conditions. She is your go to girl if you have questions around injuries or want to learn correct technique, whether for Muay Thai, wight lifting or body conditioning.
Reason for coaching: “Muay Thai gave me a place to belong. Somewhere I could be me. Nothing makes me happier than giving that same feeling to someone else”.
Outside of Muay Thai: Outside of the gym life, you’ll find Michelle with her partner, his son and their bulldog out camping or just adventuring somewhere.
Things you should know about me: “It's best to talk to me after I've had coffee. And yes "hangry" is a thing, I would know”.
Indigo Boyd
Senior Coach
Bio: Indy is our senior Muay Thai coach with 10 years professional fighting experience in both boxing and kickboxing. He thoroughly enjoys seeing someone grow from not being able to throw a punch to some fun sparring!
Indigo worked and trained at many gyms across Victoria, the Ring Gym is now where he calls his second home.
“You won’t find another gym with more experienced and nicer coaches in Vic! You’ll see me at the Ring Gym taking advanced Muay Thai and helping with the amateur fight team. “
Experience: Indy has 10 years professional fight experience and also 5 years as striking coach. He fought internationally on K1 World Grand Prix WKBF and was the Commonwealth K1 Champ X2 Australian K1 and Muay Thai ISKA Champ X2, Victorian K1 ISKA & IKBF Vic Champ.
Reason for coaching: “I really enjoy introducing martial arts as a whole to new people and seeing how it can help them in their own unique way. Martial arts for me are a mental, emotional and physical tool to help you grow as a person. Seeing someone happy and training in the gym is very rewarding. It’s been easy to transition from fighting to coaching as it’s allowed me to continue my love for the sport and helping others. “
Outside of Muay Thai: “Fishing, camping and making my garden look beautiful takes up all of my time. My life revolves around Muay Thai so personal training is also a big part of my schedule - hit me up for some extra training!”
Things you should know about me: “I am not the quiet person at the gym! I try to make everyone feel comfortable and welcome. If you see me dancing to the music that I put on during classes, don’t mind me, we’ll get to training asap 😉 I’m always up for answering any questions you have or a general chit chat after class. ”
Kru Jeab Sityodtong
Senior Coach
Bio: Some people call him The Godfather of Muay Thai, some call him Muay Thai Yoda. Originally Andy’s coach at Sityodtong, Jeab is a former pro Muay Thai fighter with a record of over 100 fights! He has over 20 years of coaching experience and has produced many champions throughout the years.
Jeab is a big part of the Muay Thai world here in Melbourne and you will see him judging and refereeing at top fight shows and promotions, such as Rebellion Muay Thai, Muay Thai Victoria and others.
Experience: Fighting from the age of 9, Jeab has had a lifetime of fighting and training experience, mentoring and developed hundreds of fighters.
Reason for coaching: “Growing up, all I had was Muay Thai. I have always enjoyed learning and sharing what I know and love. I am proud of my culture. Muay Thai is a good sport and fair sport. “
Outside of Muay Thai: “I race greyhounds and look after many dogs. I love to watch soccer - Liverpool is my favourite team. Besides that, not much. Muay Thai is my life. “
Things you should know about me: “I started fighting when I was 9 years old and training others at the age of 25 (ongoing). I came to Australia in 2002 and opened my gym, Sityodtong Muay Thai in Brunswick. I have trained many champions and lots and lots of people. “
Luke Alivio
Coach
Bio: “If you are new to your Muay Thai journey at the Ring Gym, chances are you have already met Luke, as he is the one that usually welcomes new people to our community. "I like to consider myself as The Ring Gym's son as I literally grew up here, with all the coaches and teammates became family for me. With that I also aim to make you feel right at home."
Luke assists coach Michelle with both the fundamentals and mixed level classes, as well as hosts the lunch time classes from time to time.
Experience: Luke has been training in the art since 2019 and has been an amateur fighter since late 2022. As a coach, Luke is a gifted Muay Thai technician, always ready to teach a few tricks and connect with people with his natural enthusiasm and passion.
Reason for coaching: “The Ring Gym and the art of Muay Thai saved me, and to honour them both I want to share the values and lessons I've learnt with anyone willing, to the best of my abilities! When I began training, I mentioned to Andy that I wanted to be just like him, and now 4 years later I am learning from all the leaders at the gym just what it means to be a teacher.”
Outside of Muay Thai: Outside of Muay Thai, Luke is a business student, and also have a deep love for art, literature and philosophy.
Things you should know about me: “I have finished the anime and am up to date with the manga of Hajime no Ippo and have extensive knowledge acquired from it.
Bianca De Pasquale
Coach
Bio: Bianca has been described as bubbly and stylish. You’ll always see her training in pink gloves or trying to sweep the tallest person in the gym. She even matched her wraps to her outfit.!
Bianca runs the kids’ program at the Ring Gym and supports our Kick for Kids program, where we work with local schools and introduce them to the world of Muay Thai.
Experience: Bianca has been training in Muay Thai for 6 years, with 3 training camps in Thailand. She competed at interclub level, looking to make her amateur debut.
Reason for coaching: “I love sharing the joy that Muay Thai has brought me, there’s no better feeling than seeing the students feeling strong and empowered. Muay Thai is difficult, with a lot to learn and I love being able to help the students on their journey. I get to use my experience to clear up some of the confusion. It also helps me become a better fighter and a better student.
Outside of Muay Thai: “Outside of Muay Thai, I run a fashion label, inspired by our athletes. All clothes are designed and hand-made to celebrate the strong bodies and cool personalities of every individual.
Things you should know about me: “My favourite technique to teach is a Superman Punch. I have travelled to 30 countries. I can fully make and sew my own clothes. I couldn’t touch my toes until I was 25.
Dat Tran
Business Manager/Coach
Bio: Dat used to come to train at the Ring Gym so much he ended up living here (for legal reasons this is a joke). Dat is responsible for the branding, growth and maintenance of the gym. He is a talented artist and designs the Fight Team shirts, Muay Thai shorts, and other gym apparel. Dat will be your point of contact with the gym and is also the media/socials guru.
Experience: Dat has trained Muay Thai since 2019 and is currently fighting at amateur level. He had previously competed in Brazilian Jiujitsu and worked instructing self-defence courses at schools across Victoria. For the past few years Dat has been teaching private lessons and been also involved in the Muay Thai’s Kids classes.
Reason for coaching: “I have always loved watching martial arts movies growing up, idolising the characters that can stay calm in chaotic environments and situations, but I never expected to be able to do myself due to a lack of self-confidence, being unfit and being a bad asthmatic since birth. When I finally built up the courage to take the leap and do a free trial, I instantly fell in love with the sport. The personal growth and seeing the human potential were addictive! Seeing myself grow and change every day was a feeling like no other and I had even beaten my asthma over a course of training.
When I was given the chance to help out, I took it straight away remembering how I felt when I first started, I wanted to show people how amazing Martial arts is and spread my passion and joy for it. To me the best feeling in the world is when I explain something to a student/member and their eyes light up when we solve a technical issue they’ve been having for a while. Working together with students and members to help them grow is a dream come true for me.”
Outside of Muay Thai: “Outside of Muay Thai I have been an online content creator of over 15 years with experience in growing socials of all avenues, from Twitch, Youtube, Facebook, Instagram & Tiktok pages. I have taken that experience into helping out at the gym. I have also been a Cosplayer, competing in it professionally and now judging competitions interstate and overseas. This gave me the opportunity to work with companies like HBO, Blizzard, Crunchyroll, HOYTS, MADMAN, PAX and others.
Things you should know about me: “I am actually introverted and most likely internally nervous when we are speaking - Muay Thai taught me how to hold a good poker face.”
Elle Ferraro
Coach
Programs offered: Muay Thai personal training sessions for individuals, groups and families, whether your goal is fitness, weight loss, technique or to compete.
Qualifications: Undergraduate Arts Degree from the University of Melbourne, Graduate Diploma in Psychology from Monash University and 7 years Muay Thai experience.
The reason I coach: I started MMA in high school after watching the movie ‘Never Back Down’ – I still train to the soundtrack sometimes! I wanted to learn self-defence and feel strong but found much more to love in the sport, especially the community involved. Andy Colgrave has been part of my Muay Thai journey from day 1 and I’m pretty lucky to have the opportunity to continue learning from and work with him – even if I now hear his voice in my head when I do anything wrong.
I love helping people achieve their goals and discover that your size, gender and background/experience don’t matter, anyone can improve with dedication and hard work. Muay Thai gives you more than just a sport or a training routine, there’s a whole diverse community of incredible people you can become a part of.
When you want me in your corner: I believe mental preparation to compete is just as important as physical. Everyone has different needs and responds differently during a fight, so I like to find out how people learn best, how they want to be supported and how to motivate them in and out of the ring. Working with our members for their first, second or even third interclub has been really enjoyable and so rewarding to see their hard work pay off!
When you should run: If you drop your hands (guard) during drills, sparring, pad rounds … any time really when they should be up protecting your face! I will hit you with a pool noodle. This comes from a place of love. And I won’t lie, it’s just kind of fun.
Most memorable moment: All of them! I want to say cornering our members in their inter-clubs, training with our amazing fight team or getting in the ring myself! But to be honest the best moments are the dumb ones… when people fall over their partners during leap-frog, accidentally smack someone in the face with a ball during dodgeball or try to throw a head kick and land on their butt. I’ve definitely been known to literally roll on the ground laughing during classes – we’ve all made idiots of ourselves plenty of times! If you can have a laugh about it, maybe even again when you think of it a week later, then it’s all okay!
Caylum Barber
Coach
Bio: Caylum is the latest addition to The Ring Gym family. Having grown up in a small country town in NSW, He has always been interested in sports playing soccer for over 20 years. Caylum is a baker by trade and has always been a very outgoing person but yet struggled with self confidence who didn’t always fit in. “I was very frustrated and angry until I found martial arts which has helped my life heaps. Having moved to Melbourne in 2023 I started training at The Ring Gym and found my home.”
Experience: Caylum started BJJ in 2019 just to try something different. Then he heard the sound of a shin wrapping around a bag and he was in. Started training Muay Thai in late 2019 early 2020 fell in love instantly. Started Wrestling in 2021-22 . Competed in wrestling and became a state champion in 2022. Have been competing as an amateur from 2022-2023 in Muay Thai and has now entered the professional ranks.
Reason for coaching: “I’ve always enjoyed coaching and sharing my passion with other people. To me there’s no better feeling then putting a smile on someone’s face and watching them grow as a person but also as a martial artist. I enjoy watching people get through a session they didn’t think they could do and push there limits. Coaching for me is very rewarding and i see myself doing it for a long time. “
Outside of Muay Thai: “Outside of Muay Thai you’ll find me spending time with my partner and my 3 dogs. I enjoy eating food too much. Love being in nature.”
Things you should know about me: “I can be shy at the start but once you know me I’m a very open book (sometimes too open) and just enjoy making people laugh and smile.”
Alana Phu Nguyen
Front Desk
Jack Doherty
Combat Dietitian
Jack has a degree in Exercise and Health Science and is currently completing his Masters of Dietetics Studies. Jack currently works with a number of top Combat Athletes competing across Australia and is responsible for the long term development pathways for a number of local, state, and national level competitors. Jack's primary interest lies in Nutrition for peak performance and recovery. When he isn’t helping athletes get the most out of their training, you can find him slicing elbows and drilling his Ram Muay.
Okky Stafford
Fight Team trainer
With more than 15 years of experience in coaching and training with state, national and world champion fighters, Okky has learnt over the years that his true passion is Muay Thai.
With a few fights under his belt, Okky decided to grow an interest in the art of Muay Thai. Training under Lumpinee world champions and local national champions from Thailand expanded his knowledge and experience, allowing him to refine his own style and skill.
Muay Thai and most other martial arts is not just about striking your opponent, it also focuses on training the mind to be sharper when in combat, which is an art form in-itself.
As a coach Okky applies different skills and adapts his coaching style to challenge and develop every student, from beginners to experienced fighters.