John Bassford began his martial arts journey in search of more than just self-defense—he was drawn to the sense of community that training can create. From the start, he believed in the power of martial arts to bring people together through discipline, shared struggle, and personal growth. The camaraderie and respect found on the mats quickly became something he wanted to pass on to others.

When he discovered No Belt Required, John knew he had found something special. The mission of using martial arts to support and empower others, especially those who serve, resonated deeply with him. For John, NBR is more than a training program—it’s a space for connection, healing, and growth. As a coach, he’s committed to helping students build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the gym.