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Meet the Team
Academic Staff
Teachers & Admin
Maria Vella
Teacher
Welcome! My name is Maria Vella and this is my 14th year teaching. I'm excited to share my passion for learning with our students. I hold a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction and am certified in five subject areas, including ESL supplemental and virtual instruction. When I'm not in the classroom (or on a video call!), I love spending time with my family, staying active by working out, and expressing my creative side through crafting.
Jasmine Nuñez
Admin
Hi! My name is Jasmine Nuñez, and I am so excited to serve the Bold as Lions Academy community. My husband and I are proud parents of three and have been homeschooling since 2018. As a family, we are passionate about our faith in Jesus, holistic health, and jiu jitsu. In my free time, I enjoy reading and photography. I am looking forward to getting to know your families and learning together this year!
Coaches
Ryan Dickson
MMA, Jiu-Jitsu, Muay-Thai, Athletic Development
- 6 years black belt BJJ
- +20 years coaching Wrestling/BJJ/Boxing/Muay Thai
- Professional MMA and BJJ Competitor
- Physical therapist and athletic development coach at Temple Body in Southlake TX.
Donny Whitted
Wrestling
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
• 3x State Champion
• NHSCA National Champion
• Fargo National Champion
• Former Maryville University Wrestler
COLLEGIATE EXPERIENCE
Donavan Whitted brought his championship pedigree to Maryville University's wrestling program, where he demonstrated the same elite talent that made him one of the nation's most accomplished high school wrestlers.
Mitch Marmelstein
Boxing
- USA Certified Boxing Coach
- Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (NSCA)
- Masters in Divinity, Biblical Studies at Wesley Seminary
As a former professional basketball player, Mitch began cross-training with boxing in the offseason. He eventually fell in love with the sport and transitioned to competing and coaching full-time. After spending over six years at Capistrano Boxing Gym in CA, Mitch relocated to Fort Worth and is dedicated to training our youth (1 Timothy 4:8).
Jason Verriere
Strength & Conditioning
Coach Jason brings over 25 years of professional experience in strength and conditioning to our school. A certified personal trainer, nutrition specialist, and longtime strength coach for amateur and professional athletes, Coach has successfully created and implemented specialized workout and nutrition programs for both children and adults. Coach combines deep expertise with a fun, age-appropriate approach that helps kids build strength, confidence, coordination, and healthy eating habits.
Empowering students for an intelligent, healthy, and confident generation.
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