About Zen Martial Arts

Devlin Crew

Coach Devlin Crew serves as a core martial arts instructor based out of Zen Martial Arts in Chilliwack, British Columbia. Recognized as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) black belt, he leverages a profound foundational background in combat sports—including early roots in his family's karate studio—to structure high-level training programs. At the academy, he is heavily involved in instructing dynamic evening classes that span multiple disciplines, primarily leading sessions in No-Gi grappling, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Coach Devlin is highly valued in the local Chilliwack martial arts community for his technique-driven approach, his patience with beginners, and his structured methodology that benefits both casual hobbyists and active competitors.

Stephen Sanderson

Coach Stephen Sanderson brings over 25 years of extensive ring experience to Chilliwack's martial arts community, instructing students out of the Zen Martial Arts & Fitness facility. Known for his technical mastery, he specializes in teaching the highly tactical "Cuban style" of boxing, which prioritizes slick footwork, clever head movement, and precise counter-striking. Beyond sharpening the skills of individual competitors, Stephen takes an inclusive approach to fitness by co-running specialized family striking programs that allow parents and children to train and build confidence together.

Americo Peña

Americo Peña is an accomplished former national wrestling champion from El Salvador who has transitioned into a highly respected Olympic-level wrestling coach in British Columbia, Canada. Based in the Chilliwack community, he leverages his extensive background with the El Salvador National Wrestling Program to train the next generation of athletes at both the Chilliwack Grapplers Wrestling Club and Zen Martial Arts & Fitness. Known for his technical expertise in international freestyle wrestling, Peña is a dedicated mentor who guides everyone from young kids aiming for regional championships to adults mastering competitive grappling.

Broden Fowler

Coach Broden Fowler is an experienced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt dedicated to helping students of all skill levels build confidence, refine technique, and reach their full potential. As an active competitor on the tournament circuit, he brings modern, battle-tested strategies directly to the mats. His structured classes focus on technical precision, smart leverage, and fostering a safe, high-energy environment where everyone from beginners to seasoned athletes can thrive.

Mike

Mike brings over 13 years of dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience to the mats, blending technical expertise with an infectious energy. Known for his welcoming and high-vibe coaching style, he is passionate about helping students of all ages and skill levels unlock their true potential. Whether you are stepping onto the mats for your very first day or looking to sharpen your competitive edge, Mike creates a supportive, empowering environment designed to build real-world confidence, sharp skills, and a lifelong love for grappling.

Ashley "Smash City" Watkins

Ashley "Smash City" Watkins is an accomplished amateur mixed martial arts fighter and kickboxing practitioner who brings nearly 20 years of combat sports experience to the cage. She is an AMA Kickboxing Champion who began her training journey around 2007. Known as a highly seasoned striker who loves a brawl, her signature fighting style relies on nonstop forward pressure to overwhelm her opponents, though she is also well-versed in grappling with a particular fondness for submission techniques like bicep slicers. In addition to giving back to the martial arts community as a dedicated striking coach, she has proven her explosive finishing ability in competition, most notably securing a lightning-fast 0:44-second Round 1 TKO victory at Mamba Fight League 13.

Rob