James Boyle, our Head Instructor, is a seasoned Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner with over two decades of experience. His expertise and long-standing involvement in the sport have earned him strong connections within the martial arts community, forming relationships with highly respected practitioners and academies across the UK and Europe.

As a result of this, Nomad is not an isolated academy but part of a much larger, thriving network of gyms. This affiliation, known as Northern Alliance, is a collaborative group of academies based primarily across the North of England. Headed up by Neil Owen, a 4th Degree Black Belt and a respected figure in the UK BJJ scene. Neil is the head coach of multiple successful academies, including Nomad Jiu Jitsu in Worksop, Squad Jiu Jitsu in Chesterfield and Nottingham MMA, among others.

Neil Owen also happens to be a key figure in James’ own journey—he was James’ very first instructor when James began training at just 17 years old. This long-standing mentorship has shaped James into the instructor he is today.

Being part of the Northern Alliance offers incredible benefits for our members. It means our students have access to a wide network of gyms to cross-train with, share knowledge and build friendships within the community. We regularly collaborate on events, seminars and training camps, including the renowned York Camp—an annual seminar that brings together practitioners from all over the country.