Coach Dylan Quesada (Mack)

Can you introduce yourself? Tell us your name and where you’re from.

My name is Dylan Quesada, and I was born here in Utah but raised in Guadalajara, Mexico. When I was 18, I moved to the United States on my own, looking for new opportunities and a better life.

Your name is Dylan, so where did the nickname “Mack” come from?

It comes from my grandfather, who was a very close and special person in my life. Sadly, he passed away in 2022. Through his childhood friends, we discovered that his nickname had been “Mac.” I decided to adopt it and add a “k” at the end. It’s my way of always carrying a part of him with me.

How and when did you first get started in martial arts?

I got started through my dad. I began boxing when I was four years old and trained for about four years. At eight, I started Taekwondo. That was my first formal martial arts program, and it’s where I earned my first black belt.

Both of your parents train martial arts, and your dad runs a school. How has growing up in that environment shaped who you are today?

My parents opened their gym in 2015, initially offering only CrossFit. In 2016, my dad, who was already a Taekwondo black belt, expanded the gym to include martial arts. My father has been strict with me for as long as I can remember. I grew up surrounded by discipline and strong values, which helped me become a strong person who is committed to everything I pursue.

How did you find your way to Gracie Barra, and what has that experience as a coach been like for you?

I first trained at Gracie Barra West Jordan, then at Gracie Barra Salt Lake City. When I had the opportunity to buy a property in Herriman, Riverton became the ideal option for me. Coaching is my part-time job and, honestly, my favorite one. I love teaching Jiu-Jitsu. Being able to share some of what I’ve learned over the past ten years means a lot to me. It’s especially rewarding to see how our work helps each student in a different, positive way.

You’ve competed since childhood across several martial arts, including BJJ. Which competition experience stands out most, and what did it teach you?

One competition about a year ago really stayed with me. I lost my first match because of a mistake. My shoulder felt a little hurt, but I wanted to continue. I went into the second match thinking I had nothing to lose. I just wanted to have fun and enjoy the experience, regardless of the result. Once I relaxed, I won my next two matches.

That experience helped me realize that the problem wasn’t a lack of skill. It was the pressure I was putting on myself to win. I learned to focus on enjoying the process instead of letting the result take over my mindset.

What lessons from boxing, Taekwondo, Karate, and MMA do you bring to your Jiu-Jitsu training and coaching?

Each martial art teaches us to become better people, develop self-control, and understand that fighting should never be our first option. Knowing how to fight doesn’t mean going out and looking for a fight. To me, it means being prepared to defend myself if necessary, both physically and emotionally.

What do you enjoy most about helping students learn?

What I enjoy most is seeing the kids grow and improve with every class. Some are very shy and barely speak when they first start. Over time, they become more confident and develop skills they can use both on and off the mats. They learn new things and begin to realize they’re capable of overcoming challenges bigger than they ever imagined.

What positive impact do you think Jiu-Jitsu can have on a teenager’s life, both on and off the mats?

I think Jiu-Jitsu can have a very positive impact. During adolescence, we’re beginning to discover who we are and understand the world around us.

Training teaches us to stay calm and handle pressure. Some days, everything goes well. Other days, nothing seems to work. Learning how to respond to both is an important skill, on the mats and in everyday life.

I believe building confidence, discipline, and emotional strength early in life matters. The decisions teenagers make today, and the guidance they receive from parents and other adults, can help shape their future.

What do you like to do in your free time when you’re not training or coaching?

I’m a cheerful and disciplined person. When I’m not working or coaching, I like to take time for myself. I enjoy going to the gym, building LEGO sets, spending time with people I care about, and making the most of my free time in a healthy way.