Meet Niall
Founder, coach &
lifelong learner
After years of competing in BJJ and working in corporate leadership, Brown Belt Niall saw something missing in Edinburgh:
A structured and patient space where kids could build confidence, focus and resilience.
That’s how MethodBJJ began. A community built on respect, belonging and the belief that everyone can grow.
Champion mindset, humble coaching
Niall’s passion has always been helping people progress.
He combines the discipline of competition with empathy, humour and patience,
especially for young people who don’t always ‘fit in’ elsewhere.
The mats feel like home.
➺ Active Brown Belt BJJ competitor with national and international medals
➺ Background in Muay Thai, strength & conditioning, and injury rehab
➺ Professional leadership experience. Communication and patience are second nature
➺ Experienced coaching neurodivergent children and young beginners
Progress over perfection. Always.
Every student is met where they are. From shy beginners to those who need extra support.
Our classes blend physical skill with mindset coaching: how to breathe, reset, and keep trying.
It’s not about winning; it’s about staying calm, respectful, and kind — even in challenge.
“Besides an awesome professional, Niall is an awesome person.
Your kid couldn’t be in better hands. Give it a go!”
— Gustavo, parent of Arthur (age 6)
Where it all started
Niall first met Steven and Mariusz in 2016 — both BJJ black belt professors and co-owners of Playfair BJJ, a Method BJJ association. He began formally training under them in 2018, spending a long time as a white belt and building strong foundations in resilience and technique.
Since November 2021, Niall has been coaching at Playfair, supporting students while continuing his own progression.
As part of Playfair’s association with Method BJJ, Steven will oversee all Method BJJ belt gradings, ensuring consistent standards across the affiliated schools.
Every black belt starts with one class
MethodBJJ isn’t just a club. It’s a place to belong.
Students come for the moves; and they stay for the confidence, the laughter, and the feeling of progress.
Parents come along for the ride to observe improved emotional regulation, discipline and the joy of seeing their child proud of who they’re becoming.