Tyler McKay

Tyler McKay discovered jiu-jitsu while studying Kinesiology at Cal State San Marcos. What started as a curiosity quickly turned into an obsession, and soon he was training 2-3 times a day before, in-between, and after his classes. After graduating from CSUSM, he moved to an MMA gym in Temecula, where he spent about two years immersing himself in no-gi jiu-jitsu, MMA, and Muay Thai.

However, Tyler’s journey hit a significant bump when he injured his back, requiring surgery that kept him off the mats for 1.5 years. But in true Tyler fashion, he didn’t let that setback stop him. Just five months after his surgery, he worked his way back onto the mats. 

Being injured and off the mats for so long taught Tyler how to study jiu-jitsu deeply and learn from instructionals. During this time, he delved into Keenan’s Lapel Encyclopedia and decided that Legion was where he wanted to be.

In August 2020, Tyler started training at Legion American Jiu Jitsu, where he quickly made his mark. His passion for teaching and his extensive experience made him a natural fit for helping with the kids’ program. Today, Tyler is the Director of the Eaglets Program, where he brings his unique blend of educational expertise and jiu-jitsu knowledge to students of all ages and skill levels.

Tyler regularly competes and continues to push himself to new heights, both as a practitioner and as a coach. He’s not just a teacher; he’s a mentor and a role model for his students, showing them that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.

Outside the gym, Tyler enjoys hiking, going to the zoo, working out with his wife, savoring good food, and taking long walks with his Siberian Husky, Blue.

Tyler McKay’s story is one of passion, resilience, and dedication. He’s not just building champions on the mat; he’s helping to shape confident, respectful, and disciplined individuals who carry these values into every aspect of their lives.