Meet The Team

Owner & Coach
Nicolas Cabrera
Nicolas Cabrera, owner of Diesel Athletic Academy, is a strength & conditioning and wrestling coach with 13 years of Army service. A dedicated special needs educator, he sees teaching and empowering others as his lifelong duty.

Wrestling Coach
Angelina Dawson
Angelina Dawson, a trailblazing strength & conditioning and women’s wrestling coach at Diesel Athletic Academy, made history as the first female wrestler at Howell High School and now leads with passion, empowerment, and grit. A natural mentor whose legacy is built on inspiring every athlete she trains.

Head Wrestling Coach
Gerard Perez - The Joker
Gerard “The Joker” Perez, Sensei of “The Way of the Wildcard,” is a master combat sports coach who blends teaching, pioneering spirit, and veteran savvy into every session. As Head Wrestling Instructor at Diesel Wrestling Academy and an inspiring mentor, he lives to elevate athletes with unpredictable power and purpose.

Yogi, Holistic Coach, Co-Owner
Claire Heudes-Cabrera
Claire Heudes Cabrera, a yogi, holistic coach, and co-owner of Diesel Athletic Academy, holds a BA in Psychology and is currently studying massage therapy, which gives her a unique perspective on the mechanics of the body and the needs of the mind. With nearly 20 years of yoga practice, she empowers others through mindful movement, balance, and healing.
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Wrestling Coach
Jilian Dugenio
Jillian Dugenio, wrestling coach at Diesel Athletic Academy, brings passion, resilience, and a trailblazing spirit to the mat. As a dedicated mentor, she empowers young athletes—especially girls in wrestling—to grow in confidence, skill, and strength.
