Hometown
Denver
Current Rank
Black – Easton Denver’s first female black belt
What year did you start training?
2009 jiu jitsu; 2008 Muay Thai
How did you get started?
Both of my parents practiced martial arts and I grew up learning techniques sporadically.. I started with Muay Thai but I eventually tried jiu jitsu again and got hooked.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve encountered in your training, and how did you overcome it?
A month after winning master worlds at purple belt, I tore my ACL in soccer and was out for a year. I also learned to face my fear of competing and since won many tournaments. I’ve been able to overcome these challenges because of the support of our community and the lessons learned on the mat.
What’s your favorite thing about training or teaching, and why?
I love helping people accomplish their goals.I love training because it forces you to be honest about yourself. I love martial arts because they bring people together from all walks of life.
What are your personal goals on and off the mat?
To be the best I can be at whatever I’m pursuing. To be kind and honest. To support those around me.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I was so overwhelmed by my first jiu jitsu class that it took me a year to try again. At the time I didn’t like being touched, so you can imagine the shock of practicing front chokes from mount. I am so grateful that I was encouraged to try again. My whole life is different because of it. I’ve gained more discipline, patience, resilience, a husband, friends, travel, and a great community – all from jiu jitsu.
