Hometown
La Monte, MO
Current Rank
Blackbelt
What year did you start training?
2009
How did you get started?
I started training when a friend of mine came into the gym I was a personal trainer at & told me, “You’re so big, you should come train MMA!!” I started training in his garage that week & 10 years later, I’m still on the mats! I fought MMA for a few years & while I really enjoyed the journey it took me on, Jiu Jitsu always had my heart. I’m thankful that I’ve been fortunate enough to see some cool places, make amazing memories & gained friendships I’ll cherish the rest of my life!
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve encountered in your training, and how did you overcome it?
Jiu Jitsu has helped me grow as a human being, both on & off the mats. It’s taught me that the process doesn’t have to always feel great to be productive.
What’s your favorite thing about training or teaching, and why?
My favorite thing about teaching is watching students work through self-imposed limitations to discover how strong they actually are!
What are your personal goals on and off the mat?
Jiu Jitsu changed my life. Especially the Jiu Jitsu community. No matter how life was going off the mats, my Jiu Jitsu family was a constant that helped me stay balanced. These days, before each class I teach, I remind myself that every encounter counts: Today might be the day that Jiu Jitsu helps someone else change their live & I feel incredibly grateful to give back to that process.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I’m terrified of the Ocean! It’s too alive for me
