Hometown
Colorado Springs, CO
Current Rank
Brown
What year did you start training?
2009
How did you get started?
I had always liked grappling and MMA. I was looking for something to take my mind off of grad school and to try and get in better shape.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve encountered in your training, and how did you overcome it?
I’ve had 2 ACL replacements and moved 3 times during the past 10 years of Jiu Jitsu. At the end of the day, you just have to keep showing up. There may be time in between or you may only be able to do one little thing, but that’s the only answer.
What’s your favorite thing about training or teaching, and why?
I love being able to take my knowledge of jiu jitsu and refine it down into the most efficient and palatable version for my students. Figuring out how to most efficiently teach jiu jitsu has made me a better competitor and vice versa.
What are your personal goals on and off the mat?
My biggest goal is to always challenge myself by pushing past where I feel physically, mentally, and emotionally comfortable and expanding my game and skill set.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I run a Dungeons and Dragons game that consists primarily of Jiu Jitsu black belts.
