I believe BJJ is an endlessly fascinating sport with benefits both physical and mental on and off the mat. It makes you present in the moment in a way that is really good for you-body and mind. I believe anyone can do BJJ and that it can be a lifelong pursuit. The goal for all the students is that they are still on the mats rolling at 85, so I teach and we train with that in mind. BJJ is more than a sport, it’s a community with a social connection and group camaraderie, which are hard to duplicate.

I started my journey in 1995 in Southern California, under Ken Gabrielson (one of the “Dirty Dozen”). I received my black belt in 2013 under Tom Oberhue. Today I own and run a fitness and BJJ gym in Portland, Oregon.