Earlier this week, I had the honor of earning the first stripe on my blue belt, thanks to Coach Alan and Coach Eric at AvA Jiu-Jitsu. Although I mainly train in No-Gi to avoid pressure from the belt system, it does feel good to get a stripe. I earned my blue belt on October 29, 2024, and began my Jiu-Jitsu journey at the end of September 2023. It has been almost two years, but I can feel that I’ve barely scratched the surface, and there’s still so much to learn. The feeling of impostor syndrome remains strong; I still get beaten up by other blue belts and sometimes even white belts, which can be discouraging at times. There are good days and bad days, but never a day I regret coming to training. The notes I’ve taken and the hours on the mat help me not just with technique but also teach me more about myself and other aspects of life, building and hardening my character. I’ve made friends who are on the same journey, formed relationships, and tapped into the Jiu-Jitsu community. I’m forever grateful to have found Jiu-Jitsu and look forward to what lies ahead.

Thank you to all the coaches, partners, friends, and loved ones who have supported my Jiu-Jitsu journey.

Here are some pictures taken of the promotion where I got the first stripe on my blue belt – September 8th, 2025