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What made you get into martial arts?
Mainly four reasons:

1. Problem solving: every person you train or compete with has different strengths. The fun part is figuring out how to deal with those strengths and still apply your own game.

2. Continuous improvements: it’s rewarding to notice yourself improving week by week.

3. Many indirect benefits: listening skills, more GRIT and mental sharpness

4. The environment: it’s a great community to be part of.

Tell us about your journey/background/accomplishments?
BJJ was my first real hobby. I did my first class at High Altitude Martial Arts when I was 30. At that age, I never imagined I’d end up competing in some of the world’s biggest tournaments, sharing the mats with world champions. One accomplishment I’m proud of is winning a silver medal at the 2024 IBJJF No-Gi Pans.

What is your goal as a coach?
To support students in learning effective techniques while avoiding the mistakes and hiccups I ran into when I first started.

What makes High Altitude Martial Arts special?
The environment is an obvious factor. Additionally, the variety of coaches and their different coaching styles contribute to the learning experience and help students develop their own game in BJJ.