Some people see BJJ as an individual journey. And, while it is a constant battle of self-improvement, resilience, and personal growth, it's not a path one walks alone.

Every experienced practitioner will tell you that for every belt promotion, every victory, and every setback, there have been people who have supported, guided, and lifted us up.
So, while it's easy to focus on our own progress, it’s also essential to pause and remember those who were there along the way.

Recently, I had the honor of promoting one of my oldest friends, Professor Savarese, to his 4th Degree Black Belt.

Our story goes back more than two decades, to a time when I was a kid coming up in Jiu-Jitsu, eager to train, learn and win.
He gave me a home on the East Coast and from there, our friendship grew.

Sav is someone who has truly stood the test of time in Jiu-Jitsu. He came up in the 90s, when the landscape of the sport was vastly different from what it is today.
His resilience and commitment to the art have allowed him to build an incredible Jiu-Jitsu community at the Savarese Jiu-Jitsu Academy.

Watching him take so many students from white belt all the way to black belt is a testament to his dedication as an instructor, mentor, and leader.
Even after all these years, he continues to set the example, constantly learning and evolving to better serve his students.

 

 

 

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When I think back on my own journey, I realize how important it is to remember and honor people such as Sav. Those who have been there for me, who have supported me.
For all the time spent training, competing, and pushing myself, it’s the friendships and support along the way that have shaped my experience.

It’s easy to get lost in the grind and forget how much others contribute to our success.
People like Sav, who offered me a place to train when I needed it most, played a key role in helping me become the martial artist I am today.

You see, in Jiu-Jitsu - as in life - we are all part of a larger community. The belts we wear and the milestones we reach are not just reflections of our own efforts, but of the support, encouragement, and guidance we’ve received from those around us.

Whether it’s a coach who believed in us, a training partner who pushed us to be better, or a friend who opened their doors when we needed a place to settle and grow, these people are as much a part of our journey as we are.

I encourage you to take a moment to think about those who have been there for you.
Acknowledge their impact, express your gratitude, and remember that none of us succeeds on our own.