Gamefight Wakefield: A Message to Our Kids' Class Parents

I just want to take a moment to say how incredibly proud I am of our kids' class. The recent competition results and grading achievements have been outstanding. Seeing our young students step onto the mats, test their skills, and push themselves beyond their comfort zones is inspiring. Each stripe and belt earned is a testament to their hard work and commitment, and I couldn’t be prouder.

However, I’ve been around long enough to know that this is also a stage where some kids start to drop off. It’s completely natural—challenges get tougher, training becomes more intense, and the initial excitement can sometimes wear off. I’ve seen talented kids walk away from BJJ at this point, and I always wonder what could have been if they had stuck with it just a little longer.

BJJ, and martial arts in general, are not just about learning to fight. They are about learning to overcome. The sport teaches resilience, problem-solving, and discipline in a way that few other activities can. It instills a drive and commitment that carries far beyond the mats—into school, into relationships, and eventually into adulthood and careers.

I know this because I’ve lived it.

As a 40-year-old Manager of a large organization, I can confidently say that the work ethic, confidence, and leadership skills I apply daily were forged through martial arts. I have a background in professional MMA, tournament kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and the lessons I learned on the mats have shaped my success away from them. Martial arts taught me how to remain calm under pressure, how to stay disciplined even when motivation fades, and how to lead by example—qualities that are invaluable in both personal and professional life.

I urge all parents to encourage their children to stick with BJJ, especially when they hit a rough patch. Remind them of why they started, of how far they’ve come, and of the champions they have the potential to become—not just in competition, but in life.

If your child is struggling with motivation, talk to them. Let me know, and I’ll be more than happy to work with them personally. Sometimes, all it takes is a reminder of what they’re capable of to reignite that fire.

The mats at Gamefight Wakefield aren’t just a place to train—they’re a place to grow. And the journey is just getting started.