At NTMMA, we have a Jr. Black Belt program. It is not a BJJ Black Belt. But it is a way to recognize the diligent work a small few of our young students. This is the short writing assignment from NTMMA’s newest Jr. Black Belt, Billy Von Ehr, age 14.
First I would like to thank Coach Tery for allowing me to test even though I did not get this essay done on time and I would also like to thank all my current and past coaches for teaching me and helping me get to the rank I am now. Jiu Jitsu has changed my life in many ways. Before I did Jiu Jitsu I did football and swimming but neither sport really stuck. I always wanted to learn new things and I never really liked it when I had to do the same things over and over again but Jiu Jitsu always has something to learn or a technique to try. Jiu Jitsu has also given me a better sense of community because even though this is an individual sport training with you all makes us a team and I personally enjoy helping my fellow teammates figure things out. Jiu Jitsu has also taught me how to think quickly, especially in a competition where you have to switch plans quickly depending on what your opponent does. But most importantly it has taught me what to do if I get into a bad situation. I do plan on keeping up with Jiu Jitsu even after getting my black belt I hope you all do the same.
