West County Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Club

BJJ STORIES 💥
Spotlight on Andre -those in the community will recognize him as one of the dedicated purple belts and kids coach. This is his BJJ story.

After thinking about training Jiu Jitsu for years, Andre finally took the leap in 2020-2021 and immediately found the positive atmosphere he was looking for at West County BJJ.

Andre's martial arts journey began with Taekwondo at age 5. He trained until age 11, reaching the rank of red belt - and on the track to black belt - before life circumstances pulled him away from martial arts. Still, he always missed the growth, discipline, and camaraderie that training provided.

Reflecting on what brought him back to martial arts, Andre shared:
"I always craved that same growth I experienced as a kid. I missed the camaraderie, discipline, and self-motivation that martial arts offered. It taught me the rewards of respect and humbleness, and that ultimately led me to try BJJ. One of the greatest decisions I've made!"

Since starting BJJ, Andre has earned his purple belt (November 2025) and the goal is to keep at it and attain a black belt.

When asked what he loves most about Jiu Jitsu, he said:

"Although Jiu Jitsu can be demanding and one of the toughest challenges a sport can offer, it is incredibly rewarding. It's a constant self-challenge, and your teammates contribute to your success. Sometimes you learn a technique, forget about it, and months later your body remembers and you pull it off without realizing you could. It's a beautiful feeling and a chance to appreciate yourself through hard work."
Andre is also a valued member of the kids coaching team.

"Teaching the kids classes has become something I look forward to. I love seeing the growth, trust, friendship, and self-confidence that develop through training. Watching the higher belts help motivate the beginners is amazing, and I have the privilege of seeing these kids evolve every time I teach."

Anyone who has trained with Andre knows the positivity, encouragement, and dedication he brings to the mats.

Thank you for your awesome contributions Andre!

Awesome training in Jake’s Tuesday evening adult classes - advanced 6:15-7pm, fundamentals 7-8pm.

Tuesday kid class - training, rolling, and two new belts! A big congratulations to Roman and Tori!

Awesome energy in the Thursday kids and adult classes! Congratulations Connor on his stripe!

Women’s class Summer Update - 3 special classes in June.

There will be no women’s BJJ classes the first two weeks of June, but there WILL be women’s classes on Tuesdays (11am - 12:30pm) June 16th, June 23d, and June 30th before Melissa travels and these classes will be paused for a while. This is a fabulous time to drop in and give Brazilian Jiu Jitsu a try for free. All levels welcome.

BJJ STORIES 💥
Spotlight on Amber - one of West County BJJ’s badass brown belts.

Amber began training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2014. When asked why she started and what she loves about it, her answers were straight to the point: “Because it’s fun.”
And what does she like about BJJ?“EVERYTHING!”

Over the years, Amber has remained a steady presence on the mats through major life transitions, work, pregnancy, and motherhood, all while continuing to evolve in her training.

When asked what keeps her coming back, Amber shared: “I keep training for myself. BJJ is incredibly important to me. It’s my recharge and me time. I’m just Amber on the mats. Not mom.”

And her family understands how important that time is for her. “My family has helped me. We’ve all committed to mommy training two days a week.”
Her kids are now 4 years old and 1.5 years old 💙

When asked why she trains specifically at West County BJJ, Amber answered: “Great family community. Sea full of sharks🦈."

P.S. It is absolutely wonderful training with you, Amber! ✨

Wednesday no-gi class with Stefan. Stefan is an excellent instructor and highly experienced grappler who knows how to help you fine-tune your technique and elevate your game. Awesome training and great details throughout. 💥

Action shots from Jake's Tuesday night class. Thanks Nick!

STRIPES!!!! Congratulations Angela, Victoria, Kevin, Froy, and Tommy for the additional stripes added to your belts last night! 🙌🙌🙌