Adrian’s First BJJ Competition
When Jiu Jitsu Became Part of Our Homeschool Journey
One of my favorite parts of homeschooling is how it allows us to shape learning around our kids. Their needs, their strengths, and their interests. For us, education isn’t just about books and worksheets; it’s about helping our boys grow into confident, capable, and curious people. That’s how jiu jitsu became a part of our homeschool journey.
Last year, Adrian’s occupational therapist suggested we look into jiu jitsu or karate since both involve a lot of body awareness. We decided to give jiu jitsu a try, and now, a little over a year later, it’s become such a special part of our homeschool rhythm and family life.
One day before class, Adrian was looking at the medals hanging on the wall and said, “I want one of those.” I told him, “To get one, you have to compete.” Without hesitation, he said, “Then I want to compete.” I thought it was just a passing thought, but a few weeks later, his coach announced that the Revolution 58 tournament was coming up and encouraged new students to give it a try. Adrian ran up to us after class, full of excitement, and said, “Sign me up!”
I know nothing about jiu jitsu tournaments. But Adrian started training harder, showing more focus and determination in the weeks leading up to the event. I worried that if he lost, he might get discouraged and not want to do it again… but I couldn’t have been more wrong.
On the day of the competition, our family came out to support him. His coaches and other parents from the gym were amazing. Helping us navigate where to go for weigh-ins and explaining that once Adrian crossed into that section, he had to stay there until it was his turn. I thought he might get nervous or scared being away from us, but instead, he had the biggest smile on his face.
When it was finally his turn, his coach walked him up to the mat. Adrian was still smiling — full of energy and confidence. As soon as the match started, he pulled his opponent straight down and gave it everything he had. The match lasted about three minutes, and he lost by just one point. Even though he didn’t win that round, he walked off still smiling, proud of how hard he worked.
Then came his second match. Adrian won by submission an arm bar! The joy on his face said it all. He was so proud of himself, and so were we.
Even though he lost one and won one, Adrian told us afterward that he wants to keep competing so he can earn a medal of his own. Watching him push himself, face challenges head-on, and find joy in the process reminded me exactly why we love homeschooling. We get to nurture his confidence and curiosity in ways that go far beyond a traditional classroom.
Jiu jitsu has become more than just a sport for Adrian, it’s taught him focus, discipline, and resilience. And for us, it’s been a beautiful reminder that homeschooling gives our children the space to grow not only academically but also personally and emotionally, one small victory at a time.
