I started training in 2008 as a hobby, not taking it too seriously. In 2010, I my mindset changed and I went full force into jiu-jitsu, training nearly every day. I quit my career, and opened my own academy, Grapple Academy Martial Arts, in 2014, as an affiliate of Baltimore BJJ, where I was previously and concurrently training, often doing two-a-days. In 2016, I caught the competition bug and coaching bug, which lasted until 2019. COVID slowed the academy down, and really lowered the attendance of local tournaments. Since then, I've been focused on growing the academy and motivating my students and friends. In 2021, I earned my black bet from Phil Migliarese, the head of Team Balance, along with Lee Synkowski and Brian Shealey, my black belt instructors at Baltimore BJJ. I soon followed in my instructors footsteps and Grapple Academy became an affiliate of Team Balance as well! I now teach classes for Little Ninja's (ages 3-5), Youth BJJ (ages 6-10), Tween/Teen BJJ (ages 11-15), and Adult BJJ (ages 16+). Grapple Academy Martial Arts, known as GAMA is located in Perry Hall, MD, Baltimore County.