Life, the Universe, and almost everything jujitsu

The Meerkat had to attend a days coaching seminar to earn his next level of coaching badges. But what I thought was a necessary chore ended up being a delightfully entertaining audience with none other than the man who founded our style of JJ. With over 50 years practising and teaching jujitsu, this man has definitely seen it all – and more.

The seminar was aimed at instructors and those thinking of instructing. The content was a list of do’s and don’ts approved by the BJJA-GB (governing body). What it turned out to be, was a series of personal anecdotes and memoirs by the great man himself. A lot of it funny, some of it poignant – for example, he went through two divorces and lost touch (or fell out with) with his kids and grandchildren – all because of JJ. There was a lot of content about the correct way to deal with vulnerable people – and the not correct way to deal with them. Whatever mistakes have been made in the past, they were usually done by him in the first place and he was there to offer us his advise and wisdom.

It is clear, when you hear from someone who has dedicated his life entirely to one activity, how much personal sacrifice has been involved. But he was happy to point out that JJ offers so much too, such as meeting new friends and partners, progression and personal development, and, maybe, a little extra income if you are lucky too.
The seminar was a humbling and honest account of a life in JJ. It gives people like me, a useful guide for the future. JJ means so much to so many people. I am happy to be a part of the family.