Corey Waldin
Aug 5, 2023
“My 5 year old has been attending classes here for about a year now. The coaching staff Maria, Charlie and Prof. Bessa are all currently competing champions who know what they’re doing. They teach with patience, care and discipline. There aren’t long lectures. They teach a series of basic moves and let the kids work together on the mats to figure things out and there is always sparring. They play fun games in between the different class sections and the kids love it. There are always winners and losers in the games and sparring rounds—which I love. Effort and progress is acknowledged but these kids aren’t getting new belts or stripes every week. They’re on the same terms as the adults. I’ve watched my son go from asking me to quit every week to asking me when he can compete next and talking to me about arm bars and different ways to pass guard. I started practicing myself about a month ago at both Oregon City and Happy Valley. I’ve never taken BJJ and going from spectator to student has been eye opening. The people I’ve rolled with have become instant friends and the physical and mental benefits of learning to solve puzzles while grappling has been fun, intense and humbling. Our family has been very welcomed by Prof. Bessa and the staff. They care about their community, listen and help. It was obvious from the start that this academy is special. I don’t really want to write such a glowing review because selfishly I don’ty want it to get too crowded, but it would be unfair if those on the fence about bringing their kids or themselves don’t give it a go.”
