13/09/2026
Yesterday at the Scottish BJJ Open, we took two of our kids to compete — Lewis and Lucy.
Lewis originally joined our Kids Beginners Block before having to leave when his football club changed days and clashed with our classes.
Recognising his potential and work ethic, our kids coaches invited him back to the adults class, where he has absolutely flourished.
Yesterday was his first competition. With very little experience — and having never even attended a NoGi class — he stepped onto the mat with the same determination and grit he brings to the adults class.
He won his first NoGi match and was unlucky to lose his next two in very close contests against much more experienced opponent, earning himself a well-deserved Silver medal.
Unfortunately, his other opponent didn't turn up, so Lewis didn't get the opportunity to compete in Gi.
I can't wait to see him compete again. He's gained valuable experience and I have no doubt he'll be even better next time.
Lucy was competing for the first time since being awarded her Yellow/White belt, facing Codi, who she has competed against before.
Codi, her dad Derek and her coach Aiden are all absolute class acts, and people I always enjoy spending time with at competitions.
Going into yesterday, all I wanted from Lucy was to work on the mental side of her game — being patient, controlling her emotions and staying composed.
She completely outdid herself.
Double Gold after six hard-fought matches with Codi. 🥇🥇
Their matches were full of exciting back-and-forth exchanges and were fantastic to watch.
For me, Lucy's final two matches were the highlight and possibly the best two rounds I've seen her put together on the mat.
Composed. Controlled. Patient.
Exactly what we'd been working on.
Watching kids grow, mature and develop both as BJJ players and young people is one of the best things about being a coach.
It isn't always an easy journey, but seeing that hard work come together on the mat makes it all worthwhile.
Well done Lucy and Lewis.
You did yourselves, your families and your club incredibly proud yesterday.
And from me personally — I was so impressed by you both. ❤️
This is only the beginning. 🥋
