01/02/2026
This year marks 9 years that the Holy Grail has been open and yesterday I had the privilege to promote my 6th and 7th black belts. (That makes 8 HG black belts including me) Quan and Matt are my first students that came to me as white belts and have received all of their belt ranks from me. (Although Matt had some wrestling exp when he came in) •
•
Matt Bizzell is a great friend and coach that runs our 6am program year round. His work with the morning crew speaks volumes as to his skill on the mats, and is only exceeded by his intensity in rolls. He is really a blessing to the team and a good friend. I couldn’t be more proud of his hard work and pouring himself out for his teammates in the morning. To improve oneself is admirable, but to seek the wellbeing of others is divine. The Holy Grail, and indeed my own jiujitsu, would not be the same without Matt.•
•
Quan on the other hand is a menace! I remember him coming in initially and thinking this guy isn’t serious and likely won’t stick it out. I couldn’t have been more in error. Quan has grown into one of the most dangerous rolls in the gym. He has sharpened me immensely in our rounds, he has pursued more knowledge beyond class, especially in wrestling, of which even I have benefited, and he’s caught me more times that I’d care to admit! He is a patient, encouraging, and strong leader on the mats. I can count on him to help his teammates, especially welcoming new students in with open arms and a tight choke! Again the Grail, and my life, would be far emptier without him in it. •
•
The Lord Jesus Christ must be praised in all of this. He has been overwhelmingly gracious to me, and like Joseph, His blessings have flowed out to everyone around me. Not for my own goodness or virtue, God knows I lack so much and fail each day to do what He requires. But His grace and mercy hunt me down, the lines have fallen for me in pleasant places. •
•
What a great way to start the New Year! We look forward to the challenges as well as growth that God has laid before us this year, and I cannot wait to see what these two do going forward. One thing is for sure, iron sharpens iron. ⚔️•
