In this month’s blog, we had a chat with Ava Groves, a talented Jiu Jitsu fighter from EDJ School of Jiu Jitsu HQ in Corona. Recently, she took home the win at the IBJJF European Championship and also clinched victory at the IBJJF LA Open for the second time in a row. Join us as we talk to Ava about her journey and what keeps her motivated in the world of Jiu Jitsu.
How would you describe the experience of competing in another country?
✨I was very anxious to travel alone to another country. I do not have the “travel bug” as they say. I prefer to be in places I’m familiar with and if I have to be there, would prefer not to be alone. Definitely was a learning and growing experience for me.
How often do you think Jiu Jitsu matches boils down to the will to win?
✨It has a lot to do with it. If you go into a match indifferent of the outcome you will fight like it doesn’t matter because your will to win isn’t there. If you go in WANTING to win, you’ll fight like that. And if you don’t win, that’s okay because you tried. I’ve only ever been upset at a loss because I really wanted to win and fought hard.
What are your goals within the Jiu Jitsu world?
✨ My life goal is to be a Jiu Jitsu black belt under Professor JP. To be one of his black belts will be one of my greatest life accomplishments. Another goal is to work for the EDJ team as a career. I am not rushing into this role (I want more time as a student), but it is a goal of mine in whatever way we see fit for me. My short-term goal is to stay consistent, and focused in my training as I have competitions coming up!
What is your advice to someone who wants to start competing?
✨ Start with an in-house tournament. Then start with a smaller federation like JJWL where you are guaranteed two matches to know what it feels like to have to fight soon after the first. Dont expect anything. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself! If you have a game plan try to think about doing that and if something happens in the match that deters your game plan, focus on fighting the jiu jitsu to get back to what you want to do. The fact that you’re even competing is amazing. I know so many practitioners who won’t even try for fear of failure. We do this because we love it! So have fun with it! The people who love you will love you no matter what. So just keep drilling every night after training whatever your coach thinks you should be drilling and enjoy the process ?
Thank you Ava for sharing with us and for your dedication and commitment to the team!
Believe in your potential, embrace the wisdom shared by our team, and let it permeate every facet of your life. Remember, behind every victory, countless individuals are working tirelessly to see you flourish, both on and off the mat. Harness this support, channel your determination, and watch as your journey in Jiu Jitsu – and in life – unfolds with remarkable resilience. Seize each moment, embrace every challenge, and never underestimate the power of your passion. The road ahead is paved with endless possibilities; embrace it with open arms and unwavering faith.