December 4, 2023
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This past Saturday, Renzo Gracie Clarksville wasn’t just a martial arts academy; it was a stage for pure Jiu-Jitsu magic. Fourteen brave souls ascended to the coveted blue belt, while three each reached purple and brown, and two others grasped the pinnacle: the black belt.
Professor James Hoskins later reflected, “What a monumental and emotional day!” He commended the students’ dedication, the countless hours of mat time, the bruises and triumphs that led them to this pivotal moment. It was more than just promotions; it was a testament to the power of community, forged in sweat, respect, and the shared love for the gentle art.
Head Professor Andrew Hansen echoed this sentiment. “What a cool day,” he beamed, his eyes glistening with pride. “I’m so proud of each and every one of you. This is why I do what I do.” He saw not just individual achievements, but a vibrant tapestry woven from shared passion and unwavering spirit.
And the passion wasn’t contained within the academy walls. Professors Reginaldo Almeida and Eddie Bastos, pillars of Renzo Gracie Tennessee, graced the event with their presence. Their support resonated deeply, a reminder that “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
As the promotions unfolded, the air crackled with a mix of nervous excitement and pure joy. Each name called was a victory cry, a celebration of countless battles won, both internal and external. Duvien Garcia, Marshall Liddle, and Chad Camp rose to purple, their faces aglow with accomplishment. Travis Israel, Musa Redick, and Jason Williams followed suit, their spirits soaring with their brown belts tied around their waists.
But the room truly erupted when Dave Powell and Christian Arellano’s names were called for black belt. The thunderous applause spoke volumes, a symphony of respect, admiration, and the shared thrill of witnessing a dream come true.
Professor Hansen, later addressed Team RGC on social media, “a plethora of blue belts…this is what it’s all about,” he declared. “Building a strong community, pushing each other to new heights, and celebrating every victory along the way.” Envisioning a future brimming with amazing Renzo Gracie students, Hansen continued, “Congratulations to everyone who leveled up today…OSS!”
As the final belt was tied, a collective sigh of contentment filled the academy. It was a day that would be etched in the hearts of everyone present, a day that solidified Renzo Gracie Clarksville not just as a place to train, but as a family, bound by the gentle art and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
And so, the legend of Renzo Gracie Clarksville continues to grow, one promotion, one shared victory at a time. Let’s keep pushing each other, supporting each other, and growing together, connected by a shared passion for Jiu-Jitsu and the unwavering pursuit of Be. Do. Push.
Promotion List
Black Belt
- Dave Powell
- Christian Arellano
Brown Belt
- Musa Redick
- Jason Williams
- Travis Israel
Purple Belt
- Duvien Garcia
- Chad Camp
- Marshall Liddle
Blue Belt
- Armond Carter
- Calvin Gale
- Charlene Sekiya
- Christopher Ward
- James Gross
- Jonathan Hall
- Matthew Masonheimer
- Michael Lansanta
- Nathan Watts
- Nick Johnson
- Stephen Molzer
- Stetson Humphries
- Tyler Johnson
- Dakotah Hayes
