At Renzo Gracie Clarksville, we are privileged to have a team of dedicated and accomplished coaches. One such remarkable individual is Sensei Brinna Lavelle, whose dedication to martial arts and her community is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Beginnings and Family Influence
Brinna Lavelle’s journey in martial arts began when she was just 3 years old. Her family moved to Clarksville, TN, when her father, Sensei Dave, was stationed at Fort Campbell, KY. Sensei Dave, a martial artist himself, introduced young Brinna to Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. This early start laid the foundation for what would become an illustrious career in martial arts.
A Distinguished Martial Arts Career
Now 26 years old, Brinna boasts 23 years of experience in Judo and Jiu Jitsu. She holds a black belt in Judo and a brown belt in Jiu Jitsu, testaments to her skill and dedication. Her achievements in Judo are particularly notable:
- 15x Tennessee State Judo Champion
- 2x Collegiate All-American in Judo
- 2x Junior National Champion
- Senior National Champion (2021)
- 2021 Outstanding Female Competitor by the United States Judo Association
For three consecutive years, Brinna was ranked #2 in the U.S. for the 52kg weight class, highlighting her consistency and excellence in the sport. Her collegiate career saw her representing the U.S. at the FISU America Games (2018) and the Collegiate World University Games (2019), further cementing her status as a top-tier competitor.
Academic and Professional Pursuits
Brinna’s dedication extends beyond the dojo. She attended Austin Peay State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Recently, she graduated from Auburn University with a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine, showcasing her commitment to academic excellence and her passion for animal care.
Personal Life and Contributions to Renzo Gracie Clarksville
Brinna’s personal life is as vibrant as her professional one. She is set to wed Coach A.J. Carter later this year, a union that is sure to be celebrated by the entire Renzo Gracie Clarksville community. Brinna’s personality shines both on and off the mat, and her enthusiasm for Judo and Jiu Jitsu is infectious.
Together with her father, Sensei Dave, and Sensei Charlene, Brinna leads our Judo Program and Judo Competition team. Her wealth of experience and passion for teaching make her an invaluable asset to our dojo.
Celebrating Sensei Brinna Lavelle
We are incredibly fortunate to have Sensei Brinna Lavelle as part of our team. Her achievements, both on and off the mats, are a source of inspiration for everyone at Renzo Gracie Clarksville. Join us in celebrating Brinna for her outstanding contributions and for the positive impact she continues to make in our community.
Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or new to the sport, Brinna’s guidance and expertise are sure to enhance your training experience. We look forward to many more years of learning and growing under her mentorship. Thank you, Sensei Brinna, for all you do!
