Jujitsu anyone? One of the country’s best teenage competitors in Brazilian jujitsu. Competed in California last weekend at U.S. Open in the sport that places a large emphasis on ground fighting and grappling.
Puts up a fight: Also enjoys “ultimate fighting,” a no-holds-barred sport that combines several disciplines, such as wrestling, boxing and Brazilian jujitsu. Knows when and where to practice. “I have never had a fight outside of the sport. I try to talk through problems.”
Sharp young mind: Set to graduate at age 16 with a grade point above 3.8. Schedule includes physics and calculus. “I really love math. Math is my favorite subject. I just like looking at and working with numbers.”
Finding a balance: Trains two nights a week at a Seattle Brazilian jujitsu academy and other days at home. Does homework before and afterward, sometimes after midnight.
Future plans: Will apply to University of Washington with a goal of majoring in computer science. Also interested in studying sports medicine and massage.
Training others: Taught self-defense course last summer to children and adults in Darrington. Has helped train soldiers from Fort Lewis under the direction of his Brazilian jujitsu academy.
Loving the Led: Plays electric guitar. Favorite song to play is Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway To Heaven.”
Country living: Loves growing up in Darrington, particularly swimming and floating the rivers during the summer. He and a friend also make a “polar bear” dip into the icy river each winter. “It’s great living up here. It’s peaceful. I don’t have to worry about the hustle and bustle. It reflects who I am.”
Perceptions on Darrington: “I don’t think people realize how nonhick we really are.”
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