Initially shocked and nervous upon receiving his practice schedule, he soon found himself hooked after his first judo class. This unexpected start led him to join the New York Athletic Club and the Judo National Team FORCE in the USA.

Coaching and Training

Under the guidance of national coach Jimmy Pedro, he has honed his skills and achieved remarkable success. He is part of Jimmy Pedro's Team FORCE, a full-time resident training program for judoka. The program focuses on results, civic responsibility, and education.

Achievements and Milestones

In May 2016, he became the first male judoka from the USA to win a gold medal in the World Judo Masters competition. He clinched the -81kg division title at the World Judo Masters tournament held in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Jiu-Jitsu Expertise

A black belt in jiu-jitsu, he discovered this sport during a break from judo in 2012 due to a foot injury. He realised that while Brazilian jiu-jitsu techniques do not directly transfer to judo, they boost his confidence significantly.

Personal Interests

Outside of judo, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and carpentry. These hobbies provide a balance to his rigorous training schedule and offer a way to unwind.

Injuries and Recovery

He faced a knee injury in 2015 but managed to recover and continue competing at high levels. His resilience is evident in his ability to bounce back from injuries and maintain peak performance.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, he aims to continue competing at international levels and bring more accolades to his name and country. His dedication to both judo and jiu-jitsu showcases his commitment to martial arts.

This athlete's journey from an accidental start to becoming a national champion is inspiring. His story highlights the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and passion in achieving success in sports.