If I could talk to a younger Thomas, I’d tell him this:

Jiu Jitsu is a long road, and it’s not meant to be perfect. There’s no finish line you suddenly cross where everything clicks forever. Some days feel great, others feel frustrating and that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be.

I’d remind him that submissions aren’t the goal. They’re a byproduct of doing the right things well, position, control, patience, and timing. You don’t need to win every round to be moving forward. In fact, chasing wins too hard often slows real progress.

Every round is a lesson, whether you’re on top, on bottom, tapping, or doing the tapping. But those lessons only show themselves if you stay open-minded, curious, and willing to learn, especially when things don’t go your way.

Trust the process. Show up. Be patient. Progress will take care of itself.

Great question Peter Thanos You guys already know I’m a total Jiu Jitsu nerd. I love studying instructionals, breaking down movements, concepts, and techniques. But more than anything, I love working with my students one-on-one, dissecting specific situations, and helping them move forward on their own journey.

Yoda art is to be discovered 

 Very specific. I like it. Let’s develop a plan to make you successful 👊🏻

As a Jiu Jitsu instructor, I’ve never been big on New Year’s resolutions, but I strongly believe in setting clear goals as part of continuous growth and improvement. Progress in Jiu Jitsu doesn’t come from a calendar date, it comes from consistent effort and reflection.

This year, I’m making a conscious effort to connect with each team member individually and to be more available for my students. Building those relationships is just as important as what happens during training.

From a Jiu Jitsu perspective, I’m also focused on refining my own teaching and understanding of the art. I’m currently developing instructional systems centered around specific topics, designed to simplify learning and create clearer pathways for progress. Those will be released later this year, and my goal is for them to add real value to our students’ development on and off the mats.

This is a very good question! 

As a Jiu Jitsu instructor, I see this often, and the key is understanding NOT pressure. When a child or student doesn’t want to train, start by asking WHY. Fatigue, frustration, or a drop in confidence are usually the real reasons, not a lack of interest.

Open communication with coaches and instructors is very important. Sharing concerns early allows us to adjust training, provide support, and keep the experience positive.

Shift the focus away from winning or being good and toward effort, consistency, and small improvements. Giving one simple goal per class helps success feel achievable.

Private lessons are a powerful tool as well. They offer individual attention, build confidence, and allow students to progress at their own pace, often reigniting motivation.

Encourage ownership and social connection, and above all keep Jiu Jitsu positive. When students feel safe, supported, and capable, motivation naturally follows.

That’s a good question. Why am I not at your class 🤔 

If I had to choose one guard, it would be the lasso. While there’s nothing unconventional about it, at least in my book, I’ve consistently found it to be highly effective.

Let’s finish 2025 strong 💪🏻