Why I Teach Jiu-Jitsu on the Mountain
By Sandy · Updated
I moved to Prattsville after the pandemic. I began teaching BJJ in my garage. For a time, I also made trips to teach at Clockwork Jiu Jitsu.
I now live in East Jewett year-round. I want to keep building good BJJ on the mountain. I want local people to have a place to learn, train, and share a skill.
Today, I teach at Sensei Sandy BJJ in Tannersville. Families come from nearby towns to train here.
A local place to learn
Hunter families have told me they value a place to train up here. Families from Windham have shared a similar reason for choosing us.
For them, staying on the mountain matters. They can make BJJ part of life close to home.
Some parents want to learn alongside their children. We can talk about which class fits each person. If you live near Haines Falls, Hunter, or Windham, bring your questions about the trip and the class.
Learn about your coach
I earned my BJJ belts from Josh Griffiths at Clockwork Jiu Jitsu. I hold a first-degree black belt. You can see Josh and me in this rank photo.
I have taught classes at Clockwork and other gyms. I have taught in a gi and in no-gi. A gi is the cloth uniform we use in some classes. In no-gi, we use other training clothes.
Those are parts of my teaching path. Here on the mountain, I focus on the students in front of me. I want to know what they hope to learn. Then we can work on a task that fits.
Work toward more local access
I am working to set up BJJ funded by gifts through Sensei Sandy Community Jiu Jitsu Inc.
I am in talks with Greene County and two local schools about this work. We are still making plans. Ask me how those plans are going and how you might take part in the future.
I want to keep putting time and care into the place I call home. Helping more people find a way to train is part of that work.
In class, I set a task. You try it with a partner. I ask how it feels and help you make sense of it. That is the kind of BJJ I want to grow here.
Plan a visit to Tannersville
See directions and parking before you come. You can also check the current class schedule.
Explore BJJ classes for your family, then reserve your free first visit. Come meet me, see the room, and tell me what you want to learn.