Kogaion Academy Competes at Copa Virginia

The Kogaion Academy competition team was back in action at Copa Virginia, with strong performances from white belt Devin and purple belt Richard and plenty of support from teammates who made the trip to watch and coach.

For a small competition squad, there was a lot to celebrate: a gold medal, a silver medal, a successful return to competition after three years, and some very familiar techniques showing up exactly when they were needed.

Devin Takes Silver in Gi and Gold in No-Gi

White belt Devin had a great day across both the gi and no-gi divisions.

He started by earning second place in the gi, making it all the way to the finals before losing a close ref’s decision.

Then came no-gi and a chance for a rematch.

Devin put together an impressive run, winning his matches by scores of 2-0, 4-0, and 7-0 to take first place in the no-gi division.

Even better, his final no-gi match was against the same competitor who had beaten him in the gi final earlier that day. Devin made the adjustments, came back for the rematch, and got the win.

Going from a loss to a win against the same opponent in a matter of hours is one of the best examples of what competition can offer: immediate feedback, a chance to problem-solve, and an opportunity to test those adjustments under pressure.

Richard Returns to Competition After Three Years

Purple belt Richard also stepped back onto the competition mats for the first time in three years.

You wouldn't know it from watching him.

Richard picked up a dominant 9-0 victory and another win by ninja choke.

The submission was especially fun for the team because it came straight out of the techniques Richard had just been teaching during our Friday noon Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class.

There's something uniquely satisfying about seeing a technique go from the lesson plan on Friday to working successfully in live competition.

Richard's performance was also a great reminder that competing doesn't have to be something you do constantly. Whether it's your first tournament or your first tournament back after several years, competition is another way to test your Jiu-Jitsu, identify what works, and find areas to improve.

Competition Is a Team Effort

A huge shoutout also goes to everyone from Kogaion Academy who came out to support our competitors, including Coach Johnny.

Even when only a few athletes are competing, there's always a much bigger team behind them, training partners who helped prepare them, coaches in the corner, and teammates willing to spend their weekend mat-side cheering them on.

We're proud of Devin and Richard for representing Kogaion Academy and putting their training to the test.

If you're looking for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Arlington, VA or Alexandria, VA, Kogaion Academy offers classes for complete beginners through experienced competitors. Whether your goal is to compete, learn self-defense, get in shape, or simply become better at Jiu-Jitsu, you're welcome to come train with us.

Ready to try Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? Come visit Kogaion Academy in Shirlington and experience a class for yourself.