WHITE School of Jiu-Jitsu

There are certain phrases one might eventually learn as they advance in the ranks of Jiu-Jitsu in addition to mighty techniques and infallible positions. Famous of them, the first thing one hears after their recent defeat in competition: "either win or learn". As if suggesting that one could only learn after a loss...

📸 Ron White promptly reflecting on his shortcomings while securing the gold medal in IBJJF Budapest International Open Championship, Master 2, Brown Belt, Heavyweight, Final. Budapest, Hungary | March 2019

Some might enter Jiu-Jitsu competitions to feel the pressure, the grind as they yearn for such feelings in their day to day lives. Some, on the other hand, find a strange comfort in confrontation as they go thru each match in the bracket. While being victorious, one might not seem as happy as normally expected, more heartbroken than the losing party with a certain look on their face. Perhaps because even when they are winning in the end they know that the game is over.

📸 Remi White advancing to the last match during Cyprus Open Championship, Adult, White Belt, Open Class, Semi-Final. Nicosia, Cyprus | April 2018 credit Stelios Modestou.

Jiu-Jitsu competition is an opportunity to create an artificial environment of stress. Although every round has a time limit, the danger feels very real and imminent when one steps on the mat facing a worthy opponent until the referee signals the end. While many seek for a rival to compare against and to get crowned as champions on occasion; only a few competes with a familiar opponent they faced every day: themselves.

📸 Ron White defending an attack from the back during All-Stars BJJ Midlands Pro Championship, Master 1, Brown Belt, Quarter Final. Coventry, UK | August 2021 credit RJD Media

Life is not a smooth ride, it is full of ups and downs, one should be comfortable enough to notice the opportunities when their back is pinned against the ground. Jiu-Jitsu Guard is a unique situation, allowing one to control the pace while on the bottom of the exchange. Contrary to its name, the guard is a dynamic position that leads to a broad range of attacks and reversals.

📸 Remi White seeking a submission opportunity while controlling the opponent. IBJJF Budapest International Open No-Gi Championship, Blue Belt, Open Class, Semi-Final. Budapest, Hungary | March 2019 credit IBJJF

Healthy children engage with the world in a straightforward manner. The very best of them are the ones with no hidden agenda, they communicate clearly and never hide their emotions no matter how embarrassing it might be at times. One must spend a very long time with them only to realise all the righteous qualities of life are exist in them. This simplifies the adult's job; do your best to maintain what's already there.

📸 Tabiyeva sisters practising positional control under the guidance of Ron White. Trikomo, Cyprus | July 2017

Jiu-Jitsu offers a unique perspective into an individual's persona. Without a doubt, the journey to enlightenment is never-ending, and one must fully expose themself to intimately appreciate their adversary. Concealing the true self behind a fragile facade often gives a false sense of security like living in a cave. Ultimately only a strong mind favours being out in the open: simple, sturdy and true!

📸 Ron & Remi White rolling on the wooden floor during COVID-19 lockdown. Leicester, UK | April 2020