Last week I had the pleasure of being sponsored by AGIG to fly up to Sydney with Jess, Alex and Lucy. Kirsty was a great host and put us all up for 3 days, which is a big ask of anyone (because we are a crazy bunch).

We were there to attend NSW’s first AGIG event, organised by Jess Fraser. The event was held at Legacy Martial Arts and a very special mention goes to Legacy’s resident coach and a black belt legend Thiago Braga. He gave us the space and the time, taught 1 hour seminar and helped out with rolling.

@ Joel Vogler Photography

@ Joel Vogler Photography

40 women turned up all from different academies and affiliations. The vibe on the mat was incredible – everyone was super friendly and welcoming. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of blue belts present, but even more importantly; there were 6 purple belts and a brown belt in Philipa Kato.

@Joel Vogler Photography

Mat Hair @Joel Vogler Photography

However, the best moment for me was definitely seeing so many young girls on the mat. There were at least 10 ladies from the ages of 10-15 and they absolutely rocked.

I got to drill and practice techniques with a future star Kendall, who picked up all the little details much quicker than me, and put me to shame. I am super impressed with this young lady.

These girls are the future of Australian Jiu Jitsu and are already pretty damn good at it. I can’t wait to see them grow up and become total BJJ beasts.

Kendall @Joel Vogler Photography

Kendall @Joel Vogler Photography

Kendall @Joel Vogler Photography

Little Ninja Nicole

It was lovely to share a beer in the sun afterwards and meet some of the girls (sadly I didn’t get around to everyone).

Sunday proved to be another exciting day. Kirsty took us out for a lovely breakfast at Coogee Beach and then we headed to Jess’ Self Defence Seminar to raise funds for White Ribbon Organisation.

Brekkie at Coogee Beach

Yet again, there was a great turn out and I got more than I imagined out of Jess’ 3 hour seminar. We learnt avoidance and self-defence techniques as well as how to minimise risk of ever getting attacked. It was a touching seminar and for such a great cause. To donate click here: https://www.whiteribbon.org.au/donate/wrn and add Australian Girls In Gi as your organisation.

@Joel Vogler Photography

@Joel Vogler Photography

@Joel Vogler Photography

After the Seminar we had a few hours to spare before the flight home, and there was no better way to spend it than at on open mat at Legacy. I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face after 1.5 hours of rounds. Again, massive thanks to Thiago for opening up his doors to us, rolling with us, teaching and being a such a good sport.

Women’s BJJ in NSW is BIG and growing every minute. There are so many great ladies and there is a real sense of community.

Thank you to AGIG for making this weekend happen. I took away so many positives, met wonderful people, shared some amazing stories, caught up with old friends, made some new ones and got to do what I love best – jiu jitsu!

PS. Check out Joel Vogler Photography. Joel did an amazing job capturing the spirit of the weekend.