By Alesha Capone
Four young students from a Wyndham Vale martial arts school have all won medals at the Victorian Jiu Jitsu State Championship.
Brothers Mason, 10, and Jax, 8, won silver and gold respectively in their weight and age divisions of the competition, which was held earlier this month at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC).
Casseus, 15, and Nathaniel, 16, also won bronze medals in their divisions.
All four medal-winners study Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at Kaizen Martial Arts, which is run under the guidance of head instructor Sensei Garry Kewish.
Mason, who is a grey belt, said he took up the sport about three years ago.
The talented young athlete said he “very much” enjoys Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and trains five times per week.
“I think it’s not just about the sport, it’s about getting to know new people and make new friends, and it’s also good for your self-confidence,” he said.
Mason said that the MSAC event was his first state-level competition.
“I felt a bit proud of myself at the state championships, because it was a big thing to win silver,” he added.
“Also, I don’t like to brag, but I have been in some local competitions and won gold in a couple of them.”
Mason said he would like to become a professional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructor in the future.
He and Jax already coach some of the younger pupils, who are aged between four to six years old, at Kaizen Martial Arts.
“I enjoy helping others learn, achieve more and I also like to help people to grow,” Mason said.
Mason said he would potentially take part in the national Jiu Jitsu championships, which will be held later this year.
