Davenport jiu-jitsu academy draws diverse community including 61-year-old black belt

Gracie Barra Davenport is fostering a diverse jiu-jitsu community that includes beginners, families, and a 61-year-old black belt, according to Yahoo Sports.

The academy owner, Fillipe Pascalicchio, explained that Brazilian jiu-jitsu emphasizes leverage, positioning, and technique, with much of the training conducted on the ground through controlled submissions like joint locks and chokes. Unlike striking martial arts, it does not involve punches or kicks.

Pascalicchio said the academy's students are mostly hobbyists, with about 98% not competing. Many adults start training for exercise or self-defense, and some parents join after bringing their children to classes. The academy recently added a women-only class to accommodate more female participants, now totaling over 30 women.

The 61-year-old black belt, Mason, shared that the training offers camaraderie, community, trust, and continuous personal evolution. He also noted his recovery from a serious bike accident, highlighting the physical and mental challenges involved.

Pascalicchio emphasized that children's classes focus on discipline, confidence, and bullying response, while adult classes promote physical challenge, concentration, and friendship development. Classes are organized by age and experience, starting with fundamentals for beginners.

The academy's approach reflects a growing interest in martial arts as a means of building connections and physical skills beyond competition.