1 YEAR of the RAFA

A Year of Transformation: Celebrating Coach Rafa at Dino Jiu Jitsu

Rafa’s rist class at Dino.

When we first opened the doors of Dino Jiu Jitsu, there was this euphoric excitement about creating something special. We had a vision of a thriving community, a place where passion for jiu-jitsu would flourish. But as with any journey, we faced our share of challenges and setbacks that made that initial dream feel a bit distant.

Enter Coach Rafa. From the moment he started coaching, everything changed. It was as if the gym was reset, and suddenly, that feeling we had always dreamed of was right there, alive and real. Rafa’s passion for jiu-jitsu, his professionalism, and the genuine care he shows for every student turned our gym into the community we always hoped it would be.

One of the most touching moments that stands out is how quickly he connected with the kids. From fixing a young student’s hair after class to always showing gratitude to the parents, he brought a warmth and positivity that truly transformed the atmosphere. The kids adore him, and the parents trust him, which has made all the difference.

On a personal level, having Rafa on board has been a game changer. It’s given me peace of mind knowing that our students are in great hands and that the gym’s future is brighter than ever. It feels like we finally have all the pieces in place: Rafa leading with his jiu-jitsu expertise, Marie focusing on the kids, Tim supporting the team, and me handling the business side. Together, we’re making the gym everything we always envisioned.

Here’s to many more years of growth, community, and amazing memories with Coach Rafa at Dino Jiu Jitsu!