Andrea Harris
Worcester, MA, USA
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
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Biography
I began training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in October 2011. I've always been involved in sports in come way or another. I was looking for the next challenge when a co-worker invited me to come train with her. I was hooked immediately.
In September 2013 I suffered a debilitating injury, during competition, which required immediate surgery. I was completely devastated as doctors explained the healing and recovery process. I was ready to sell my gis and give up on my goal of achieving my black belt.
THREE months later I was on the mats, crutches and all, taking notes and trying to keep an upbeat positive spirit & mind. Eventually I began to drill with a brace... my teammates and Coach were extremely supportive.
NINE months later I was competing and placing third as a white belt at the IBJJF Worlds Championship in Long Beach California. Now, as a Blue Belt, I hope to return there and bring home the gold as a way to show my team how their patience and dedication toward my recovery and training not only helped my jiu jitsu, but also my spirit.
I may have begun my jiu jitsu journey a little later than most, but I still dream of being a positive role model to other women and girls in the sport, of training & competing around the World, and of reaching my Black Belt.