The coaches say they are elated to be part of this historic journey since it began in 2009.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

As the 15th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship (ADWPJJC) draws near, coaches are effusive in their praise for the world-class organisation of the event, underlining its status as a premier destination for international athletes.

The coaches, who have witnessed the remarkable evolution of the championship firsthand, said they are elated to be part of this historic journey since it began in 2009.

Under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council, the championship is set to unfold at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City from November 1 to 10, hosting over 7,000 male and female athletes representing more than 127 countries.

Julio Cesar Pereira, prominent jiu-jitsu instructor and founder of GF Team (Grappling Fight Team), based in Bairro do Meier, Rio de Janeiro, said the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is of great importance for the academy and its athletes.

He added, “Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is the best event in the world of jiu-jitsu. It’s the stage where we chase not only victory but the awards that symbolise the culmination of our hard work and commitment.”

“This championship represents the pinnacle of our sport, where competitors from all corners of the globe come together to celebrate the art of jiu-jitsu. It's the ultimate test of skill, character, and dedication, making it the most prestigious event in our journey as martial artists.”

Iuri Alves, Head Coach of the Baniyas Jiu-Jitsu Club, lauds it as one of the most significant global competitions. He said, “People from around the world closely follow this event, and the global jiu-jitsu community is equally attentive.”

Alves underscores that despite the hardships, athletes ensure their presence at the event, underscoring its profound significance. “They dedicate their lives to these competitions because they garner substantial recognition, making this event incredibly meaningful for them.”

Alves mentioned that Baniyas athletes are getting ready for the ADWPJJC every day. “I like to joke with them (athletes) during training, saying that every day in our training is like the World Pro finals, so they always remain ready.”

Alves emphasised the enormous support that sports receive in the UAE, saying, “It’s truly exceptional when your country stands behind you, and the UAE lives and breathes jiu-jitsu daily. This is what sets it apart from the rest of the world.”

Pedro Damasceno, Technical Project Manager at Palms Sports and Head Coach of Team 777 shared similar sentiments.  He said, “An event of this calibre and prestige is a dream come true for athletes worldwide.”

Damasceno underscores that the Palms Sports Team 777 is fully prepared for this challenge, with athletes putting in relentless effort throughout the year.

He added, “This year, we are aiming for strong results in the Under-18 category. Our team comprises new fighters, with 90% of them joining the club in January 2023. Inshallah, we aim to secure a place among the top 5 teams in the Abu Dhabi World professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship.”

“I’ve been in the UAE since 2009, serving as a coach in schools and the Al Ain Club. I attended the second edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, and since then, I’ve witnessed significant advancements in UAE athletes. Every year, we see a growing number of competitors in all divisions, even in the black belt category. It’s like a dream for me to have been part of this journey from the beginning. I always strive to contribute to the development of jiu-jitsu in the UAE.”