Ray Casias

As a lifelong martial artist and competitor, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). From my first class to earning my black belt, every stage of my training has shaped not just my techniques but also my mindset. However, I have noticed a troubling trend in many…

Embarking on a journey in martial arts can be a transformative experience that extends far beyond physical training. As a business owner, instructor, mentor, and a man of faith, I have seen firsthand the many dimensions of personal growth that this path can facilitate. As you step into my martial…

Stepping onto the mats in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is not just about physical movements and techniques; it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and mental resilience. For many grapplers, including myself, the practice of carrying a notebook to the gym has become essential in our BJJ experience. As…

Hello, parents and instructors! My name is Coach Ray, and I’ve had the privilege of being the lead instructor for our kids’ martial arts program for the past 15 years. During this time, I’ve taught kids ranging from 3 to 18 years old. Through trial and error, mistakes, and listening…

This past week, I had the privilege of traveling to California to compete in the International Master Worlds and coach one of our students in the same tournament, along with three of our students in the Adult Master Worlds. This event is a highlight of my year for my adult…

In the dynamic and diverse world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), the essence of martial arts often seems overshadowed by the pursuit of technical mastery and competitive success. While these aspects are undeniably important, there is a deeper layer to BJJ that revolves around the martial art code—principles that shape not…

As someone deeply entrenched in the world of martial arts, particularly Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), I can attest to its transformative power. With a lifetime of experience and the privilege of training elite soldiers, I’ve witnessed firsthand how BJJ serves as a cornerstone for self-defense skills and confidence building. However,…

As a kids’ instructor in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of this martial art for children aged 3 to 5 years old. It’s not about creating world champions or prodigies at this young age; rather, it’s about nurturing their development in a fun and engaging way.…

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an intricate martial art requiring dedication and perseverance. As a BJJ coach, I’ve witnessed countless students transform through disciplined training and active listening. Yet, it’s disheartening when athletes become uncoachable, hindering their progress in the sport. Being coachable in BJJ transcends beyond physical training. It’s about a…

As I sit down to reflect on my journey in the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, I am struck by the evolution of my goals over the years. Each decade has brought its own set of challenges, triumphs, and transformations, molding me into the person I am today. In my…